The Leather Man

I happened to stop in during Urban Bear weekend, having just gaining a curiosity for the leather and bear scene in NYC. The staff were really nice and polite, and the store has a wide range of leather products that would fit anyone into that scene. It is a bit expensive, but for quality merchandise, you do pay what you’ll get.

This is THE place in Manhattan for very high quality leather goods and fetish gear. A lot of the rubber and leather is made right there and can be customized or custom ordered for your body. The staff. Is very knowledgable and friendly and knows their products. They treat customers very well from the moment you walk in. No other place in New York compares. I shop here always and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Whether you’re a newbie and shy or experienced with leather and fetish gear and play, this is the place and these are the people you want to deal with. They will make you feel comfortable all along the way. I go back often and you should too.

I have been going to the place for 15 years. It’s the best. But I have to say the last time I was there I was attended to by a girl that looked 17. I miss the days of going in there and being helped by a leather clad guy who knew about the stuff and cared about the life style. I know… Things change! But, I would rather have some guy in leather attending me to make the whole shopping experience the perfect one! I miss the good old days. But the store is great for equipment.

The place to go for all leathermen of the world…
The place is a hole in the ground, and packed from floor to ceiling, and their basement is just the gay alibaba cavern.
They carry a large range of leather clothing, boots, and a toy collection to dream for.
Though the place is pricey, I’ve always left satisfied with my purchases. I had a pair of leather pants, custom made by them, and I got it in 24 hours, so I can’t complain about that.
The reason I don’t give 5 stars, is because for being such a specific fetish store in NYC, I found the people working there a bit arrogant and not at all inviting.
Often when I ask questions about a product, they know about as much as I do and leave me without answers.
The place is so small and packed, that the salesperson leave you be and I never feel pressured on anything. In any case, if you’re into leather, I highly recommend you to go there and browse, while ignoring the salespersons…

My experience here was nothing short of perfect Justin was warm and welcoming and gave me the comfort I needed to shop for my first harness Once I stepped downstairs I was in Yolanda’s hands. She had my shirt off and the first harness on me in a flash. She man handled me just enough that made my nether regions move a little. She knew the right style and fit for me instantly. Now here’s the best part… I was being very specific about wanting a non-​black harness. They have custom leather choices AND it can be done in a very short time with just a small up-​charge. Mine was expertly created for me in 90 minutes by their leather craftsman AJ!!! I’m sure if I went with a non-​stock design or they were backlogged, the wait would be longer.
I could not be more pleased with the end product. Later that night I was back in with my boyfriend and he is having one made too. This place is a gem and has easily found two new loyal customers.

This is THE place for custom leather work, harnesses, ball gags, and a huge array of rubber to (hopefully) satisfy any craving one may have.
They even made a custom dog harness for my dog out of leather and chain. This is an excellent business and should be your go-​to if it’s in your scope of interest.

Update to July 2010 Review: Back after 4 years to this great store. Not surprised it has survived. Great, friendly staff. Fantastic inventory of fun clothes for lots of occasions (love the military shirt for $ 32!). The basement is an awesome collection of toys. This place has high quality EVERYTHING. Fun things at every price range. Like the name says, The Man has fantastic Leather.

This is a must, a go to, a pilgrimage, and a privilege for every neophyte or full blown fetishist or leather enthusist living in or visiting NYC!

So my partner and I were in town for a week and we needed to get him a leather vest. I looked online and the site didn’t have much selection and the store was small so we decided to check it out. As soon as w walked in we were faces with a wall of leather way more then there site and were greeted. There was a cute cub that was working and he helped us out and it was his first week working there so Eric helped us out as well. My partner tried of a few vest and we found one for him. We went down to look at more gear and the selection was great,
The next day we decided to go back because I now wanted a vest. I tried on some and I found one I liked but it was too short, I was feeling a bit discouraged, then Eric the owner said we can make a custom vest: D. We got my chest size and he called up AJ the leather craftsman and the measured me up. I asked if they could get it done quickly since we were flying out and the said yes. I went back to pick it up and it fit like a dream and it was perfect! Thank you for the great service and vest.
Pros:
— Great prices on gear
— custom gear
— fast
— friendly
— great selection on Leather and Neoprene. (they carry leather for women)
— Great collection of classic leather look
Con:
— The website need to be updated.
— Tiny stairs that make for a fun adventure down.

