Oakley partners with Axiom Space for innovative astronaut visor system

In 2025, Oakley celebrated its 50th anniversary with significant innovations and partnerships, notably with Travis Scott as its chief visionary, making him the first non-athlete collaborator in the brand's history. This partnership marks a shift in Oakley’s branding strategy, incorporating a star figure from the music industry to appeal to a broader audience. The collaboration led to the unveiling of groundbreaking products, including AI-powered eyewear developed alongside Meta AI, which integrates advanced technology and design to enhance performance and functionality for users. Additionally, Oakley announced an innovative visor system for the next generation of space suits in collaboration with Axiom Space. This development stems from the need to protect astronauts from intense solar radiation, which poses significant risks like dry eyes and cataracts. Oakley and Axiom Space worked meticulously for two years to create a helmet visor that not only mitigates radiation exposure but also improves contrast and visibility in space conditions. The visor incorporates real gold for its ability to reflect infrared energy while allowing visible light to pass through, representing Oakley's commitment to detailed and functional design. The Oakley Ellipse 50th Anniversary design features an iconic element of the brand's identity, further emphasizing the fusion of innovation and style in their products. Nick Garfias, Oakley’s vice president of design, discussed how the company’s history in optics shapes its product architecture and advocates for performance tailored to athletes' needs. Oakley’s distinct approach avoids overt branding, emphasizing instead the innovative qualities of its designs as a statement of confidence in its market position. This strategy aligns with their vision of steering into the future of technology and design. Overall, Oakley’s foray into space innovation alongside partnerships with influential figures and organizations positions it as a leader in the intersecting domains of sports, technology, and space exploration. The combined efforts in design and functionality not only commemorate Oakley's legacy but also chart a course for future innovations that will impact both the terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments.