6404.11.81 - With uppers of vegetable fibers and having outer soles with textile materials having the greatest surface area in contact with the ground, but not taken into account under the terms of additional U.S. note 5 to this chapter

This HTS classification covers sports footwear designed for athletic activities and training, such as tennis shoes, basketball shoes, and gym shoes. A key characteristic is that these shoes feature uppers constructed from vegetable fibers. Crucially, the outer soles of these shoes are made from textile materials that constitute the greatest surface area in contact with the ground, with a specific exclusion for items covered under additional U.S. note 5 to this chapter. The footwear must also fall within the valuation bracket of over $6.50 but not exceeding $12 per pair.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, HTS code 6404.11.81 specifically requires the uppers to be made of vegetable fibers. This contrasts with sibling category 6404.11.85, which covers footwear with uppers made from textile materials *other than* vegetable fibers, while sharing the same outer sole and valuation criteria. Category 6404.11.89 serves as a residual classification for other similar sports footwear not meeting the specific criteria of the preceding subheadings.

The subcategories within 6404.11.81 further refine the classification based on the intended wearer. This allows for more granular tracking and reporting of specific types of sports footwear. The subdivisions are: 6404.11.81.30 for men's footwear, 6404.11.81.60 for women's footwear, and 6404.11.81.90 for other categories not specifically for men or women.