Athletic Socks - HTS Code 6115.96.90.20

Athletic socks are specialized hosiery designed to support the foot during high-intensity physical activities such as running, gym training, and competitive sports. These garments are primarily engineered from synthetic fibers—typically blends of polyester, nylon, and elastane—to provide superior moisture-wicking capabilities, elasticity, and durability compared to traditional cotton hosiery. Common styles include ankle socks, low-cut socks, and crew-length sports socks. Key performance features often include targeted cushioning in high-impact zones like the heel and forefoot, reinforced toe boxes to prevent wear, and integrated arch support bands for a secure fit. The knitted construction ensures breathability and a snug contour to the foot, which is essential for preventing friction and blisters during athletic movement. For US Customs purposes, these items are defined by their synthetic composition and their construction as knitted hosiery that does not provide the specialized graduated compression required for medical or surgical classification. They are essential components of performance apparel kits for both amateur and professional athletes globally.

Important: AI output requires professional review

Moya provides AI-assisted research for U.S. import workflows. Results are not a binding CBP ruling, legal advice, customs brokerage advice, or filing instruction. Verify HTS codes, duties, and compliance requirements with a licensed customs broker or official source before relying on them.

Reference HTS Code

6115.96.90.20

For research only. Verify the latest schedule and official requirements before filing.

AI Classification Reasoning

The classification of synthetic athletic socks under HTS 6115.96.90.20 is determined by applying the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI). Following GRI 1, the product is classified according to the terms of the headings; Heading 6115 specifically provides for 'Pantyhose, tights, stockings, socks and other hosiery.' As these articles are knitted, they fall under Chapter 61, as reinforced by Chapter Note 1. Under GRI 6, the classification proceeds to the subheading level. Subheading 6115.96 is selected because the socks are composed of synthetic fibers (such as polyester or nylon), which must predominate by weight over other textile materials. This distinguishes them from cotton (6115.95) or wool (6115.94) variants. The socks are further classified under 6115.96.90 because they do not meet the criteria for surgical compression hosiery found in 6115.10. The final statistical suffix '20' identifies the goods as falling under textile category 632. This classification path ensures the application of the 14.6% general duty rate. Importers must ensure the fiber content is accurately lab-tested, as even a slight shift in weight percentage toward natural fibers would move the product to a different subheading.

Tariff Information

General rate—

🔒Section 301 surcharge (China origin)
🔒Section 232 (steel/aluminum)
🔒IEEPA tariffs
🔒Exclusion list lookup
🔒Tariff impact notes

Want the full tariff breakdown for this product?

Free signup gets you 10 classifications/week including Section 301/232/IEEPA stacking and CPSC compliance screening.

FAQ

What is the duty rate for synthetic athletic socks under HTS 6115.96.90.20?: The general rate of duty for this HTS code is 14.6% ad valorem for countries with Most Favored Nation (MFN) status.
How does Customs distinguish between 'athletic' and 'surgical' compression socks?: Surgical compression socks (6115.10) must provide graduated pressure intended to alleviate medical conditions. Standard athletic socks with arch support or light compression for comfort remain under 6115.96.90.
What happens if my athletic socks are a blend of 50% polyester and 50% cotton?: Classification depends on which fiber predominates by weight. If they are an equal blend, Note 2 to Section XI applies, usually directing classification to the heading that occurs last in numerical order (synthetic fibers).