MEXICAN AUTHORITIES ACCUSE ADIDAS OF CULTURAL APPROPRIATION IN SANDAL DESIGN. (PHOTO).

 Mexican authorities accuse Adidas of cultural appropriation in sandal design

Mexican authorities have accused Adidas of plagiarizing traditional artisans from southern Mexico, claiming the company’s new sandal design closely resembles the Indigenous huaraches footwear. This allegation has sparked claims of cultural appropriation against the sportswear giant, with local officials urging Adidas to withdraw the controversial shoe model.

The disputed design, called the “Oaxaca Slip-On,” was created by U.S. designer Willy Chavarría for Adidas Originals. It features thin braided leather straps similar to the traditional Zapotec huaraches from Oaxaca’s Villa Hidalgo de Yalálag community, though with a thicker, athletic-style sole instead of the usual flat leather base. Mexican authorities say the design infringes on the cultural heritage of Indigenous artisans whose handicrafts provide vital income to hundreds of thousands of people and contribute significantly to the economies of states like Oaxaca, Jalisco, Michoacán, and Guerrero.

Oaxaca artisan Viridiana Jarquín García called the Adidas shoes a “cheap copy” that undermines the craftsmanship and tradition behind authentic huaraches. Local officials have demanded a public apology and the removal of the sandals from the market, labeling the design an act of cultural appropriation that could violate Mexican law. Governor Salomón Jara Cruz emphasized in a letter to Adidas that cultural expressions hold deep community identity and should be respected, not exploited for commercial gain.

In response, Adidas expressed respect for Mexico’s Indigenous cultural heritage and invited local authorities to discuss ways to “repair the damage” caused by the sandals. The controversy follows ongoing efforts by Mexico’s government and artisans to combat global brands accused of copying traditional designs without consent. While new regulations are being considered to better protect artists, officials also want to ensure that Indigenous creators can still collaborate fairly with major companies that have wide commercial influence.