HS Code for Rubber sole sneakers

Rubber sole sneakers are classified under HS code 6402.19. This classification falls under Chapter 64, which covers footwear, gaiters, and the like. Heading 6402 is designated for footwear with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics. The subheading 6402.19 specifically covers 'sports footwear' other than ski-boots or snowboard boots. To be classified here, the sneaker must meet two primary criteria: the outer sole must be made of rubber or plastic, and the upper (the part covering the foot) must also be made of rubber or plastic (including synthetic materials like polyurethane or PVC). Sneakers are identified by their athletic appearance, flexible soles, and closure systems like laces or velcro. The classification process requires a 'material of the upper' test; if the upper is more than 50% synthetic material by surface area, and the sole is rubber, 6402.19 is the appropriate code. This code is essential for distinguishing mass-produced synthetic athletic shoes from those made with natural leather or textile uppers.

Products Included

• Synthetic leather basketball sneakers with rubber outsoles.
• Plastic-upper running shoes designed for athletic training.
• Cross-training sneakers with molded rubber soles and PVC uppers.
• Tennis shoes featuring synthetic mesh and rubber reinforcements.
• Gymnastics shoes with rubber soles and synthetic uppers.

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is HS code 6404.11, which covers sports footwear with textile uppers. If the sneaker's upper is primarily made of canvas or knitted fabric, it must be moved to 6404. Another frequent error is using 6403.19, which is for sports footwear with leather uppers. Importers often confuse high-quality synthetic leather (plastic) with genuine animal leather. Additionally, casual 'fashion' sneakers that do not have the technical features of sports footwear might be pushed into 6402.99, though most modern sneakers are accepted under the sports footwear definition of 6402.19.

FAQ

What is the HS code for rubber sole sneakers?

The HS code for rubber sole sneakers with synthetic uppers is 6402.19. This code is specifically for sports footwear that does not use leather or textile as the primary upper material.

What if the sneakers have a small leather trim?

If the leather is merely a trim and the majority of the upper's surface area is rubber or plastic, it remains under 6402.19. If leather becomes the predominant material, it must be classified under 6403.