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

HS code 640411 covers a wide range of sports and athletic footwear, including tennis shoes, basketball shoes, gym shoes, and training shoes. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader sports and fitness equipment sector, catering to the growing demand for high-performance, comfortable, and stylish footwear for a variety of physical activities. The production and trade of these products are significant contributors to the global economy, with a diverse range of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers operating in this space.

The production of sports footwear under HS code 640411 typically involves a combination of advanced manufacturing techniques and specialized machinery. The process often begins with the cutting and shaping of the textile uppers, which are then joined with the rubber or plastic outer soles using adhesives or stitching. Midsoles and insoles may be added for additional cushioning and support. Many manufacturers also incorporate advanced technologies, such as shock-absorbing materials and breathable fabrics, to enhance the performance and comfort of the final product.

The main inputs required for the production of sports footwear under HS code 640411 include textile materials, such as synthetic fabrics or natural fibers, for the uppers; rubber or plastic compounds for the outer soles; and various adhesives, stitching materials, and other components. Manufacturers may also rely on specialized machinery, such as cutting and stitching equipment, as well as molds and injection molding systems to shape the soles. Additionally, the industry requires a skilled workforce capable of operating these production processes efficiently.

The primary output of HS code 640411 is a wide range of sports and athletic footwear, including tennis shoes, basketball shoes, gym shoes, and training shoes. These products are often consumed by 950619 Sports and outdoor games equipment, 950699 Other articles and equipment for sports or outdoor games, and 950611 Lawn-tennis rackets, as they are essential components of sports and fitness equipment. The sports footwear industry also supplies products to 640420 Footwear with outer soles of leather or composition leather; uppers of textile materials, as some sports and athletic shoes may have leather or composition leather components.