The leather and fetish scene has its own culture, codes, and venues. Here's what you need to know before your first visit.
Types of Venues
- Leather bars: Social spaces focused on leather community
- Fetish clubs: Dance venues with strict dress codes
- Play spaces: Clubs with dungeons and equipment
- Cruise bars: Dark rooms and private spaces
Understanding Dress Codes
Strict dress code: Only fetish gear allowed
- Leather (pants, vests, harnesses, chaps)
- Rubber/latex
- Military or police uniforms
- Sportswear (some venues)
- Minimal (jockstrap, underwear only)
Dress code preferred: Fetish encouraged but not required
- Black jeans with boots often acceptable
- Harness with casual wear usually works
Getting Started
- Start with a harness and black jeans – affordable entry point
- Visit leather bars first – more relaxed than clubs
- Many venues have lockers to change into gear
- Ask before touching anyone or their gear
Major Events
- Folsom Street Fair (San Francisco): The original, September
- Folsom Europe (Berlin): Europe's largest, September
- International Mr. Leather (Chicago): May
- Darklands (Antwerp): March
Remember: The fetish community values consent above all. Ask before engaging, and respect boundaries.