Sports footwear; (other than ski-boots, snowboard boots or cross-country ski footwear), with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics

HS code 640219 covers a significant segment of the global sports footwear industry. This category includes a wide range of athletic shoes, such as running, walking, and training shoes, that feature outer soles and uppers made of rubber or plastics. These versatile and durable sports footwear products are essential for active lifestyles, recreational activities, and professional sports. The demand for 640219 sports footwear is driven by the growing emphasis on health, fitness, and an active lifestyle across both developed and developing economies.

The production of sports footwear under HS code 640219 typically involves a multi-step process. It begins with the cutting and shaping of the upper materials, which are often made from synthetic or natural rubber, as well as various plastic compounds. These upper components are then assembled and attached to the outsole, which is designed to provide traction, cushioning, and support. The final stage involves the addition of any specialized features, such as shock-absorbing midsoles, breathable mesh panels, or reinforced toe boxes, to enhance the performance and comfort of the footwear.

The key inputs for the production of 640219 sports footwear include a variety of rubber and plastic materials, such as 400110 Natural rubber, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip, 390110 Polyethylene, having a specific gravity of less than 0.94, in primary forms, and 400122 (Butadiene rubber (BR), in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip). Additionally, manufacturers require specialized machinery and equipment for cutting, shaping, and assembling the footwear components. Skilled labor, particularly in the areas of design, pattern-making, and quality control, is also a crucial input for this industry.

The primary output of HS code 640219 is a diverse range of sports footwear products, including running shoes, training shoes, and other athletic shoes designed for various activities. These sports footwear items may be consumed by a wide range of industries and end-users, such as 950619 (Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports (including table-tennis) or outdoor games, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; swimming pools and paddling pools), 950691 Gymnasium or athletics articles and equipment, and 950699 Other articles and equipment for sports or outdoor games; swimming pools and paddling pools. The sports footwear produced under this code may also be used as inputs for the production of 640411 Sports footwear; tennis shoes, basketball shoes, gym shoes, training shoes and the like, with outer soles of rubber or plastics and uppers of textile materials.