Find HS Code and trade information for gel heel cups

Gel Heel Cups

Gel heel cups are cushioning inserts placed inside shoes to provide comfort and support to the heel. They are commonly used to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various foot conditions.

Material

The primary material is typically a gel-like substance, most often:

• Silicone: Durable, hypoallergenic, and provides good cushioning.
• Polyurethane Gel: Offers excellent shock absorption and is often more affordable than silicone.
• Mineral Oil Gel: Provides a softer feel but may compress more quickly than other types.
• Some products incorporate fabrics like Lycra or other synthetic materials for added comfort and to help keep the cup in place.

Purpose & Function

• Shock Absorption: Reduces impact stress on the heel during walking, running, and other activities.
• Pain Relief: Alleviates pain caused by heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, bruised heels, and general heel discomfort.
• Support & Cushioning: Provides extra padding and support to the heel, reducing pressure.
• Prevention: Can be used preventatively to reduce the risk of heel pain, especially during high-impact activities.

Usage Scenarios

• Athletics: Runners, walkers, and other athletes use them to reduce impact and prevent injuries.
• Prolonged Standing/Walking: Individuals who spend long periods on their feet (e.g., nurses, teachers, retail workers) benefit from the added cushioning.
• Foot Conditions: Used as part of a broader treatment plan for conditions like:
  • Heel Spurs
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bruised Heels
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Bursitis
• Post-Surgery: Can provide comfort and support during recovery from heel surgery.

Common Types

• Full-Length Inserts: Cover the entire length of the heel, providing more comprehensive cushioning.
• Heel Cups (Circular/U-Shaped): Specifically designed to fit around the heel, targeting localized pain. U-shaped cups often relieve pressure directly on the heel spur.
• Self-Adhesive Cups: Feature an adhesive backing to stay securely in place within the shoe.
• Air Gel Cups: Incorporate air pockets for additional shock absorption.
• Liquid Gel Cups: Contain a liquid gel that conforms to the shape of the heel.
• Arch Support Cups: Combine heel cushioning with arch support for more comprehensive foot support.

Gel heel cups are cushioning inserts designed to provide support and comfort to the heel of the foot, typically used within footwear to alleviate pain or pressure. They are often made of a gel-like material, providing shock absorption and impact reduction.

The following HS codes may be relevant, based on the provided reference material:

• 9506910030: Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics or athletics; parts and accessories thereof. This code covers articles for physical exercise, which could include heel cups used for athletic support or injury prevention.

  • 95: Chapters 95 covers Miscellaneous manufactured articles.
  • 06: Heading 9506 covers Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics or outdoor games.
  • 910030: Subheading 9506910030 specifically covers articles for general physical exercise, gymnastics or athletics; parts and accessories thereof.

• 3926902100: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914. This code covers various plastic articles, and heel cups made of gel (a plastic material) could fall under this category.

  • 39: Chapters 39 covers Plastics and articles thereof.
  • 26: Heading 3926 covers Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914.
  • 902100: Subheading 3926902100 covers ice bags; douche bags, enema bags, hot water bottles, and fittings therefor; invalid and similar nursing cushions; dress shields; prophylactics; bulbs for syringes; syringes (other than hypodermic syringes) and fittings therefor, not in part of glass or metal. While not a direct match, "invalid and similar nursing cushions" could be interpreted to include supportive heel cups.

• 3926909910: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914. This is a broader category for plastic articles, and heel cups could be classified here if they don't fit neatly into other subheadings.

  • 39: Chapters 39 covers Plastics and articles thereof.
  • 26: Heading 3926 covers Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914.
  • 909910: Subheading 3926909910 covers Laboratory ware. This is a less direct match, but could apply if the heel cups are used in a medical or therapeutic context.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'gel heel cups' are limited, with only the following 3 found. It is recommended to carefully consider the material composition and intended use of the heel cups to determine the most accurate classification.