HS Code for Sneakers

Sneakers and similar athletic footwear are classified under HS code 6404.11. This code falls under Chapter 64, which covers footwear, gaiters, and the like. Heading 6404 is specifically for footwear with outer soles of rubber, plastics, leather, or composition leather and uppers of textile materials. The subheading 6404.11 is further refined to include \"sports footwear,\" which the HS Explanatory Notes define 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 tennis shoes, basketball shoes, gym shoes, training shoes, and similar footwear. To qualify for this code, the upper must be at least 50% textile material and the sole must be rubber or plastic. This classification is essential for determining duty rates, as footwear with leather uppers or plastic uppers falls under different headings (6403 and 6402, respectively).

Products Included

• Running and jogging shoes with textile uppers
• Basketball high-tops with canvas or synthetic fabric uppers
• Tennis shoes with rubber soles
• Cross-training shoes used for gym activities
• Skateboard shoes with textile uppers and flat rubber soles

Common Misclassification

A frequent misclassification occurs when sneakers have uppers made of synthetic leather (plastics). If the upper is primarily plastic, the correct code is 6402.19. If the upper is made of genuine leather, the footwear must be classified under 6403.19. Another common error is using 6404.19, which is for footwear with textile uppers but which does not meet the technical definition of \"sports footwear\" (e.g., casual espadrilles or plimsolls that are not designed for athletic training). Distinguishing between a casual textile shoe and a technical training shoe is vital for 6404.11.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Sneakers?

Sneakers with textile uppers and rubber/plastic soles are classified under HS code 6404.11.

What if my sneakers have leather trim?

If the leather is merely a trim and the majority of the upper surface area is textile, it remains 6404.11. However, if leather is the constituent material of the upper, it moves to 6403.19.