9506.12.40.00 - Cross-country

This HTS category, 9506.12.40.00, specifically designates cross-country ski bindings. These bindings are designed to attach skis to the boots of a skier, facilitating movement across varied terrain, as opposed to downhill skiing where the primary focus is on descending slopes. The key characteristic is their construction and mechanism, which allows for heel lift while keeping the toe secured, enabling a striding motion.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 9506.12.80.00 ("Other"), is crucial for accurate classification. The sibling category encompasses any ski bindings that do not specifically fall under the "cross-country" designation, such as those intended for alpine or telemark skiing, which typically have different locking mechanisms and a focus on ski control during descent. Therefore, when classifying ski bindings, the intended use and the resulting design features are the primary differentiating factors.

As 9506.12.40.00 represents a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Classification within this code is based on the identification of the item as a ski binding intended and designed for the activity of cross-country skiing. This includes bindings that may be sold independently or as part of a set, provided their design aligns with the functional requirements of cross-country skiing.