6402.99.33 - Footwear designed to be worn over, or in lieu of, other footwear as a protection against water, oil, grease or chemicals or cold or inclement weather

This HTS classification, 6402.99.33, specifically covers protective footwear designed to shield the wearer from environmental hazards such as water, oil, grease, chemicals, or extreme cold and inclement weather. The defining characteristic is its protective function, often achieved through the use of waterproof or resistant materials for both the outer sole and upper. These items are intended to be worn over existing footwear or as standalone protection.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, 6402.99.32 covers "Protective active footwear," which implies a design geared towards athletic or performance activities while offering protection. Conversely, other sibling categories at this level may include footwear with open toes or heels, slip-on styles, or those with specific foxing band constructions, none of which are the primary focus here. The essence of 6402.99.33 lies in its broad protective application against external environmental elements.

The subcategories under 6402.99.33, such as "For men" and "For women," further refine the classification based on the intended gender of the wearer. This distinction is relevant for statistical tracking and potentially for specific import regulations or trade agreements. The residual category, 6402.99.33.90, serves to capture any remaining protective footwear within this description that does not fall into the more specific gender-based subdivisions.