How to Tell Fake Oakley Glasses

"Where are Oakleys made?" is a frequently asked question — most likely because customers are trying to ensure they are getting real Oakley products. FramesDirect.com is an authorized dealer of Oakley eyewear products, so if you order from us you're 100% guaranteed to receive genuine Oakley glasses. Spotting fake Oakleys before you purchase them can prevent your getting a pair of inferior quality glasses. Read on to see how to tell you’re getting authentic Oakley glasses.

Are My Oakleys Genuine?

Oakley is an American brand that's been designed and engineered in California since the company's inception in 1975. For a long time Oakley manufactured all its products in the USA, many at the company’s headquarters in Foothill Ranch, California, which is famous for its architecture, (see the photo below).





Back then, an identifying mark of genuine Oakleys was a "Made in USA" stamp etched on the inside of the temple. But in 2007, when Oakley was bought by Luxottica, some eyewear components and finished products started being manufactured in other facilities in China and around the world.

Now it depends on which style of glasses you purchase., Some Oakley glasses are still made in the USA—like some special editions and most of the standard issue (military) editions. Sometimes the components are made overseas and assembled in the USA. But Oakleys are no longer exclusively made in the USA, so not having “Made in USA” designation does not indicate that the glasses are fake.

Though many Oakley products are no longer made in the USA, Oakley asserts that its products continue to meet the same rigorous and uncompromising standards for performance. Oakley continually monitors production and regularly tests components from all its factories to ensure the highest possible quality.

So while real Oakleys MAY be made in the USA, it's more likely these days that they will be made in China. But what are some other indicators that you're receiving the "real deal" when you get your hands on a new pair of Oakleys?

Price as a Barometer for Authenticity

If the price seems too good to be true, well, you know how the saying goes. Genuine Oakley glasses are sturdy, durable, high-quality eyewear, so be wary of any “deals” you find. Incredibly cheap or heavily discounted Oakley glasses are likely fake.

Check the frames

Oakley glasses should feel sturdy, with no loose parts or flimsy pieces. Genuine Oakley frames are quality-made with sturdy, pre-dyed plastic. In most cases, if the color is painted on the frames, they’re fake.

Look carefully at the shape of the letter "O" logo on the arms to make sure it matches official Oakley style. There should be no glue visible or flaking on the surface. The emblem should be fastened to the glasses—not painted on. Your glasses should also include an item number, or SKU, printed on the inside of the arm.

Check the Lenses

The Oakley “O” logo should not be present on the lenses of non-prescription glasses. Oakley occasionally releases special edition frames with words or emblems etched—not painted—on the lenses, but the O symbol has never made an appearance on the lenses.

Oakley lenses may include a static cling “P” to indicate polarized lenses, but this label would not contain any adhesive that may damage the lenses.

Check the box & label

Make sure the fonts and logos on the packaging match the sunglasses as well as the leaflet insert. The label on the box should include a barcode, style name, and description. Your Oakley glasses should also come with a certificate of authenticity and warranty card.

Check the cloth bag

Oakley glasses are shipped with a dust bag or case to protect them. The logo stitching should be neat and uniform and the material should have a smooth finish. Your glasses may be counterfeit if the cloth bag is missing or poor quality.

If you purchase glasses you believe are fake, contact Oakley to report the counterfeit. You may also report the fraudulent purchase to your bank, as you may be entitled to a refund.

If you have questions about ordering Oakley sunglasses online, contact one of our experienced opticians.

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