Oakley eyewear and apparel

Oakley is a world-renowned brand synonymous with high-performance eyewear and sports equipment. Founded in 1975 by James Jannard in his garage with an initial investment of $300, the company first gained fame for its innovative motorcycle grips before transitioning into goggles and sunglasses. The brand became a cultural icon in the 1980s and 90s, known for its futuristic designs and proprietary technologies like Plutonite lenses and Unobtainium materials.

Over the decades, Oakley has expanded its production footprint globally. While a significant portion of its premium eyewear development and manufacturing maintains a strong presence in the United States (specifically at its 'Interplanetary Headquarters' in Foothill Ranch, California), large-scale production is also conducted in Italy and China. In 2007, the brand underwent a major corporate shift when it was acquired by the Italian eyewear giant Luxottica, which later merged with Essilor to form the current parent entity, EssilorLuxottica.