The Texas Bootblack contest is a skills competition. Where other titles test presence, speech, and stage performance, this one puts your hands to work. Contestants need to know their products, read leather on sight, and operate a stand under real conditions. If bootblacking is your craft, this is where Texas recognizes it.
The winner represents Texas at the International Community Bootblack (ICBB) contest, as well as International Mister Leather (IML) and International Ms. Leather (IMsL).
What the Contest Looks Like
The Texas Bootblack contest is scored across five categories, totaling 1,800 possible points. Technical skills account for half of them. Judges are active members of the leather and bootblack community, and scoring is straight — every point counts, no drops.
There's a hard floor: you must score at least 630 points in Technical Skills to win the title. If no contestant hits that threshold, no title is awarded — regardless of the number of contestants running.
- Tech Boot & Skills Interview — 450 points. You'll have 45 minutes to restore one boot (the right boot; leave the left untouched). Judges compare it against the untouched mate, evaluating your technique, product knowledge, and presentation of the process. After the judges have reviewed your work, you'll sit for a 15-minute skills interview covering your stand-time approach and tech boot process. Boots are provided. Bring your supplies and your best work — no heat-producing elements allowed.
- Stand Time — 450 points. Scored throughout the weekend in the Bootblack Lounge. Judges observe your speed, finished product, triage skills, and how you handle whatever sits in your stand. Attendees are assigned to bootblacks by numbered ticket — your focus should be on your craft. You keep your tips.
- Personal Interview — 300 points. A private, 15-minute sit-down with the judging panel. Questions cover community contributions, leather history, personal experience, title requirements, and your goals and vision. Accessibility accommodations for translation or interpretation are available with up to 10 additional minutes.
- Speech — 225 points. A 90-second speech on stage, on any topic you choose, in your best formal leather. Judges evaluate how you connect with the audience, organize your thoughts, and present your views. Points deducted for exceeding the time limit.
- Public Image & Demeanor — 225 points. Scored from the moment you arrive. Judges watch how you interact with attendees, other contestants, and staff throughout the weekend — communication skills, willingness to share knowledge, and the heart and passion you bring to the boots you black.
- Pop Question — 150 points. A live, on-stage question drawn at random. You'll read it, the MC reads it to the audience, and you answer. Think on your feet and show some personality. This is also your chance to wear something that reflects your leather image and makes you feel confident.
What Winning Means
The Texas Bootblack title is a year-long commitment to visibility, craft, and service. As titleholder, you'll be expected to:
- Make a minimum of six public appearances at leather, fetish, or LGBTQ+ events across Texas
- Organize at least one charitable event or fundraiser benefiting the leather, kink, or LGBTQ+ community
- Attend, assist, and promote the next Austin Kink Weekend and Texas Bootblack contest
- Represent Texas at IML, IMsL, or ICBB as the Texas Bootblack
- Maintain good standing in the community by presenting yourself with integrity
Who Can Apply
The contest is open to LGBTQ+ and queer-friendly individuals who are 21 or older as of April 1, 2026 and permanent residents of Texas. The application fee is $25 (hardship exceptions available — contact
