6402.20.00.00 - Footwear with upper straps or thongs assembled to the sole by means of plugs (zoris)

This classification covers footwear specifically designed with upper straps or thongs that are affixed to the sole through a plug or peg system. A prime example falling into this category are "zoris," a traditional Japanese sandal where a thong passes through a hole in the sole and is secured. The defining characteristic is the method of assembly, where the upper material is directly connected to the sole via a plug mechanism, rather than being stitched, glued, or otherwise permanently attached in a more conventional manner.

This category is distinguished from its siblings, "Sports footwear" and "Other footwear," by its unique construction method. While sports footwear prioritizes performance and support for athletic activities, and "Other footwear" encompasses a broad range of general footwear not fitting specific descriptions, this particular classification is determined by the specific plug-and-thong assembly of the upper to the sole. This means that even if a sandal has outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics, if its upper straps are attached via plugs, it will fall under this specific heading, not the more general "Other footwear" category.

As a leaf node, this category has no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 6402.20.00.00 relies entirely on the precise identification of the plug assembly method for the upper straps or thongs. The primary materials of the sole and upper (rubber or plastics) are a prerequisite for being within the broader heading 6402, but the defining criterion for this specific sub-heading is the unique plug-based construction.