Brothers, husbands and fathers banded together to raise $65,000 during a charity walk to end violence against women.

The men, decked out in business suits and high-heeled shoes, walked through downtown for the first Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event held in Toronto. The event is part of the White Ribbon Campaign’s efforts to end gender-based violence. Toronto is one of 161 cities that have participated in Walk a Mile events so far this year.

While some events in other cities have showcased colourful costumes, feather boas and tiaras, several toronto men seemed to prefer the more practical approach - donning comfortable, pragmatic footwear for the hike.

There was no shortage of red patent leather (the signature style of the organizers) though, and men opting for shiny platforms and five-inch heels chose to participate in some warm up exercises before the walk.

Councilor Adam Giambrone kicked off the walk alongside drag queen Enza “Supermodel” Anderson, who provided some practical and humorous tips for men to walk safely in their shoes. (Grates, she asserted, were designed by men and should be avoided by anyone wearing high heels.)

For men participating at the last minute, or lacking in the skill of shoe-shopping, Indigo Shoe was on hand with a shoe station featuring various styles available to use.