The contest is open to all gender identities, sexualities, abilities or disabilities, and bootblack skill levels.
This year we have 2 very skilled bootblacks competing for the title of UK Bootblack 2025
CALAH
Calah (she/they) is a dedicated bootblack, leatherworker, and award-winning bootmaker. Since their first experience bootblacking at the inaugural Butch Revival in 2023, Ca has been captivated by the richness and diversity within such a seemingly simple act, and by the vital roles it plays in both leather communities and the care of what we wear. Driven by this passion, Calah founded Skin Stitches, offering boot repair and shoe-shine services alongside their own handcrafted leatherwork. Their love of bootblacking builds directly on her experiences apprenticing in a footwear factory and handmaking shoes, starting a journey which led them to become a supporter of the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers and to receive the 2025 Craft of Shoemaking Award. Through these experiences, Calah has developed a deep appreciation and profound respect for both the fetish and vanilla communities that celebrate leather, inspiring their continued study, service, and support of those who share this craft and culture. You’ll regularly find Calah & their bootblacking kit at Dyke events around the north, or at @Skin_Stitches.
WOOKIE
A regular fixture in the Birmingham kink scene, Wookie (He/Him), is a bootblack who believes no leather should go unloved – or un-shined. Originally at home in the biker and skins community, he can be found at Leather events in the Midlands usually behind the stand with a brush in one hand and banter in the other, he brings a love for tradition, polish, and the occasional cheeky comment. Whether it’s a quick buff or a full restoration, Wookie’s got your boots covered – literally.
