6401 - Waterproof footwear with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics, the uppers of which are neither fixed to the sole nor assembled by stitching, riveting, nailing, screwing, plugging or similar processes:

This HTS category, 6401, encompasses waterproof footwear where both the outer soles and uppers are exclusively made from rubber or plastics. A key defining characteristic is the method of construction: the uppers must not be attached to the sole through traditional assembly processes such as stitching, riveting, nailing, screwing, or plugging. Instead, these types of footwear are typically molded or otherwise seamlessly joined, ensuring complete water impermeability.

Category 6401 distinguishes itself from other footwear categories within Section XII by its strict material composition and the absence of conventional assembly methods. While other chapters may cover footwear made from leather, textiles, or assembled through sewing, this category specifically targets plastic or rubber footwear where the entire structure is designed to prevent water ingress through its inherent construction rather than relying on sealed seams.

Under this broad heading, subcategories further refine the classification based on specific features. One primary subdivision is for footwear incorporating a protective metal toe-cap, indicating its intended use in industrial or safety environments. The remaining products fall under "Other footwear," which would then be further delineated by more specific subheadings, likely based on the type of footwear (e.g., boots, shoes, clogs) and its intended application, provided those details are captured in subsequent subheadings not displayed here.