Oakley was founded by James Jannard in 1975 out of his garage with an initial investment of $300. It's based in Lake Forest, California, and a subsidiary of Italian company Luxottica based in Milan. The brand designs, develops and manufactures sports performance equipment and lifestyle pieces including sunglasses, sports visors, ski/snowboard goggles, watches, apparel, backpacks, shoes, optical frames, and other accessories. Most items are designed in house at their head office, but some countries hold exclusive designs relevant to their market. Oakley currently holds more than 600 patents for eyewear, materials, and performance gear.
