9902.14.09 - Footwear excluded from classification in subheading 6402.20.00 (zoris) because the thickest point of the sole is more than 9.53 mm thicker than the thinnest point or more than 35 percent thicker than the thinnest point; such footwear otherwise meeting the requirements for classification in subheading 6402.20.00 (provided for in subheading 6402.99.31)

This classification, HTS Code 9902.14.09, specifically addresses footwear that, despite otherwise meeting the criteria for subheading 6402.20.00 (often associated with zoris), deviates due to specific sole thickness characteristics. The defining feature for this temporary provision is that the footwear's sole exhibits a significant variation in thickness. Specifically, the thickest point of the sole must be more than 9.53 millimeters thicker than the thinnest point, or alternatively, the thickest point must be more than 35 percent thicker than the thinnest point. This distinction is crucial for accurate import declaration.

While the broader HTS Section XXII and Chapter 99 deal with special classification provisions and temporary legislation, this particular subheading carves out a specific niche within footwear. It distinguishes itself from the primary classification of zoris in 6402.20.00 by its precise dimensional requirements for the sole. It also differs from other potential footwear classifications that might not fall under the zori umbrella or those that lack the specific sole thickness variation criteria outlined here. The focus is solely on the physical attributes of the sole, not the upper material or overall footwear construction beyond what is implicitly required by its potential classification under 6402.20.00.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories to explore under 9902.14.09. Classification terminates at this point based on the outlined sole thickness criteria. Therefore, for goods falling under this provision, the import declaration must explicitly cite HTS Code 9902.14.09, indicating that the footwear has been examined and meets the specific sole thickness variance that necessitates its classification here, rather than within the more general zori category.