Outdoor Brand Logo: The Falling Coast Case Study
This case study details the creation of an outdoor brand logo for Falling Coast, a company in the competitive watersports market. The project is a perfect example of translating a unique product (modular paddleboards) into a symbolic and modern brand identity suitable for the outdoor lifestyle sector.
The Challenge: A Modern Outdoor Brand Logo
The brief for this project was to create an identity in keeping with leading outdoor activity brands. A core creative challenge was to design an emblem that consisted of three distinct components, reflecting the three parts of the company’s unique modular paddleboards.
The key was striking the careful balance between ruggedness and modern appeal—a common requirement in this design niche.
Design Rationale: Creating a Symbolic Sports Logo
The design process for this outdoor brand logo involved exploring both literal and abstract concepts, with the client ultimately choosing a more evocative and intelligent solution.
An Abstract & Evocative Emblem
Instead of a literal drawing of a paddleboard, the final emblem is an abstract representation of a “falling coast” line or a cliff face. This mark is constructed from three distinct geometric shapes, directly and intelligently answering the main requirement of the client’s brief. This abstract approach gives the logo a more timeless and sophisticated feel.
Hidden Details & Deeper Meaning
The strength of this design lies in its hidden details. When the emblem is rotated anti-clockwise, it subtly forms the initial ‘F’ for the brand name. Furthermore, the inclusion of small wave lines at the base transforms the shapes into rocks jutting from the sea. These layers of meaning add a sense of discovery and intelligence to the brand mark, creating a more engaging experience for the viewer.
The Outcome: A Unique Outdoor Brand Logo
The final Falling Coast logo design successfully fulfilled a challenging and specific brief. The result is a sophisticated, modern, and symbolically rich identity that gives the brand a unique and memorable mark to compete effectively in the outdoor sports market.
Alternative Concepts Explored
My comprehensive logo design packages include exploring multiple design routes to ensure the final direction is the strongest. For Falling Coast, this included several concepts, and I’ve picked out a couple of my favourites below:
These alternative designs are Copyright of Martin Williams at Pixel Freak Creative.
The first is a more illustrative concept that also cleverly forms the letter ‘F’. This three-segmented mark features the figure of a paddleboarder riding a wave, which forms the middle arm of the ‘F’.
It’s an amazingly fluid design and highly adaptable; the paddleboarder could be switched for a surfer, a swimmer, or even a leaping dolphin. This versatility means it can be easily tailored to a different brand, which is why this logo is now available for sale (and ready to be adapted as you require) here.
These alternative designs are Copyright of Martin Williams at Pixel Freak Creative.
The second alternative shown here also forms an ‘F’ but is packed with different hidden elements.
The top arm of the letter represents the “falling coast,” with small rock details appearing to roll down its edge. The middle arm is shaped like a powerful wave with a paddleboard silhouette resting on top, and the bottom arm becomes a third, more subtle wave, completing the scene and the overall “F” letter-form.
Does Your Outdoor Brand Need a Unique Identity?
This Falling Coast project shows how a strategic approach can create a powerful brand story. If you need a logo that sets your brand apart in the competitive sports and outdoor market, explore my specialist sports logo design services.
