HS Code for Cross-country ski boots

Cross-country ski boots are classified under HS code 6402.12. This classification falls under Chapter 64, which covers footwear, gaiters, and the like. Heading 6402 applies to footwear with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics. Subheading 6402.12 is a specific provision for sports footwear, specifically naming ski-boots, cross-country ski footwear, and snowboard boots. The classification is determined by two main factors: the material of construction and the specialized design. Most modern cross-country boots utilize synthetic uppers (plastics or resins) and molded plastic soles to interface with specific binding systems (like NNN or SNS). Because these boots are designed specifically for a sport and possess features like stiff soles and binding attachments that make them unsuitable for ordinary walking, they are classified as sports footwear. The inclusion of "cross-country ski footwear" in the text of 6402.12 ensures there is no ambiguity regarding their placement.

Products Included

• Classic cross-country ski boots
• Skate skiing boots
• Combi cross-country boots
• Backcountry Nordic boots
• Integrated gaiter cross-country boots
• Junior cross-country ski footwear

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs when the material of the upper is not correctly identified. If the cross-country boots have uppers made of natural leather, they must be classified under HS code 6403.12. If the uppers are primarily textile, they might fall under 6404.11, though most technical ski boots are plastic-heavy. Another error is using the general sports footwear code 6402.19; however, since 6402.12 specifically mentions ski-boots and cross-country footwear, it must be used according to the principle of specificity in the General Rules of Interpretation (GIR 1).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Cross-country ski boots?

The HS code for cross-country ski boots with rubber or plastic uppers is 6402.12.

What if the ski boots are made of leather?

If the uppers of the cross-country ski boots are made of leather, the correct HS code is 6403.12, as Chapter 64 differentiates footwear based on the material of the upper.