In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise the way Indians adapt to trends and style, the ‘Bha shoe sizing system’ is poised to kick out the old ill-fitting footwear sizing methods and introduce a new era of comfort and style. This innovative approach, born out of India’s determination to break free from Eurocentric fashion norms, promises to provide a perfect fit for shoe enthusiasts across the country.
But first, a little backstory
From a new shoe sizing system (Bha) to a sartorial revolution, India is upping its fashion antics in style breaking one Eurocentric policy at a time and it all circles back its rising soft power. Well, that’s just my view on it anyway.
Back in 2022, India made an important diplomatic statement. Europe’s problems are not the world’s problems. This was Jaishankar’s flashy statement emerging from the success of a new India backed by Modi. It was stepping up in the global playground in terms of reputation and respect. So, when the external affairs minister made headlines for saying that at an international event, it made a lot of people gush and beat their chest with pride – “Hamaara time aa gaya hai” (our time has come).
With all that in the background and in the context of today’s story, there was a curious little video by First Post that caught my eye today – India is mulling the introduction of a new shoe sizing system.
Bha – the new shoe sizing system for Indians
In a world hell-bent on following the American and Eurocentric approaches to fashion, India has decided that it would turn the footwear industry on its heel with a new innovative shoe sizing system called ‘Bha’. This revolutionary move is set to transform the way Indians buy and wear shoes, bidding farewell to the days of uncomfortable and ill-fitting footwear.
Before independence, under British rule, Indians were rarely a priority for data collection, let alone data on shoe sizes. So the British simply introduced footwear catering to the average size and sensibilities of the Brits. Among other things, colonisation ruined the traditional concepts of footwear for the nation. As the years passed by, other Western size charts were added to use. Like the European and US sizing systems, so India depends on the standard sizes of other countries.
The ‘Bha’ sizing system is expected to be implemented as early as next year. Once that happens, it aims to kick out western sizing systems in India. No doubt it has big shoes to fill, but why does India need its own footwear sizes?
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The ‘Bha’ sizing system, named after the Hindi letter for ‘Bharat’ (India), is a bold step towards size inclusivity and self-reliance. It comes after a comprehensive survey conducted between 2021 and 2022, involving the 3D foot scanning of over 100,000 individuals across 79 locations. The findings were eye-opening, revealing that Indian feet are, on average, wider than those in Europe or America. This explains why so many of us have been cramming our feet into shoes that are either too large or poorly fitting, leading to discomfort and health issues.
Since Indian feet are wider than those of Europeans or Americans, footwear based on their sizes is narrow in shape, and Indians have to wear a bigger size, meaning the shoes are ill-fitted. It’s uncomfortable and can lead to problems like restricted blood flow or body pain. For the elderly or people with health problems like diabetes, it’s not just an inconvenience; it can also cause potential injuries. Now, with this survey, India has gotten its foot in the door. It has the data to prove it as well.
But fear not, ‘Bha’ is here to save the day! This innovative sizing system introduces 8 simplified sizes tailored to fit different age groups, from infants to adults. It aims to provide a more comfortable and well-fitted experience for approximately 85% of Indians. Say goodbye to shoe-related woes and hello to happy feet!
‘Bha’ shoe sizing system introduces 8 sizes
- 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)
Production under the ‘Bha’ system will primarily focus on sizes III to VIII, covering the needs of the majority of Indians. This move is not just about comfort; it’s also a smart business move. By eliminating the need for half-sizes, manufacturers can simplify their processes and reduce costs. Plus, with a wider range of options available, consumers are more likely to find their perfect fit, reducing the rejection rate of online shoe orders, which currently stands at a staggering 50%.
The introduction of the ‘Bha’ sizing system is part of a broader effort by India to create size-inclusive standards across various industries. It’s a testament to India’s ingenuity and determination to chart its own course, free from the constraints of Western sizing standards.
Have you also wondered why some of us have the same problem with clothes? You may recollect going shopping and coming back with a sense of guilt because the best-looking outfits in the store don’t fit you or don’t look good on you. Has it ever occurred to you that it may not be your fault entirely, after all? Because it is definitely the clothes.
Most clothing brands do not cater to Indian sizes, instead opting for US and UK body measurements. In 2019, India decided to address this issue by conducting a study of Indian measurements and proportions, aiming to create an Indian body size standard. This project is still ongoing, and it is crucial as India’s apparel industry is expected to reach $250 billion by 2030. If clothes don’t fit the same Indians who make it for the world, then what’s the point?
Developing sizing charts won’t be easy; standardised charts by the UK and the US were devised in the early to mid-1900s and underwent considerable trial and error. Today, about a dozen countries have their own sizing charts, including Japan, China, and South Korea, which have broken free of Western sizing standards. India is now following suit with its own shoe size system, and hopefully, it will be a smooth transition.
So, get ready to put your best foot forward with ‘Bha’! It’s not just a shoe sizing system; it’s a step towards a more comfortable and well-fitted future for shoe enthusiasts across the country.
