Redesigning the Grindr logo

Mask4Masc

The Grindr logo quickly became an iconic symbol within the gay community. While I wasn’t part of the original design team, I’ll share some background on its origins, the inspiration behind it, and my approach to refreshing a logo that holds significant cultural meaning in the tech space.

The mask

At first glance, a mask can be a disguise, a form of expression, or a layer of protection. But it can also feel bold, powerful, and a little rugged. In Grindr’s case, the mask adds an edgy, masculine quality. While often compared to a gimp mask, it also carries a sense of dominance. More intentionally, the design draws inspiration from primal social networks and tribal connections, reinforcing the app’s role in bringing people together.

Exploring shapes

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, and for the Grindr logo, every detail mattered. The shape of the mask, the curve of the eyes, and their tilt all played a role in evoking different emotions. The challenge was finding the right balance—modern and mature, inviting yet bold, with just the right amount of edge.

Refining the shape

After the team settled on a few final mask shapes I fine tuned angles, eye shapes, eye positions, and potential mask embellishments.

Typography explorations

Final logo

The team eventually merged two concepts together to create the final logo. A hybrid of the structured mask shape with softer, rounded eyes along with the custom font in title case that kept the lockup feeling friendly and modern.