4203.21.70.00 - Ice hockey gloves

This HTS classification, 4203.21.70.00, specifically covers ice hockey gloves. These are articles of apparel and clothing accessories designed for the unique demands of playing ice hockey, providing protection and grip for players on the ice. The construction and materials are tailored to absorb impact, resist abrasion from pucks and sticks, and offer specialized padding for the hands and wrists.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 4203.21.60, which covers baseball and softball gloves and mitts, including batting gloves. While both fall under sports gloves, ice hockey gloves are differentiated by their specific design for the sport's requirements, which typically involve more extensive padding and a different cut to allow for the flexibility and protection needed for stick handling, checking, and blocking shots. Similarly, they differ from ski or snowmobile gloves which are designed for warmth and water resistance in cold weather environments, rather than impact protection.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification relies on confirming that the gloves are indeed specially designed for ice hockey. Factors such as the presence of rigid or semi-rigid padding, reinforced finger areas, and wrist support mechanisms are key indicators for accurate classification under this specific HTS code.