Oakley Sunglasses and Performance Gear

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 brand first gained traction with a specialized motorcycle grip. It soon pivoted to motocross goggles and eventually revolutionized the sunglasses market with high-definition optics and durable, futuristic designs.

Today, Oakley's manufacturing is a global operation. While its most iconic 'Made in USA' heritage remains a core part of its identity, particularly for certain premium frames and lenses produced in Foothill Ranch, California, significant portions of its production have shifted. Following its acquisition by the Italian eyewear giant Luxottica (now EssilorLuxottica), manufacturing is distributed across facilities in Italy, China, and other specialized locations to meet global demand.

Ownership of the brand transitioned in 2007 when Luxottica Group S.p.A. acquired Oakley for approximately $2.1 billion. In 2018, Luxottica merged with the French lens manufacturer Essilor to form EssilorLuxottica. This merger created a vertically integrated powerhouse that controls everything from lens technology and frame design to retail distribution, securing Oakley’s position as a dominant force in the premium eyewear industry through 2026 and beyond.