Finding out a properly fit pair of shoes is a hectic process.
Now, Indians are going have a new shoe sizing system named ‘Bha’. Representing Bharat (India), the proposed system is set to replace the existing European and American sizing system. For decades, Indians have enforced to wear shoes sized as per US or European standards. Sometimes, this led to discomfort, blisters, or even foot deformities. The time has come to change the tradition.
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR–CLRI) proposed eight different footwear sizes under ‘Bha’: I for infants between 0 to 1 year, II for kids of 1 to 3 years, III for small children of 4 to 6 years, IV for children of 7 to 11 years, V for girls of 12 to 13 years, VI for boys of 12 to 14 years, VII – for women over 14 years, and VIII for men over 15 years. ‘Bha’ promises to bring a transformative change in the Indian footwear industry. It will provide more comfort and reduce foot-related issues.
There are numerous factors involved during selecting the right pair. However, there are so many misinformation about footwear!
In this article, we will discuss about some common misconception about footwear.
Fact: That's not necessarily true. There is nobody with identical feet size. You can call your legs as siblings, but they are not twins. In some cases, the difference is prominent. If anybody is suffering from Spina bifida, Clubfoot, Scoliosis or any developmental injuries, the feet size is strikingly different. In such cases, you need consultation from doctor.
Fact: Although sports shoe brands are promoting lighter shoes, it's not always beneficial. Usually, lighter shoes carry less cushioning which leads to lack of support while running. Sometimes, it becomes painful too. If you are currently wearing light shoes and facing the same issue, opt for a better support and comfort while buying next time.
Fact: This is a long-standing myth about feet size. Generally, people with good height gets a bigger feet. However, this is not true for all. Feet size depends on nutrition, genetics, and some other physiological factors. If you are having a larger-than-average feet in your younger age, it doesn't mean you will become a basketball player!
Fact: Athletes prefer shoes with cushioned soles which will absorb the impact. So, during the impact, the shoe is preventing your feet to do much work. However, if you are using barefoot shoes while hiking, the feet gain strength via active movement. So, if you are running with barefoot shoes, your shoes will utilise their full potential. Basically, you need to understand your feet movement irrespective of terrain.
Fact: This is also not completely true. If you really want to utilise the strength of your feet, do try barefoot walking. In some emergency medical cases, doctors suggest barefoot shoes for patients with flat feet.
Fact: No, definitely not! Barefoot shoes are preferred for children as their feet keep on growing till certain age. However, it is not applicable for everyone. Before adopting to barefoot shoes, consult with a doctor with your medical history.
Buying a good pair of shoes is always a well-thought-out investment. So, stay away from these myths.
