In India, shoe sizes typically align with UK, EU, and US sizing standards. However, this system often results in ill-fitting shoes for many Indians, causing discomfort, injuries, and foot health problems. This discrepancy can stem from differences in foot morphology and measuring techniques.
To address this issue, a new footwear sizing system specifically designed for Indians is in the works. It is to be named ‘Bha’ for ‘Bharat’, reported NDTV.
In a survey that was conducted between December 2021 and March 2022 which studied the 3D foot scanning of over 100,000 Indians across 79 locations, it was found that Indian feet are generally wider than those in Europe and America. Indians have been wearing shoes that are either too large or are ill-fitting.
The ‘Bha’ shoe sizing system will have a total of 8 sizes suited for different age groups, aiming to provide a better fit to 85% of Indians.
“The average foot size growth for Indian women peaked at 11 years old, while for Indian men, it peaked at around 15 or 16 years old,” revealed the study.
The 8 different sizes will include:
I – Infants (0-1 year)
II – Toddlers (1-3 years)
III – Small children (4-6 years)
IV – Children (7-11 years)
V – Girls (12-13 years)
VI – Boys (12-14 years)
VII – Women (14 years and above)
VIII – Men (15 years and above)
This study was conducted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) teamed up with the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) in Chennai. ‘Bha’ is expected to replace the existing UK, EU and US sizing systems by 2025, reported Hindustan Times.
However, several people online weren’t quite thrilled by the term ‘Bha’ and came up with very funny reactions to the news. Have a look:
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Are you happy with the new shoe sizing system?