HS Code for Sports shoes

Sports shoes with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics are classified under HS code 6402.19. This classification is governed by the notes to Chapter 64, which define "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. However, subheading 6402.19 specifically excludes ski-boots and snowboard boots (which fall under 6402.12). The classification is determined by two primary factors: the material of the upper and the sole (both must be rubber or plastic) and the functional design of the shoe. If the shoe is intended for general athletic use but lacks the specific attachments mentioned in the chapter notes, it might still be classified here if it is clearly designed for a specific sport. This code is essential for determining duty rates, as footwear made of synthetic materials often carries different tariffs than footwear made of leather or textile materials.

Products Included

• Running shoes with plastic uppers
• Basketball shoes with rubber soles
• Tennis shoes (synthetic materials)
• Soccer cleats with plastic studs
• Training shoes for gym use

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs between 6402.19 and 6403.19. The difference lies entirely in the material of the upper; 6403 is for footwear with uppers of leather, while 6402 is for uppers of rubber or plastic. Another common error is misclassifying sports shoes with textile uppers under 6404.11. Importers must carefully examine the material composition of the "upper" (the part of the shoe above the sole) to ensure the correct code is applied. Additionally, casual sneakers that do not meet the technical definition of "sports footwear" in the Chapter 64 notes may be classified under 6402.99 (other footwear) rather than the sports-specific 6402.19.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Sports shoes?

The HS code for sports shoes with both uppers and soles made of rubber or plastic (excluding ski footwear) is 6402.19.

Does this code include leather running shoes?

No, running shoes with leather uppers are classified under HS code 6403.19, as Chapter 64 distinguishes strictly between synthetic and leather uppers.