US Edition
Mexico wants Adidas to pay up after Mexican-American designer launches Indigenous-inspired shoe
MEXICO, AUG 9 – Mexico demands Adidas compensate Indigenous artisans after the unauthorized use of Zapotec huarache designs in the Oaxaca Slip-On sandal, highlighting new legal protections for cultural heritage.
- Mexican authorities accused Adidas on August 9, 2025, of plagiarizing Indigenous artisans by releasing the Oaxaca Slip-On sandal inspired by traditional huaraches.
- The controversy arose after Adidas and designer Willy Chavarría presented the sandal, incorporating Zapotec cultural elements from Villa Hidalgo de Yalalag without clear community authorization.
- Oaxaca officials demanded Adidas withdraw the shoe, issued a public apology, and described the design as cultural appropriation potentially violating Mexican law.
- Governor Salomón Jara Cruz stated, 'Culture isn't sold, it's respected,' while President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed Adidas is negotiating compensation and the government is preparing legal reforms to protect handicraft artisans.
- The case highlights ongoing efforts by Mexico to curb unauthorized use of Indigenous designs, important for the handicraft economy that supports half a million people and 10% of several states' GDP.
252 Articles
252 Articles
Los Angeles Times
Independent EspañolAccording to the Mexican authorities, the multinational model has elements that form part of the cultural heritage of Zapotec indigenous communities in the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca.
Adidas is under pressure in Mexico. The government accuses the sporting goods manufacturer of cultural appropriation, as a sandal model copies traditional sandals of the indigenous community. Mexico's president examines legal action against the company.
Mexico accuses the German equipment manufacturer of plagiarism with his model called "Oaxaca Slip-On", and seeks compensation for a community in the state of Oaxaca.
Mexico accuses American designer Willy Chavarria of using the name of the state of Oaxaca to name a model of German equipment manufacturer
Designer regrets Adidas 'appropriated' traditional Mexican sandals
MEXICO CITY: US fashion designer Willy Chavarria said Saturday he regrets that sandals he created together with Adidas “appropriated” a traditional design from the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. © New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
For the design of an Adidas-Sandale, Willy Chavarria was inspired by a traditional design from the Mexican state of Oaxaca – and caused indignation. Now he expressed his regret.
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