GEARBLAST for queer men who are into gear other than traditional leather.

GearBlast was started in 2006 as a one-night event at the Green Lantern Bar during Mid-Atlantic Leather in Washington DC. The event was meant as an opportunity for folks to meet who are into gear other than traditional leather. GearBlast continues to welcome people who are into many types of protective, fetish, and transformative gear. GearBlast is run by gearheads for gearheads.

Popular types of gear are full coverage gear, protective gear, form-fitting gear, uniforms, and transformative gear.  Examples of popular full coverage gear are motorcycle helmets/leathers, football, hockey, rubber catsuits/hoods, SWAT, tactical, cycling, wetsuits, zentai, etc.  GearBlast makes a point that it also welcomes attendees who enjoy non-full coverage gear as they include activities for folks who wear uniforms such as soccer, lacrosse, military, and wrestling singlets. Their events  also attract folks into gear that transforms who they are, such as furries, pups, drones, superheroes, etc 

The whole GearBlast phenomenon has spread across the globe and the UK is just about to have its annual event in Walsall, in the Midlands from 18th – 20th August.  And the theme this year is #gearsexual – celebrating the diversity of our community and recognizing that being into gear is all about you, and isn’t owned by a particular group or identity. 

What happens there?  Well  Friday 18th August for a social evening and gear is a good idea but not compulsory. Playrooms will be open for a variety of fun, to be confirmed closer to the time. Saturday starts with another, prize-giving barbecue and the Playrooms will be open until the wee hours of the morning. Sunday sees brunch before the Playrooms  are opened  for the last time. On one of the days, there will also be a ‘ride out to the nearby town of Matlock.

Gearblast told Queerguru that they are all about celebrating and appreciating the diversity and uniqueness that each of us brings to this community, and they recognize that those who share a common interest in gear are not all the same (nor would we want them to be!).  They added Everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, body type, or economic status will always be welcome at GearBlast.