Mexico has raised concerns against global sportswear company Adidas over a new shoe design that closely resembles traditional Indigenous footwear from the southern state of Oaxaca.
The design in question is the Oaxaca Slip-On, recently released by Adidas in collaboration with US-based fashion designer Willy Chavarria, who has Mexican roots.
Authorities in Mexico argue that the design is nearly identical to huaraches, a handmade sandal crafted by Indigenous artisans, particularly from the village of Villa de Hidalgo Yalalag.
The Mexican government says Adidas used the cultural design without permission or proper recognition of the community responsible for its origin.
Officials argue that such creations are considered collective cultural property and cannot be used commercially without involving or compensating the source communities.
They maintain that companies should not profit from traditional craftsmanship without entering into agreements with the original creators.
President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the issue in a public briefing, stating that steps are being taken to examine legal measures to protect Indigenous rights in this case.
Mexico’s cultural authorities are backing the efforts of Oaxaca officials, who are requesting accountability from Adidas.
The governor of Oaxaca, Salomon Jara Cruz, expressed dissatisfaction with the shoe’s release, which features the woven upper portion of huarache sandals combined with a modern sneaker sole.
According to local reports, the country’s National Institute of Indigenous Peoples is planning to launch a formal legal complaint and is calling for public support.
Adidas representatives have reportedly agreed to hold discussions with state officials in Oaxaca, though no formal resolution has been announced yet.
This incident adds to growing global scrutiny over the use of Indigenous knowledge, art, and designs by major international brands without consent or compensation.