How Can This Be Sooo Hard?
Choosing our logo for Wild was so much harder than we thought. I wanted it to represent everything about the app but also to be friendly and inviting to the user.
We started out with a tree with long roots reaching into the earth, but this just seemed a little too ‘earthy’ and not enough ‘watery’ and also I think it was being over-used as an icon.
Then we moved to an otter, a wonderful water creature, playful, friendly, connected – did you know that sea otters hold hands while sleeping to prevent them from drifting apart. That seemed perfect, so I designed a logo and added the humorous strapline: “Wetter Than An Otter’s Pocket” – it made me smile and in my mind the decision was made.
I sent it around a few friends and some agreed with me, but one pointed out that the strapline could have sexual connotations and might encourage the less savoury in society to join our app. Well once you see that, you can’t unsee it so …
Meet Koda our adventurous mascot who’s always ready for a swim! And read why we chose him to guide us into the water.
Why A Bear Called Koda?
The symbolism of the bear represents strength, courage and resilience – qualities that align with the adventurous spirit of wild swimmers. They are natural explorers too, representing the exploration aspect of discovering new swimming locations.
They also, of course, symbolize a deep connection to nature, which again mirrors the essence of wild swimming. There is no better place to get up close and personal with nature than in the water. Often we go unnoticed, if we take a moment in stillness beneath the surface, allowing us to watch wildlife come and go and our minds to reset, it’s magical.
The word Koda means “friend” in Native American Languages, fostering a sense of community, something we are passionate about at Wild. There is simply nothing better than sharing a swim spot with a group of like-minded friends and we are excited to nurture this aspect of Wild Swimming through our app.
Rings of Water
The image of rings in water evokes a sense of calm and serenity, highlighting the peaceful and refreshing experience of wild swimming. Spreading out in the water to symbolize the growing community of wild swimmers, connecting with each other through shared experiences and expanding to represent the ripple effect, signifying the app’s potential to reach and impact a wide audience.
A Powerful Combination
The combination of Bear and Water emphasizes a natural, immersive experience, which is at the heart of wild swimming and the app’s purpose of a wild adventurous spirit.
It captures the essence of discovering new locations (explore), immersing in the flow of live and natural bodies of water (swim) and getting close to nature whilst engaging with a community (connect).
Just like Koda, our app encourages you to embrace the thrill of wild swimming, discover new and beautiful locations, and connect with a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts.
I hope you have enjoyed meeting Koda, our spirited bear mascot, who embodies the heart and soul of Wild.
