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In a recent turn of events, sports apparel giant Adidas has publicly apologized for its Oaxaca sandal, a collaboration with US designer Willy Chavarriá that has sparked controversy in Mexico.
The design, a fusion of Adidas hiking shoes from the 1990s and the traditional Huarache sandal, was criticized for its problematic use of cultural heritage and disrespect towards indigenous heritage. The controversy took on political dimensions, joining a growing debate over cultural appropriation in Mexico.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the design, stating that it was more than a symbolic conflict. Chavarriá himself expressed regret for using the Oaxaca name without direct and meaningful collaboration with the community. The National Institute of Indigenous Peoples even threatened legal action, as the shoe was developed without the consent of the affected community.
Brands like Zara, Shein, and Carolina Herrera have previously been in the spotlight for similar issues, making the Oaxaca sandal controversy a lesson in the responsibility of international companies in handling cultural heritage.
After facing criticism in August 2025, Adidas and Chavarriá published a bilingual apology regarding the Oaxaca sandal. In the apology, Chavarriá acknowledged that involving the Oaxaca community was a mistake in his design process. The apology letter reaffirmed Adidas' commitment to work with Yalalag, the Zapotec village in Oaxaca where the traditional Huaraches originate, in a respectful dialogue that honors their cultural heritage.
Adidas also confirmed its recognition of the cultural richness of Mexico's indigenous peoples. In a meeting with local authorities, Adidas read an apology letter to the village residents of Yalalag. The company expressed its desire to engage in respectful dialogue in the future.
Since 2022, a federal law in Mexico protects indigenous designs and cultural expressions. The Oaxaca sandal collaboration serves as a reminder that inspiration without dialogue and fair participation is no longer sufficient for global brands. The case illustrates that involving the community and respecting their cultural heritage is essential for any collaboration that aims to honour cultural and artistic spirits.
As of now, the birth date of Willy Chavarriá, the designer involved with the Oaxaca sandal, is not provided in the available search results. Despite this, the Oaxaca sandal controversy has undoubtedly marked a significant milestone in the ongoing conversation about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting indigenous cultures.
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