Humanetics has unveiled its latest pioneering research through the SizeWorld CHINA survey, providing groundbreaking insights into the evolving body dimensions of the Chinese population. This comprehensive study reveals that Chinese consumers are growing taller, broader, and heavier than ever before, marking a significant shift from previous generations.
The SizeWorld CHINA survey, a result of meticulous planning and years of data collection, focuses on capturing the 3D body shapes and measurements of the Chinese population. Conducted across six major regions – North, Northeast, East, South Central, Southwest, and Northwest China – the survey includes a diverse and representative sample. It measured 9,023 individuals, spanning men, women, and children aged 6 to 75+, at 15 locations across the country. The study aligns its demographic sample with China’s national census data, ensuring its accuracy and reliability.
This initiative is especially significant because the last officially recognized body survey in China was conducted back in 1988. That study only focused on adults and offered a limited dataset. Over the past three decades, rapid economic development, urbanization, and the emergence of the middle class have fundamentally reshaped lifestyles and, consequently, body dimensions. Factors such as changes in diet, improved living conditions, and economic mobility have all contributed to this evolution.
Key Findings: Taller, Broader, and Heavier Populations
Anke Rissiek, Director of Humanetics Body Data Consulting Services, highlighted some of the major trends revealed in the study. She explained, “The new size trends include substantial increases in weight and girth, especially among men, as well as noticeable gains in height. We also observed significant age-related height differences and unique body proportions compared to other global populations, such as shorter legs and longer torsos when compared to European populations.”
These findings provide a crucial foundation for industries seeking to optimize the design, fit, and function of products for Chinese consumers. From clothing and accessories to vehicles and industrial workspaces, the data allows manufacturers and designers to address the unique body dimensions of this growing market.
Leveraging iSize: The Largest 3D Body Data Portal
The comprehensive data collected from the SizeWorld CHINA survey is now available through Humanetics’ iSize portal – the world’s most extensive database of 3D body scans. This resource plays a pivotal role for designers, engineers, and manufacturers who are committed to creating products that cater to a broad spectrum of end users.
Industries that benefit from iSize data include:
- Apparel and Fashion Design: Creating accurate size charts and grading systems to cater to a changing population.
- Automotive and Aerospace Engineering: Designing vehicles and seating systems that provide better comfort, safety, and ergonomics.
- Industrial Design: Developing tools, workspaces, and safety equipment that match the actual dimensions of users.
For designers in these industries, the iSize portal ensures equitable design considerations, promoting inclusivity and comfort for all users.
RAMSIS Integration: Predicting Future Needs
The SizeWorld CHINA data will also integrate with RAMSIS, Humanetics’ leading software for ergonomics engineering. RAMSIS is widely used in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial design to optimize environments for occupants of varying sizes and demographics. The next RAMSIS software release, scheduled for November, will incorporate these new insights to further enhance the precision and usability of its models.
One of the most exciting features of RAMSIS is its ability to predict population changes over the next 30 years. By leveraging this detailed data, companies can make informed, long-term decisions for product development. Industries that rely on accurate, up-to-date body measurements can future-proof their designs to accommodate the needs of an evolving population.
Advancing Apparel and Protective Equipment Design
Fashion designers, apparel brands, and safety equipment manufacturers are among the key beneficiaries of this study. Accurate sizing and body data allow these sectors to:
- Refine size charts tailored to specific customer groups.
- Improve the design and fit of protective clothing, ensuring maximum safety and functionality.
- Reduce product returns, enhance customer satisfaction, and minimize wastage in the retail sector.
Optimized sizing systems based on real-world body data translate directly into higher sales, fewer returns, and enhanced consumer comfort.
Setting a New Benchmark for Industry Standards
The SizeWorld CHINA survey is groundbreaking not only because of its scale but also because it is the first representative study to include both children and adults simultaneously. Over 36,000 scans were captured in four different postures – Standard, Relaxed, Reach, and Seated. These scans adhere to international measurement standards, including ISO 7250, ISO 8559, and ASTM, ensuring global comparability and accuracy.
To enable realistic product development, digital avatars were generated from the 3D scans, offering designers the tools they need to create better-fitting products across industries. By aligning with Humanetics’ global methodology used in surveys like SizeGERMANY, SizeITALY, and Size NorthAmerica, SizeWorld CHINA ensures that its findings are compatible with international markets.
Socio-Demographic Insights: Beyond Measurements
In addition to capturing body dimensions, the survey collected extensive socio-demographic data through participant questionnaires. These surveys covered topics such as apparel preferences, sports habits, and automotive interests, providing deeper context for product designers to understand consumer behaviors and needs.
Shaping the Future of Design
The SizeWorld CHINA study represents a critical milestone in understanding the evolving body dimensions of Chinese consumers. By providing industries with accurate, up-to-date data, Humanetics empowers businesses to design products that are not only functional but also inclusive, comfortable, and tailored to the realities of their target markets.
As the Chinese population continues to evolve, insights like those from SizeWorld CHINA will play a key role in helping industries adapt, innovate, and thrive in this dynamic market.
