Archive · 9 Aug 2025
Mexico Accuses Adidas of Cultural Appropriation Over Sandal Design
Imagine Adidas made a shoe that looked exactly like shoes made by people in Mexico, but they didn't ask for permission or give them any credit.
The Mexican government is upset because they think Adidas copied their designs.
The shoes, called 'Oaxaca Slip-On,' look like traditional sandals from Oaxaca.
The government says this is wrong and wants Adidas to apologize and stop selling the shoes.
Adidas has said they value Mexican culture and are talking with the government to fix things.
This is part of a bigger problem of companies taking ideas from other cultures without permission.
Mexican authorities accuse Adidas of cultural appropriation for its 'Oaxaca Slip-On' sandal design.
The design resembles traditional huaraches from Oaxaca, made by Zapotec Indigenous communities.
Officials, including Oaxaca's governor, demand Adidas withdraw the product and issue a public apology.
Adidas is in talks with Mexican authorities and has expressed a desire to 'repair the damage'.
This is part of a broader effort by Mexico to protect Indigenous designs from unauthorized use.
- Who
- Mexican authorities, including the Oaxaca governor and President, are involved; Adidas is the company accused.
- What
- Mexico accuses Adidas of cultural appropriation for a sandal design that resembles traditional huaraches.
- When
- The controversy arose recently, with Adidas responding to the accusations.
- Where
- The sandals are inspired by designs from Oaxaca, Mexico.
- Why
- Mexico is trying to protect Indigenous designs and cultural heritage from unauthorized commercial use.
Mexican Authorities and Artisans
Adidas
Cultural Appropriation
Mexican Authorities and Artisans
Adidas' design is a 'cheap copy' and uses elements of the Zapotec culture without permission or credit.
Adidas
Adidas values the cultural wealth of Mexico's Indigenous people and recognizes the concerns of cultural appropriation.
- Product Name
- Oaxaca Slip-On
- Company Accused
- Adidas
- Location of Inspiration
- Oaxaca, Mexico
- Traditional Design
- Huaraches
- Indigenous Community
- Zapotec
- Designer
- Willy Chavarría