Jim Jannard founded Oakley in 1975.
Jannard started the company in California, initially selling motorcycle grips and other equipment before Oakley expanded into goggles, sunglasses, and performance eyewear. The name came from Jannard’s dog, Oakley Anne. Oakley later became known for proprietary materials, wraparound designs, and products aimed at athletes and outdoor users.
The brand is sometimes misidentified as having begun as a sunglasses-only company. Its early business centered on motocross accessories, and eyewear became a major part of its identity later. Oakley is also distinct from Smith Optics, which has separate origins in ski goggles.
In 2007, Luxottica acquired Oakley, bringing it into the same corporate group as several major eyewear brands. That ownership change did not alter the historical fact that Jim Jannard founded Oakley in 1975.