Washington, D.C. — Gage Ryder took home the title of Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2026 this past weekend during the iconic Mid-Atlantic Leather (MAL) Weekend, held annually in Washington, D.C.
Ryder currently holds the title of Mr. Pittsburgh Leather Fetish 2026, which he earned last fall. His victory at MAL marks a significant achievement for Pittsburgh’s leather community, as he now steps into a prominent regional role representing leather, kink, and fetish communities across the Mid-Atlantic.
Originally from Utah, Ryder has lived in Pittsburgh for the past 12 years with his husband, building deep roots in the local leather community. Known for blending astrological introspection (he’s a Gemini) with a serious love of gear, Gage is a connector, a servant leader, and a boundary-pusher in all the best ways. He’s passionate about community, togetherness, and inviting everyone to have a seat at the table. His presence in the scene is both grounding and expansive, and this win is a testament to the work he’s done and continues to do to uplift and ignite queer leather culture.
“Competing in the Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather contest was an incredible experience. Just a few years ago, I couldn’t have even dreamed of taking that stage,” Gage said. “I’d like to thank the community, the whole spectrum: leather, kink, drag, pet, fetish, and everything in between, for lifting me up, helping me to learn, to grow, and to evolve into the person I am today.”
Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend, which kicked off Thursday, January 15, is a three-day celebration of leather, kink, and LGBTQ+ life. Hosted annually in D.C., MAL features dance parties, vendor expos, and the famed leather contests that bring out community members from across the country. Highlights this year included the opening night event at the Hyatt Capitol and the late-night Kinetic Dance Party at District Eagle.
“I’m proud to bring the win home to Pittsburgh! Always remember that our community is great because of the sum of its parts, and each of you matter; you belong here, and you will always have a seat at my table.”
As Mr. Mid-Atlantic Leather 2026, Gage will represent the region at national events, fostering deeper connections among leather communities and continuing the work he’s long been committed to: service, transformation, and unapologetic queer joy.
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“My hope for my title year is that if even one person sees me and goes from ‘I wish I belonged’ to ‘I know I belong,’ I will call that more than a win.”
Congratulations, Gage! You’ve made the Steel City proud, and we’re ready to follow your lead wherever those boots take us.