Espiritu Co-Op

Honoring the Craft of the Huarache

In Sahuayo, Michoacán, Mexico—referred to as the “City of Huaraches”—a rich tradition of fine Mexican craftsmanship is flourishing, in part due to Espiritu Co-Op. Co-founders Francisco Alvarez and Oscar Yapor, both 27 years old and originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, started this venture with a mission-driven approach. Their goal is to empower communities and preserve cultural traditions, transforming what began as a small initiative into a meaningful business.

 

Every pair of Espiritu huaraches is handmade in Sahuayo, a city known for artisans who have mastered intricate weaving techniques for generations. Espiritu is not just about craftsmanship; it also creates opportunities for those in need. Through a partnership with the Mexican government, Espiritu provides jobs to women who are escaping difficult circumstances, including those transitioning from incarceration, rehabilitation, homelessness, or domestic violence. This initiative has helped immigrants and survivors of domestic violence rebuild their lives while preserving invaluable cultural traditions.

Espiritu stands out as remarkable not just for the quality of its huaraches, but for the story each pair tells. With every purchase, customers support sustainable practices, ethical craftsmanship, and a mission to give back. Through a pay-per-pair woven model, over 240 families in Sahuayo earn fair wages, ensuring that the artistry of huarache-making continues to thrive. When you wear a pair of Espiritu huaraches, you step into footwear that embodies generations of skill, culture, and resilience.