It can be traced back to hot bikers in the 1940s. And, of course, it started in the United States. Following the Second World War, there was an explosion in biker culture.
Clubs such as Satyrs Motorcycle Club in Los Angeles were born. Not all of its members resembled the roguish Marlon Brando, but he springs to mind when we think about Gay Leather Men. They're rugged, unashamedly masculine, provocative and oozing a dangerous sex appeal.
As international travel became more available, the scene boldly crossed the Atlantic.