This FAQ page helps importers correctly identify the U.S. HS / HTS code for leggings and yoga pants when importing from China into the United States.
Although these products look similar, U.S. Customs classifies them differently, and choosing the wrong code can significantly increase duties or trigger customs issues.
❓ What is the HS code for leggings in the United States?
The most commonly used U.S. HS code for leggings is:
HS Code 6104630090
Women’s or girls’ knitted trousers and breeches, of synthetic fibers
This code is widely used for:
- Tight-fitting leggings
- High-stretch leggings (polyester + spandex / elastane)
- Casual, fashion, or everyday leggings
Leggings are usually treated by U.S. Customs as ordinary knitted trousers, not sportswear.
❓ What is the HS code for yoga pants in the United States?
The most commonly used U.S. HS code for yoga pants is:
HS Code 6112191060
Women’s or girls’ knitted sportswear (pants)
This code applies to:
- Yoga pants
- Gym or fitness pants
- Activewear designed specifically for sports use
Yoga pants are often classified as sportswear, which places them in a different HS chapter.
❓ Are leggings and yoga pants the same for customs purposes?
No.
Even though leggings and yoga pants are often marketed similarly, U.S. Customs does not classify products based on marketing names.
Customs classification is based on:
- Principal use (casual vs sports)
- Garment construction
- Fit and design
- Fabric composition
Because of this, leggings and yoga pants usually fall under different HS codes.
❓ How does U.S. Customs distinguish leggings from yoga pants?
U.S. Customs typically looks at the following factors:
- Fit
- Leggings: extremely tight, body-hugging
- Yoga pants: athletic fit, sometimes wider at the leg
- Function
- Leggings: casual or fashion wear
- Yoga pants: physical activity or exercise
- Construction details
- Yoga pants often have reinforced seams or sports design features
If the garment is primarily designed for sports or fitness, it is more likely to be classified as sportswear.
❓ Which HS code should I use if the product has high spandex content?
High spandex or elastane content alone does not make a product sportswear.
If the garment:
- Is extremely tight-fitting
- Is worn as everyday or fashion leggings
- Is not clearly designed for sports
➡ HS 6104630090 is usually appropriate.
Spandex content matters, but intended use matters more.
❓ Which HS code should I use if the product is sold as activewear?
If the product:
- Is marketed and designed as activewear
- Is intended for yoga, gym, or fitness use
- Has sports-specific construction
➡ HS 6112191060 is more likely to be correct.
However, marketing language alone is not enough — design and function must support the claim.
❓ Do yoga pants have higher import duties than leggings?
In many cases, yes.
Yoga pants classified as sportswear (HS 6112) often face:
- Higher base duty rates
- Additional Section 301 tariffs when imported from China
Leggings classified as ordinary knitted trousers (HS 6104) may have lower total landed costs.
That is why misclassifying leggings as yoga pants can significantly increase import duties.
❓ What is the biggest HS code mistake importers make with leggings and yoga pants?
The most common mistake is:
Classifying leggings as sportswear just because they look athletic or are used for exercise.
If the product does not meet the customs definition of sportswear, CBP may:
- Reclassify the product
- Recalculate duties
- Flag future shipments
❓ How should I describe leggings or yoga pants on the commercial invoice?
To reduce customs risk, your invoice should clearly state:
- Fabric composition (e.g. 78% polyester, 22% spandex)
- Garment type (leggings or sports pants)
- Intended use (casual wear or sportswear)
Avoid vague descriptions like “pants”.
❓ How can I check the duty rate for each HS code?
After identifying the correct HS code, you should always check:
- Base duty rate
- Section 301 additional tariffs
- Total landed cost
You can verify this here:
👉 https://www.fiowind.com/customs-duty-rates
❓ What is the final rule of thumb?
Use this simple decision logic:
- Leggings
→ Tight-fitting, high stretch, casual wear
→ HS 6104630090 - Yoga Pants
→ Designed and constructed for sports or fitness
→ HS 6112191060
Classification depends on function and construction, not marketing terms.