Find HS Code and trade information for supporting feet

Foot Supports

Foot supports are devices designed to enhance comfort, stability, and biomechanical efficiency of the foot and lower limb. They address a variety of issues ranging from minor discomfort to complex medical conditions.

Materials

Foot supports are constructed from a diverse range of materials, each offering different properties:

• Foam: Commonly used for cushioning and shock absorption. Density varies from soft to firm.
• Cork: Provides a natural, resilient base with good molding properties. Often used in custom orthotics.
• Plastic (Polypropylene, Carbon Fiber): Offers varying degrees of rigidity and support. Carbon fiber is lightweight and strong, often used for high-performance applications.
• Gel: Provides superior shock absorption and cushioning, particularly beneficial for impact-related issues.
• Leather: Used for covering and comfort, offering breathability and durability.
• Metal (Steel, Aluminum): Used in more rigid supports for specific structural needs, often found in ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs).

Purpose

The primary purposes of foot supports include:

• Pain Relief: Reducing pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back by addressing biomechanical imbalances.
• Arch Support: Providing support to the medial longitudinal arch, preventing overpronation (inward rolling) or supination (outward rolling) of the foot.
• Shock Absorption: Reducing impact forces during walking, running, and other activities.
• Stability and Alignment: Improving foot and ankle stability, promoting proper alignment of the lower limb.
• Prevention of Injuries: Reducing the risk of foot, ankle, and leg injuries.
• Correction of Deformities: Addressing structural abnormalities of the foot.

Function

Foot supports function by:

• Redistributing Pressure: Evenly distributing weight across the foot, reducing pressure on specific areas.
• Controlling Motion: Limiting excessive pronation or supination.
• Providing Cushioning: Absorbing impact forces.
• Improving Biomechanics: Promoting a more natural and efficient gait.
• Offering Structural Support: Correcting or supporting foot deformities.

Usage Scenarios

Foot supports are used in a wide range of scenarios:

• Everyday Use: For individuals experiencing general foot discomfort or fatigue.
• Athletic Activities: For athletes to improve performance, prevent injuries, and enhance stability.
• Medical Conditions: For individuals with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, arthritis, diabetes, and other foot-related conditions.
• Post-Surgical Support: To provide support and stability after foot or ankle surgery.
• Occupational Use: For individuals who spend long periods on their feet.

Common Types

• Insoles (Arch Supports): Placed inside shoes to provide arch support and cushioning. Available in over-the-counter and custom-made options.
• Orthotics: Custom-made devices designed to address specific biomechanical issues. Often prescribed by podiatrists or orthopedists.
• Heel Cups: Provide cushioning and support to the heel.
• Metatarsal Pads: Support the metatarsal bones, relieving pressure on the ball of the foot.
• Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs): Provide support and stability to the ankle and foot, often used after injury or for neurological conditions.
• Custom-Molded Orthotics: Created from a cast or scan of the foot, offering a precise fit and tailored support.
• Diabetic Inserts: Designed to provide cushioning and pressure relief for individuals with diabetes.

Supporting feet are components used to provide stability and support to various structures or equipment. Based on the provided information, several HS codes may be relevant depending on the specific material and application.

• 8487.90.00.80: This HS code covers machinery parts, not containing electrical connectors, insulators, coils, contacts or other electrical features, and not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter: Other. This could apply if the supporting feet are considered general machinery parts without any electrical components. The total tax rate is 83.9%, comprising a 3.9% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025. A 25% additional tariff applies to steel and aluminum products.
• 8487.90.00.40: This HS code covers machinery parts, not containing electrical connectors, insulators, coils, contacts or other electrical features, and not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter: Other Oil seals, other than those of chapter 40. While primarily for oil seals, it falls under the broader category of machinery parts. The total tax rate is 58.9%, consisting of a 3.9% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, with a 30% additional tariff taking effect on April 2, 2025.
• 8479.89.95.99: This HS code covers machines and mechanical appliances having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof: Other machines and mechanical appliances: Other: Other. If the supporting feet are part of a larger machine or appliance, this code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 57.5%, including a 2.5% base tariff and a 30% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025, with a 25% additional tariff on steel and aluminum products.

Regarding HS code 8487.90.00.80 and 8487.90.00.40, please note the potential for increased tariffs on steel and aluminum products (25%). If the supporting feet are made of these materials, the additional 25% tariff will apply.