Find HS Code and trade information for protecting the palm

Palm Protection

Palm protection refers to measures taken to safeguard the palm of the hand from injury, abrasion, or discomfort. The palm, lacking substantial bony protection, is vulnerable during various activities.

Materials

Various materials are employed in palm protection, each offering different levels of durability, dexterity, and comfort:

• Leather: Traditionally used for its abrasion resistance and durability. Often found in work gloves and specialized protective gear. Different types of leather (e.g., cowhide, goatskin) offer varying degrees of thickness and suppleness.
• Synthetic Fabrics: Materials like nylon, polyester, and Kevlar provide abrasion resistance, cut resistance, and can be more lightweight and breathable than leather. Often used in gloves for activities requiring high dexterity.
• Gel/Foam Padding: Used to absorb impact and reduce vibration. Common in cycling gloves, weightlifting gloves, and gloves for drumming or other impact-intensive activities.
• Rubber/Silicone: Provides grip and can offer some cushioning. Often incorporated into gloves for handling slippery objects or for enhanced control.
• High-Density Polymers: Used in specialized protective gear for impact resistance, particularly in sports like skateboarding or BMX.

Purpose & Function

The primary functions of palm protection are:

• Abrasion Resistance: Preventing wear and tear from friction against surfaces.
• Impact Absorption: Reducing the force of impacts, minimizing pain and injury.
• Vibration Dampening: Reducing fatigue and discomfort from repetitive motions or tools.
• Grip Enhancement: Improving control and stability when handling objects.
• Cut/Puncture Resistance: Protecting against sharp objects.
• Temperature Protection: Insulating against heat or cold.

Usage Scenarios

Palm protection is utilized in a wide range of activities:

• Work/Construction: Gloves protecting against abrasions, cuts, and impacts when handling tools and materials.
• Cycling: Gloves with gel padding to absorb vibrations and provide grip.
• Weightlifting/Fitness: Gloves with padding to prevent calluses and improve grip.
• Sports: Gloves for activities like baseball, softball, skateboarding, BMX, and rock climbing, providing grip, impact protection, and abrasion resistance.
• Motorcycling: Gloves with reinforced palms for abrasion resistance in the event of a fall.
• Gardening: Gloves protecting against abrasions, punctures, and dirt.
• Manual Labor: Various tasks requiring handling rough or abrasive materials.

Common Types

• Work Gloves: General-purpose gloves for various tasks, often made of leather or synthetic materials.
• Cycling Gloves: Padded gloves with breathable fabrics.
• Weightlifting Gloves: Gloves with padding and wrist support.
• Baseball/Softball Gloves: Specialized gloves with reinforced palms for catching.
• Motorcycle Gloves: Reinforced gloves with abrasion resistance and impact protection.
• Impact-Resistant Gloves: Gloves with high-density polymer padding for extreme impact protection.
• Tactical Gloves: Gloves designed for law enforcement or military use, offering a balance of protection, dexterity, and durability.
• Rock Climbing Gloves: Gloves designed for grip and protection during climbing.

Based on the provided information, the following HS codes may be relevant to products designed for “protecting the palm”:

• 4015121010: This HS code falls under Chapter 40 – Articles of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber. Specifically, it covers Heading 4015 – Articles of apparel and clothing accessories (including gloves, mittens and mitts), for all purposes. The Subheading 401512 further specifies gloves, mittens and mitts of a kind used for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary purposes, and 40151210 denotes those specifically for medical or surgical purposes – Medical gloves, mittens and mitts. Note: This code applies if the palm protection is intended for medical use. The total tax rate is 80.0% (0.0% basic tariff, 50.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).

• 4015195100: Also within Chapter 40 and Heading 4015, this HS code covers gloves, mittens and mitts, but categorized as “Other”. The Subheading 401519 specifies other gloves, mittens and mitts, and 4015195100 denotes “Other”. Note: This code applies to non-medical gloves, mittens, and mitts. The total tax rate is 69.0% (14.0% basic tariff, 25.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).

• 6116100500: This HS code falls under Chapter 61 – Knitted or crocheted articles of apparel and clothing accessories. Specifically, it covers Heading 6116 – Gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or crocheted. The Subheading 611610 further specifies those impregnated, coated, covered or laminated with plastics or rubber, and 6116100500 denotes Ice hockey gloves and field hockey gloves. The total tax rate is 30.0% (0.0% basic tariff, 0.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).

• 6116930500: Also within Chapter 61 and Heading 6116, this HS code covers gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or crocheted, but categorized as “Other”. The Subheading 611693 specifies those of synthetic fibers, and 6116930500 denotes Ice hockey gloves and field hockey gloves. The total tax rate is 37.5% (0.0% basic tariff, 7.5% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).

It is important to determine the material composition (rubber vs. knitted/crocheted) and intended use (medical, sports, general protection) to accurately classify the product. If the palm protection is incorporated into a larger garment, the HS code for the garment itself may be more appropriate.