HS Code for Leather sports shoes

Leather sports shoes fall under HS code 6403.19. This classification falls within Chapter 64, which covers footwear and parts thereof. Heading 6403 is specifically for footwear with outer soles of rubber, plastics, leather, or composition leather and uppers of leather. The "sports footwear" designation is further refined by Subheading Note 1 to Chapter 64, which defines sports footwear as footwear designed for a sporting activity and which has, or has provision for the attachment of, spikes, sprigs, stops, clips, bars, or the like. It also includes skating boots, ski-boots, and cross-country ski footwear. Subheading 6403.19 is a residual category for sports footwear that does not fall under 6403.11 or 6403.12 (ski-boots). This includes shoes for football, tennis, basketball, and gym use, provided they have leather uppers. The distinction between "sports footwear" and "casual footwear" is critical; a leather sneaker intended for fashion without specific athletic attachments or specialized construction may be classified under 6403.99 instead. The classification process requires a close examination of the sole's construction and the upper's material composition to ensure the 6403.19 code is applied correctly. The presence of leather uppers is the primary determinant for heading 6403, as opposed to 6404 which covers textile uppers.

Products Included

• Football (soccer) boots with leather uppers
• Track and field shoes with spikes
• Tennis and basketball shoes with leather uppers
• Cycling shoes with provision for clips
• Wrestling and boxing boots

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 6403.99, which covers general leather footwear. If a shoe looks like a sports shoe but lacks the technical features (like spikes or specialized athletic support), it must be classified as casual footwear. Another error is using 6404.11, which is for sports footwear with textile uppers. Importers must verify if the "leather" is genuine or synthetic; synthetic leather uppers move the classification to 6402.19.

FAQ

What is the HS code for leather sports shoes?

The HS code for leather sports shoes (excluding ski footwear) is 6403.19, provided the uppers are made of leather and the soles are rubber, plastic, or leather.

Do leather sneakers count as sports shoes?

Only if they meet the technical definition of sports footwear, such as having attachments for spikes or being specifically designed for a sport. Fashion sneakers are usually classified under 6403.99.