Pricey but the staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Had a great selection of bondage and other adult toys.

Oh, like you didn’t know.
Whether you are coming for a purpose or because you were intrigued by the front window décor, it can be a bit overwhelming, so don’t be scared like the two friends I brought with me. It’s a small space with a ton of fun stuff geared towards open-​minded people who like to try new things and have fun… safely! They have your staples (belts), your larger pieces (pants/​chaps/​jackets), and some things that you’ll be like, «how does one use that?!» (straight jacket, anyone?!). As long as you have an idea of what you are looking for, or an idea of what interests you, that’s a good start. I usually make a trip (or two) here when I am in town and have always loved the selection and the service.
To speak to their service, I snuck in again twice this past weekend, first to pick up a belt, and next to pick up a cap. Since I try to have things as custom as possible and because not everything comes totally custom, I asked CT, one of the employees, if he could measure my head (no pun intended). He informed me that he could help me out, which really meant helping me try on caps until I found the right size (I guess that really IS the best way to do it, right?!) He prepped the two that I tried on, explained proper care for them, and pointed out accessories in case I ever decided to jazz it up a bit (but I am not flashy, so I did not plan to). He took a few minutes to talk to me, asking where I was visiting from, how my trip was going, and any fun things I have taken part in. He even got me signed up for their rewards program, which is great, especially if you plan on frequenting or making a larger purchase down the road.
Also, be sure to sign up for their email list. They are known to send offers and discount codes when you sign up, and on your birthday. I realized I had a $ 20 credit in my email I did not use. Boo. Next time!
Although I get my bigger stuff done in Chicago, everything they have here is awesome. To be honest, I have never inquired about the turnaround time on custom work but if they’re able to do it quickly I would be more than happy to pick something larger up next time around.
Oh, and don’t walk in expecting not to burn a hole in your breeches. It’s expensive stuff, but the prices are fair and the quality is well worth it. Go in with an open mind and come out with something FUN!

I’m a fan. They are hands-​down the best Leather store in the city, although that kind of makes them a big fish in a small pond.
Their selection of impact toys is very good and very reasonably priced. Their clothes and leather goods will break the bank. I’ve found excellent boots, a very nice custom-​made leather tie, and a wonderful belt there. I had less luck finding a good locking collar for my boy there (the only model they had was too thick and stiff in comparison to the most similar collar sold by Mr. S through their website)
In my experience, the staff has been uniformly friendly and helpful. Some of my women friends have told me they feel out of place there.

OMGosh you are all probably bored with my updates! Now, rest assured I do not update my review each and every time that I visit Leatherman! LOL!
I stopped in because it is my birthday month! I was so happy to find great things! My last visit, I picked up, on clearance of course YAY! A «mullet» skirt! I call it a mullet skirt, because its business in the front, and PARTAY in the back! Yes, it sure is and No… I am not posting photos!!! :P
That being said, my most recent visit was fun of course. I needed a pair of reliable and well made suspension cuffs. Where else to go? Leatherman of course! Leatherman makes their cuffs at their on site workshop. I happened to get my hands on the last pair of suspension cuffs. They were a BARGAIN! I was very pleased with the price. I brought up my concern to the salesman about how tiny my wrists are. I explained that every suspension cuff I have ever tried never fit, and thus have never been able to actually use the cuffs for what they are designed for!
Rest assured, they offered to tailor them free of charge! NOW that is the way to do business! So in the cost of my cuffs, were the tailoring services! They were ready in about 2 days! My husband picked them up and brought them home to me! Off we were to play with them. They fit great. Although, I may end up going back in just so they can poke a few more holes so that they can be made even smaller.
I also picked up a rattan discipline cane for my naughty boy, and a beautiful medieval looking suspension bar!
Great service once again, and great unsurpassed products! I will keep returning!
Definitely go here– folks that are reading or have read 50 Shades of Grey, don’t be afraid to stop in here for some fun stuff, if not even to just look around! If you do not know what something is, they will gladly answer any questions! Heck, I have gone into the shop and after nearly 20 years in the fetish scene still stumble upon and say ‘what’s this”!
So check it out! If only for their ever changing and exciting window display!
Hint: If you are a Dexter fan, go see the window– um hope that didn’t come out the wrong way! :PP

