Oakley blends science and art to redefine product categories by rejecting the constraints of conventional ideas. The company is recognized as one of the most coveted brands in performance technology and fashion. Its icon is embraced by the global culture of sport competitors who define their own lifestyle — the world-class athletes who exceed the limits of possibility.

AC:  How long have you been with Oakley and what do you like best about it?

KG:  I have been with Oakley for 14 years.  I like my Oakley family and the people I work with because I work with rad fun people who make my job interesting and exciting.  Love when we all get together for Oakley events!

AC:  How long has Oakley been making snow goggles?

KG:  This year is actually our 30 year anniversary of making goggles.  We began with the iconic grips, then sunglasses and eventually into snow goggles.  We were the first company to make non-distortion, or corrective, lenses.

AC:  What makes Oakley different?

KG:  Oakley has a constant focus on new technology and forward progress.  We always try to make products work better for athletes and thus everyone else who wears our goggles.

AC:  Where does the design inspiration come from?

KG:  Depends on the product.  Sometimes the cool lines or color of a car will inspire us, or the technology on a plane will get our attention, or it could be an idea one of the athletes gives us.  We use our neighborhoods as our canvas.

AC:  What’s your favorite thing about selling snow goggles?

KG:  A high quality goggle can greatly improve someone’s on-snow experience.  When someone uses a premium goggle for the first time, you can see the light bulb turn on.

AC:  Is there any youth specific line expansions planned for the future?

KG:  At this point, many kids wear “small face size” adult goggles.  We add to and improve our line every single year, which means more options for kids.   

AC:  What are the three pieces in this seasons (snow 12/what we currently have) collection that represent the line the best?

KG:  The Airbrake is a composite of all our best features in one goggle.  With the Signature Series goggles, we work closely with our athletes to develop styles and color palettes that really represent them.  The Shaun White series comes to mind.  Don’t forget about our rad caps!

AC:  You guys have a stacked team roster, how involved are athletes in the design process?

KG:  Extremely involved.  Our athletes are a huge part of our Research and Development process.  Constantly testing, evaluating, and providing feedback as new designs roll out.

AC:  Anything we missed?

KG:  No, Oakley’s relentless focus on technology, progression and athletes permeates all aspects of our business.

AC:  What would an Oakley kid eat for lunch?

KG:  Wheaties with Gretchen Bleiler on the box, of course!

AC:  What cartoon character should be on the Oakley team?

KG:  Superman and Wonder Woman; seems like they could use a good pair of goggles.