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AAFA opposes CBP proposal to reclassify fashion footwear
20 Nov '19
2 min read
Pic: Shutterstock
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) recently wrote to the office of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly opposing the proposed revocation of rulings on certain fashion footwear that, the association thinks, would overturn decades of precedent, industry best practice and basic common sense. It urged the CBP not to classify these shoes as ‘athletic footwear’.
While fashion sneakers and high-performance athletic footwear might share some basic traits–flexible outsoles with traction, cushioned insoles, and a secure closure–the similarities stop there. AAFA said.
The fashion sneakers in the rulings in question, and fashion sneakers overall, are not intended for athletic purposes, and there are at most only a handful of examples of fashion sneakers being used for athletic purposes, according to AAFA president and chief executive officer Rick Helfenbein, who said the shoes in question should not be classified as ‘athletic footwear’ by the CBP.
There are shoes that resemble sport shoes but cannot be used at all in any sporting activity and an average consumer would never wear fashion sneakers in question for a long walk, or short run, or to play basketball or soccer, AAFA said in the letter.
“Just because a shoe is comfortable, it should not be classified under ‘athletic footwear’, especially when the shoe could not, would not, and should not ever be used for athletic purposes,” the letter added.
While fashion sneakers and high-performance athletic footwear might share some basic traits–flexible outsoles with traction, cushioned insoles, and a secure closure–the similarities stop there. AAFA said.
The fashion sneakers in the rulings in question, and fashion sneakers overall, are not intended for athletic purposes, and there are at most only a handful of examples of fashion sneakers being used for athletic purposes, according to AAFA president and chief executive officer Rick Helfenbein, who said the shoes in question should not be classified as ‘athletic footwear’ by the CBP.
There are shoes that resemble sport shoes but cannot be used at all in any sporting activity and an average consumer would never wear fashion sneakers in question for a long walk, or short run, or to play basketball or soccer, AAFA said in the letter.
“Just because a shoe is comfortable, it should not be classified under ‘athletic footwear’, especially when the shoe could not, would not, and should not ever be used for athletic purposes,” the letter added.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
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