As the Northern Hemisphere's ice and snow season arrives, ski resorts both domestically and internationally are opening their doors, signaling the start of a celebration for winter sports enthusiasts. Today, we'll guide you through the essential equipment you need on the slopes.
I. Skis and Core Equipment
(1) Skis
Skis have diversified into various types, such as snowboards and alpine skis, consisting of a ski and corresponding ski boots. The ski boots are secured to the matching skis by means of bindings. Pursuant to General Rules for the Interpretation 1 and 6 (GRIs 1 and 6) of the Harmonized System, skis are classified under tariff subheading 9506.1100.
Ski bindings are critical components that connect the skis and ski boots, categorized as snowboard bindings and alpine ski bindings. Pursuant to GRIs 1 and 6, ski bindings are classified under tariff subheading 9506.1200.
(2) Other Skiing Gear
Ski poles are essential aids for alpine skiing. Skiers use them to push themselves up after a fall, propel themselves on flat terrain, and serve as pivot points during parallel turns to facilitate better center of gravity control.
Ski brakes, also known as ski stoppers, are typically mounted on the tail of the ski. They engage with the snow surface, either manually or automatically, to increase friction and thus reduce skiing speed.
Pursuant to GRIs 1 and 6, both ski poles and ski brakes are classified under tariff subheading 9506.1900.
II. Specialty Apparel and Protective Gear
(1) Ski Suits
Ski suits, purpose-designed for skiing, must offer insulation, waterproofing, and wind resistance to provide skiers with essential protection and comfort. For safety considerations, such as facilitating search and rescue on snow, they typically feature bright, conspicuous colors. However, not all apparel worn for skiing qualifies as "ski suits" for classification purposes; they must satisfy specific style requirements. The manufacturing processes and materials of ski suits differ. Those manufactured by knitting or crocheting are classified under heading 6112.20, while those made using other textile fabrication methods fall under heading 6211.20, with further subdivision based on the specific textile material.
(2) Ski Helmets
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) mandates the use of ski helmets for safety. A typical ski helmet comprises an outer shell, main structure, inner lining, adjustment system, retention device, buckle, and goggle retainer. Helmets used in professional competitions often feature a metal chin guard. Functionally, ski helmets are categorized as "safety headgear." Pursuant to GRIs 1 and 6, they are classified under tariff subheading 6506.1000.
(3) Ski Gloves
Ski gloves must be soft, durable, and cut-resistant, in addition to providing warmth. They are first classified based on whether they are knitted or crocheted, falling under heading 6116 or 6216, respectively, with subsequent classification determined by the constituent materials.
(4) Ski Goggles
The intense light reflection from snow is likely to cause snow blindness, while the cold wind during gliding poses a significant irritative hazard to the eyeballs. Furthermore, lens fogging can impair vision and lead to dangerous situations. Consequently, wearing ski goggles is crucial for eye protection. When selecting goggles, ensure they feature both UV protection and anti-fog design. Ski goggles are categorized as "other protective goggles." Pursuant to GRIs 1 and 6, they are classified under tariff subheading 9004.9090.
III. Other Skiing/Snowboarding Equipment
(1) Indoor Ski Simulators
Indoor ski simulators are devices that replicate the authentic experience of skiing indoors. Typically driven by a motor, they feature a specialized ski treadmill that rotates continuously. By adjusting the speed of the treadmill and the incline of the entire platform, they can simulate diverse skiing experiences, from beginner slopes to advanced runs, offering year-round training and recreation regardless of location. Certain models incorporate AR/VR projection systems to display virtual slopes, project movement analysis, and provide immersive training. As specialized large/complex equipment exclusively used for skiing, they are classified under tariff subheading 9506.9990 in accordance with GRIs 1 and 6.
(2) Ski Lifts and Cable Cars
As integral components of winter sports resorts, ski lifts and cable cars are more than just convenient transportation connecting different zones; they are crucial facilities that enhance the skiing experience, ensure safety, and provide skiers with efficient and secure transit services.
Ski lifts and cable cars are classified according to their specific functions and uses: Monocable circulating ropeways fall under tariff subheading 8428.6021; non-monocable circulating passenger aerial ropeways fall under tariff subheading 8428.6029; and equipment used for ropeway turnaround and ski tows are classified under tariff subheading 8428.6090.
(By Pei Tingting and Li Yan)
Disclaimer：The above content is translated from Chinese version of China Inspection and Quarantine Times. The China Inspection and Quarantine Times version shall prevail.
