Why the Shoes?

We realize that by marching you’re already committing to helping our cause and speaking out against sexual violence. You might believe that no one should have to wear high heels and you might wonder why we’re asking you to wear them. We’re asking men to purchase and wear high heels for this march for a couple of reasons.

First, high heels are one of the myriad of uncomfortable things that our media and pop culture tells women that they should wear. Some like them and some don’t, but most have probably worn them and suffered. This is a chance for men to put on those same shoes and think critically about the ways that we raise men and women differently.

Second, in addition to making an impact on you, the walker, is that we be seen and noticed during the walk by those around us.  We want the community to think critically about gender and sexual violence issues and we want all of Buncombe County to know about the mission of Our VOICE and the services and programs we provide.

Third, we believe that no matter the issue, no one really ever knows what someone else is experiencing unless they are willing to walk a mile in her shoes. While we can’t make men literally turn into women, we feel this is an interesting opportunity for them to experience literally walking a mile in traditionally uncomfortable shoes.

Where do I get my shoes?

We encourage you to acquire shoes in advance because we are not able to guarantee how many shoes we will have or what sizes they will be the morning of the Walk.
Remember that women’s shoes run two sizes larger than men’s shoes – see the chart below for help:

You have several options –

1. Visit your local Goodwill or discount store and look for women’s high heels in your size, and if you can find red shoes, all the better.

2. Visit local shoe stores such as Tops for Shoes or Discount Shoes and ask the friendly sales staff for women’s high heels in your size (try to do this without laughing)

3. Go online and shop for these shoes while being able to laugh at yourself – here are some suggestions for quick online shopping –

Men’s Specific Heel (wide width and up to a woman’s size 17)

http://www.snaz75.com/pl-vanity-420.html

Standard 5” Heel (for men with more narrow feet and up to a woman’s size 16)

http://www.snaz75.com/pl-seduce-420.html

Standard 4” Heel (for men with more narrow feet and up to a woman’s size 16)

http://www.snaz75.com/pl-vanity-420.html