Officials in Mexico’s southern state of Oaxaca have accused sportswear giant Adidas of cultural appropriation after the brand unveiled sandals resembling a traditional regional design.
The Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, created by American designer Willy Chavarria, who has Mexican heritage, drew criticism for closely mirroring the huarache style unique to the Hidalgo Yalalag community.
Governor Salomon Jara described the product as “a reinterpreted huarache model” and threatened legal action against Chavarria. Oaxacan legislator Isaias Carranza, of Indigenous Zapotec descent, also accused the brand and designer of misappropriating a distinctive cultural element without consent.
The Ministry of Cultures and Arts of Oaxaca condemned the move, calling it a “violation of our collective rights” and demanded Adidas halt sales, publicly acknowledge the sandals’ Indigenous origin, and engage in dialogue with the Yalalag community for redress.
The case adds to a growing list of disputes in Mexico over global brands using Indigenous designs without permission, with Shein, Zara, and Carolina Herrera facing similar backlash in recent years.
Adidas has not yet responded to the allegations.
