According to critics, the “Oaxaca Slip On”, designed together with US designer Willy Chavarria, is strongly reminiscent of the traditional Huarache sandals from the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Local craftsmen were neither involved nor asked for approval that the product in China is manufactured.
Representatives of the Mexican government accuse the company of marketing cultural heritage without recognizing its origin. Adidas and Chavarria have now regretted it; According to his own information, the manufacturer is looking for a conversation with authorities and checks compensation.
According to its own statement, the company recognizes and appreciates the cultural wealth of the indigenous communities of Mexico and the importance of its manual inheritance. “The Oaxaca Slip-on was inspired by a design from Oaxaca that is rooted in the tradition of Villa Hidalgo Yalálag. We apologize publicly and confirm our obligation to work with Yalálag in a respectful dialogue that recognizes its cultural heritage.”
