9902.14.18 - Women’s footwear with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics, each sole measuring not over 12 mm in thickness, the foregoing footwear designed for use in cheerleading activities, valued over $19/pair and weighing not over 0.5 kg/pair (provided for in subheading 6402.99.90)

This HTS category, 9902.14.18, specifically addresses women's footwear designed for cheerleading activities. The classification criteria are precise, focusing on footwear with outer soles and uppers composed of rubber or plastics. Key physical characteristics that define this category include sole thickness not exceeding 12 millimeters, a per-pair weight of no more than 0.5 kilograms, and a value exceeding $19 per pair. This temporary provision is designed to capture these specific types of athletic footwear, which are further classified under subheading 6402.99.90 in the permanent structure.

Unlike the broad range of sibling categories found at the root level of the HTS, such as live animals (Chapters 01), this category is highly specialized, focusing on a niche within consumer goods. Its placement within Chapter 99 indicates a temporary tariff or modification, distinct from the permanent goods classifications found in earlier chapters. This provision is not meant to capture general athletic shoes, casual footwear, or footwear made from other materials like leather or textiles, even if intended for sports.

As a leaf node, 9902.14.18 has no further subcategories. The detailed description and the reference to its underlying permanent HTS subheading (6402.99.90) serve as the definitive guide for classification. Importers must carefully assess the physical attributes (sole thickness, weight) and value of their cheerleading footwear to ensure correct application of this temporary provision.