Adidas Apologizes for Shoe Copying Indigenous Huaraches

Adidas has issued a public apology after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the sportswear brand for releasing a shoe that replicated traditional Indigenous huarache sandals without crediting artisans.

The company said its “Oaxaca Slip-On” was inspired by a design from Oaxaca, rooted in the tradition of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag. “We offer a public apology and reaffirm our commitment to collaborate with Yalálag in a respectful dialogue that honours their cultural legacy,” Adidas said in a statement.

Launched five days ago in collaboration with Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarria, the slip-on features a black sneaker sole topped with the leather weave typical of huarache sandals. Chavarria said he was “deeply sorry that the shoe was appropriated in this design and not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community.”

Oaxaca officials had criticized the release, and Sheinbaum said her administration is exploring legal measures to support Indigenous communities whose designs are used by companies without recognition.

The controversy follows similar backlash faced by other global fashion brands, including Prada, which recently drew criticism in India for debuting a sandal resembling traditional Kolhapuri slippers without attribution.