**Clark Foam**
**Definition**
Clark Foam was a prominent American manufacturer of polyurethane surfboard blanks, widely recognized for revolutionizing surfboard production from the 1960s until its closure in 2005.
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**Clark Foam**
Clark Foam, founded by Gordon „Grubby” Clark in the early 1960s, was a leading producer of polyurethane foam blanks used in the manufacture of surfboards. The company played a crucial role in standardizing and industrializing surfboard production, providing consistent, high-quality foam cores that allowed shapers to create durable and performance-oriented boards.
### History and Impact
Before Clark Foam, surfboards were primarily made from balsa wood or hand-shaped foam, which often resulted in inconsistent quality. Clark Foam introduced a reliable, machine-produced foam blank that became the industry standard. This innovation helped popularize surfing worldwide by making surfboards more accessible and affordable.
### Closure and Legacy
In 2005, Clark Foam abruptly ceased operations due to regulatory pressures related to environmental and safety concerns. The closure caused a significant disruption in the surfboard industry, leading to shortages and increased prices. Despite this, Clark Foam’s influence remains evident, as many modern surfboard manufacturers continue to use foam blanks inspired by Clark’s designs.
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**Meta Description**
Clark Foam was a key American manufacturer of polyurethane surfboard blanks, instrumental in shaping modern surfboard production until its closure in 2005.