Mexican-American clothing designer Willy Chavarria has apologized for an Adidas sandal that he created after being accused by Mexican authorities of “cultural appropriation” for copying an indigenous shoe design.

Adidas has apologised after Mexico accused it of cultural appropriation by releasing a sandal based on a style made by indigenous people.

The sandal was created by U.S. designer Willy Chavarría for Adidas Originals. Its thin leather, braided straps bare an uncanny resemblance to the Mexican huaraches, but instead of flat leather soles, the Adidas version has a chunkier, sporty sole.

Mexican authorities have accused Adidas of plagiarizing Mexican artisans with a new sandal design similar to Indigenous huaraches.

Mexican officials say sportswear giant took design idea from Indigenous community in country’s southern Oaxaca state.

The Mexican state of Oaxaca is threatening legal action against Adidas, accusing the footwear company of cultural appropriation over a newly unveiled shoe that resembles a traditional handmade sandal.

The brand's Oaxaca Slip-On was criticized by Mexican officials for copying design elements present in Mexican Huarache sandals

German sportswear brand Adidas has apologized for "cultural appropriation" in the design of its "Oaxaca Slip-On" shoe. The Indigenous-inspired design attracted criticism in Mexico, including from President Sheinbaum.

Mexican American designer Willy Chavarria's Oaxaca Slip On faced criticism for using a traditional Indigenous design for a product made in China.