Should I use the ID 1856 or the full path for my feed?

You can use either. The numeric ID 1856 is preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors, but the full path is also fully supported.

Does this category replace the product_type attribute?

No. The google_product_category is for Google's internal classification, while product_type is a free-form field for your own internal organizational purposes.

What happens if I don't assign a category to my shoelaces?

Google will attempt to assign a category automatically. However, this often leads to errors or broad classifications, so it is best practice to assign the category manually.

Google product category

Shoelaces

Category ID1856

Full path for the feedApparel & Accessories > Shoe Accessories > Shoelaces

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Caterpy Run Shoelaces
No Tie Laces
Lace Lab Flat Shoe Laces
Lock Laces Elastic Shoelace & Fastener
White Shoe Laces
Shoe Gear Boot & Shoe Laces
Flat Argyle Shoelaces
Metallic Gold/White Rope Laces
VSUDO Double Layer Shoe Laces
Whiskers Laces Braided Dress Laces
Waxed Shoe Laces
Oval Shoes Lace
LaceLinks Flat Elastic Shoelaces
Sawtooth Shoelaces
3M Reflective Rope Laces

Category Overview: Shoelaces (ID: 1856)

The Shoelaces category, identified by ID 1856, falls under Apparel & Accessories > Shoe Accessories. It is the most granular level within this specific taxonomy branch, designed for products used specifically to fasten or secure footwear.

What Belongs in This Category

This category is intended for all types of laces used for securing shoes and boots. Based on examples from the US market, this includes items such as:

Standard flat, round, and oval cotton or synthetic shoe laces.
Specialized elastic no-tie lacing systems and fasteners.
Reflective, braided, and wax-coated specialty laces.
Decorative or high-performance athletic laces like those with locking mechanisms.

What Belongs Elsewhere

Do not include products that fit into neighbouring categories within the Shoe Accessories parent group. Specifically, items such as gaiters, boot liners, shoe covers, or spurs must be categorized in their respective categories rather than under shoelaces. Ensure your items do not cross into these distinct footwear accessory groups to maintain feed accuracy.

Implementation in Your Feed

You may submit either the ID 1856 or the full path: Apparel & Accessories > Shoe Accessories > Shoelaces. While optional, providing this category helps Google correctly identify your items, though it does not replace your internal product_type attribute. Since this is an apparel-related category, remember that Google may expect additional attributes such as color, size, gender, and age_group to ensure full compatibility with performance requirements and policy enforcement across your product listings.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID 1856 or the full path for my feed?: You can use either. The numeric ID 1856 is preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors, but the full path is also fully supported.
Does this category replace the product_type attribute?: No. The google_product_category is for Google's internal classification, while product_type is a free-form field for your own internal organizational purposes.
What happens if I don't assign a category to my shoelaces?: Google will attempt to assign a category automatically. However, this often leads to errors or broad classifications, so it is best practice to assign the category manually.

This category in other languages

ru: Предметы одежды и принадлежности > Принадлежности для обуви > Шнурки для обуви
uk: Одяг та аксесуари > Аксесуари для взуття > Шнурки для взуття