Willy Chavarria × Adidas made a huarache without Oaxaca — Mexico's president objected

Mexican-American fashion designer Willy Chavarria partnered with Adidas Originals to create the 'Oaxaca Slip-On,' a shoe inspired by the traditional leather huarache sandals made for centuries by the indigenous Zapotec people of Oaxaca, Mexico. The design was manufactured in China without consulting, crediting, or compensating the communities that originated the craft.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum publicly condemned the collaboration, stating that 'big companies often take products, ideas and designs from Indigenous communities.' Mexican officials said they were examining legal options. The criticism escalated into a global story covered by The New York Times, BBC, CNN, and other outlets.

The backlash forced Chavarria and Adidas to apologize. Chavarria issued a statement saying he was 'deeply sorry that the shoe was appropriated' and that it was not developed 'in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community.' Adidas removed promotional images and executives traveled to Villa Hidalgo Yalálag to deliver a spoken apology in person, committing to a future collaboration with local artisans.