how does this wallet compare with the Slimmy wallet?

Hey Monjy, we're not super familiar with Slimmy wallets but they look to us like an entirely different, while equally slim, alternative. Hope you find a wallet to suit your needs! The Bellroy Team

Which is the softer leather, blue steel or slate?

I believe on this wallet, both colors are their naked leathers, and they are both vegetable tanned, so they should feel the same. Their leathers are very soft to the touch. Sort of the opposite approach as say, a saddleback wallet, which feel like raw cowhide. It's a preference thing. Since I don't live in texas and ride horses, i prefer the bellroys.

I really want this slim sleeve bifold wallet but does it provide rfid protection?

Thanks for your interest! The Leather Slim Sleeve doesn't offer RFID protection so you may want to consider the woven version in Lichen Grey. If you really want the leather version, you can buy small sleeve inserts that you can wrap your cards in. Because the material is thin, these pouches will fit in the storage section of most Bellroy styles. Simply search ‘RFID Sleeve’ and review the many options available. Hope this helps!

What is the best way to care for this wallet to preserve the color and overall quality?

Hi there, Thanks for reaching out! Bellroy’s craft leather wallets are designed to wear in but can be restored pretty well using an all-natural leather conditioner (as mentioned by Bill). A coat or two can help smooth out most surface nicks or scratches. If you'd like your wallet to look newer for longer, we recommend choosing one of our dressed leathers (available in Black, Java, Slate or Mocha). Hope that helps! For more information you can contact Bellroy directly.