It’s All Too Small
It may seem an obvious thing to say that Chinese people are generally shorter and all around smaller than Westerners. According to the 2000 National Census, average height for a Chinese man is 169 centimeters. Average height in Western nations is usually around 8 to 10 centimeters taller. Though Chinese people are gaining in stature as their country gains in prosperity and more people have better access to proper nutrition and healthcare, it’s still the case that Chinese people are generally smaller than Westerners.
But what may not be obvious is that these differences in size can make it rather difficult for Westerners to shop in China. Outside of a few places that cater to Western size – such as the Silk Market in Beijing and similar venues – it’s difficult to find clothes that fit the average Westerner. Those hoping to find unique pieces of Asian style at Chinese malls will find over and over again that a size XL is much too small, and that the largest shoe size available is three sizes too small. Those who are a bit larger than Western average are simply out of luck anywhere and everywhere in China.
Even Chinese people who need large clothes or shoes must simply do without. Current NBA hopeful Sun Ming stands at an impressive 7 feet 9 inches (236 cm), but his size has come at the price of his feet. He was unable to find shoes large enough to accommodate his feet while he was growing up and today his toes are deformed as a result.
Simply put, those of above average height, foot or waist size, whether Chinese or foreign, have few options other than customization in China. Fortunately, finding a good tailor in China is easily done, and buying clothes there is usually not much more expensive than the latest fashions at the mall, though of course exact prices will depend on both fabric quality and your particular bargaining skills.