I live in the East Village so I am almost never on the west side, but I had an appointment with my vet on 26^th St. and 7^th Ave. Sooo, whilst in the area I stopped at Purple Passion with my French Bulldog in tow. I was looking for some longer leather shorts (don’t ask), but not the dazey dukes variety that seem to be more ubiquitous. He said he did not have any but Leather Man should have what I was looking for. So I hauled my (and my dog’s ass) down to motherfucking Christopher Street.
When we got there the taller employee greeted and doted on my dog, while the short, ruddy one was chatting away with a group of depraved homosexuals who had tribal tattoos which usually is an indication of the fisting community.
I skimmed through the selection. Not finding what I was looking for I asked, «Do you have longer leather shorts?» The shorter one replied in the affirmative and that they were downstairs. I look down to see a very steep and narrow spiral staircase. I stop to think for a moment on how I can navigate this situation. Then the shorter one says, «I think you better come back some other time,» in the fucking cuntiest voice ever. I said, ok then, and walked out.
As I walked down the street I began thinking, when I was in retail, I busted my ass, went to the stock room, did whatever it took to make every sale an easy, satsfying experience. Not this lazy bitch.
Bitch, you should have ASKED ME what the fuck my size was and got it for me. I was ready to buy those shorts so WAMP WAMP you lost a sale, you lazy slob. Maybe if you spent more time doing work and staying in motion maybe your out of shape ass woulda had the energy to make the sale.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Don’t be shy to ask them questions about using the products. They’ll guide you to make sure you buy the right product, toy, accessory, etc. No pressure sales. The Leather Man is a Village landmark!

For quality gear and products from a staff who know their shit, this is the place to go. There are some other leather and fetish shops around, but none compare to the fantastic quality of The Leather Man.
When I’ve bought items like leather pants and neoprene, the staff always helps me find the right size and style and gives me ALL the details of what I should look for, how things should fit, how to care for items, etc. It’s great! Would not trust another store with my leather.

This is an incredible store with very high service. Every time I come in for adjustments on my leather they do it with speed and courtesy. It is worth the investment here in quality product and quality craftsmen. The Leatherman has staff have always been a courteous and respectful. I recommend it highly

Nice store. Vast selection.
But the customer service, BEYOND HORRIBLE, almost vulgar.
Sales person ANDY T (according to my receipt today 12÷17÷11 @ 4:20) really needs a good enema. He’s packed full of «ca-​ca». And why only God knows… he’s working in a small fetish store, gees.
He displayed a nasty arrogant queenie attitude, when its really not needed. I don’t even get that treatment in Barney or Saks, But I have to come to Christopher St to find it. Sad
Otherwise… Nice store.

In the Summer heat, I’d lost an inch or two off of my tummy. So, I took my belt back to The Leather Man for some adjustment. The friendly guys whisked me downstairs, and with three *pop*s, my belt fit again!
Thanks Leather Man!

«Ouch!» is the first thing to come out of my mouth when I leave The Leather Man. I am no sub, but the missing Benjamins from my wallet is proof that this place has me pad-​locked in their custom leather posture collar, kneeling to it for all my leather needs.
This place is for deviant minds. Adventurous couples. Sometimes individuals nursing a broken heart through creative chastity.
I’ve been coming here for so long that, to my surprise, I had an account with a special discount under my name. Besides the embarassment of having to clear up what I do for a living, the super professional and friendly staff were nice enough to let me keep that perk. It’s like one big happy family here. Home is where the heart is, and they stole mine.
They have all kinds of toys for girls and boys.
Books, DVD’s, things to put you at ease…
Their selection caters to the less deadly of the species. On a brighter note– if the shoe fits, who cares if you don’t have the right parts? You can always buy the right parts. Make the descent down their narrow spiral staircase to leather, latex, and silicone heaven. It is well worth the trip. This is a place to transform yourself from man to Bear, average joe to a jolly Jane, humble grrrl to Amazon Queen.
If you aren’t into leather or fetish gear but happen to stumble accidentally into this place, you can always get a perfect custom leather belt while you wait.
Just remember to leave all your inhibitions and baggage at the door. They will give you a unique identifying ticket with labels such as «SLUT» to pick them up on your way out. Stay strapped.