Gauchos Wordmark Logo

Since its inception in 1958, the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos have proudly represented their university and community with a unique logo that has evolved over time. The iconic wordmark logo is one of the most recognizable symbols associated with UCSB and has become synonymous with school pride.

The original design featured a cowboy hat atop two crossed lassos, which was meant to signify strength and resilience. This classic symbol quickly gained traction among students, faculty members, alumni, and fans alike as it provided an instantly recognizable representation of UCSB’s spirit.

In 1994 the design underwent a major update when graphic artist Richard Kegler redesigned it for use on clothing items such as t-shirts and hats sold at campus bookstores across California. His new interpretation included two curved lines below “Gauchos” that were meant to represent waves crashing against rocks—a nod to both UCSB's close proximity to beaches along the Pacific Coastline as well as its strong academic standing throughout California universities.

Today this updated version remains in use by all official departments within UC Santa Barbara including athletics teams like basketball or soccer clubs who feature it prominently on uniforms or merchandise items like mugs or keychains available online through various vendors worldwide! It also continues being utilized by many unofficial student organizations looking to show off their support for Gaucho pride while representing themselves around town too!

Overall there can be no doubt that this timeless icon is an integral part of what makes up UCSB culture today - from sports teams & clubs all way down to individual supporters wearing apparel featuring our beloved mascot: Gooo Gouchooo!!!