OUR OPEN ROAD, An art adventure into the great unknown!

Foam E-Z customer, artist, world traveler, surfer, and adventurer Adam Harteau and his family are heading out on a year long expedition through Central and South America. Their ultimate goal is the southern most tip of the continent, encompassing 23,000 miles and visiting more than twenty countries. They'll be traveling in their VW Westfalia that is currently getting retro-fitted by GoWesty in Los Osos California. This adventure is a chance to experience "life on the road" as a family of three. They will be documenting their travels as they go via video and blog. Ultimately this trip will be the inspiration for Adam's next body of work to be exhibited upon his arrival home.

We are stoked to be donating the board building supplies for Adam to build two boards from start to finish. These surfboards will be will be one of kind art pieces meant to be ridden throughout their travels.

Check out their website to learn more about Adam, his family, their travels, and feel free to donate to their cause. We will be periodically be sharing updates of their travels as they become available.

Kelly Slater Trading Cards!

Just found this and thought it would be pretty cool to share. Since I was a huge baseball card collector when I was a kid these cards seriously perked my interest. Super cool honor for the eleven time champ. I have seen surfing trading cards in the past but they were always cheesy. Now that Upper Deck is involved the ante has been upped and these cards are going to be sick! Read below and see if you get as excited as me.

When it comes to trading cards, baseball has always been king. But things are changing as more and more collectors are looking for a trading card experience that features athletes who make their living off the diamond. Football, hockey, basketball, golf, MMA and even wrestling cards have all been popular, but now Upper Deck is excited to give sports fans a more extreme collecting option with surfing.

Upper Deck has been targeting pro surfer Kelly Slater for some time and was thrilled when the company was able to strike an agreement for image rights and autographs for new sports cards. One of the key points to striking a deal occurred when Slater learned Upper Deck wanted to include him in the company’s2012 All-Time Greats product. This release has a checklist of only twenty athletes including iconic superstars like Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky, Tiger Woods, LeBron James, Dan Marino, Landon Donovan, Mike Tyson and Pete Rose to name a few. Kelly Slater will now be a part of that impressive checklist of superstars.

Will Upper Deck add more surfers to the company’s product line up in the future? We’ll have to continue to asses how stoked the grommets, gremmies and locals are when they pull their Kelly Slater Upper Deck cards showing him ripping it up! Hopefully even the kooks like them.

The “Shining Through” inserts in 2012 Upper Deck All-Time Greats includes some light f/x foil on the front which gives the card a very shiny look.

The Goodwin Champions line of cards is currently in the market and Kelly’s autograph cards in the set are selling in the $50-$75 range in the secondary market so there seems to be significant interest in them. It will be interesting to see how a more premium signed trading card of Slater’s sell when 2012 Upper Deck All-Time Greats releases this winter.

The Sound of Dust, Short Film About Tim Stamps!

Hey Cyber friends, we have a treat for you today! Our long time friend and customer Tim Stamps of Stamps Surfboards has a new short film, "The Sound Of Dust".  This cute short film gives us all a little insight into what it takes to be a professional shaper in this industry, as well as his love and dedication to his craft. The guys over at Hidden Notice did a great job creating this vid and keeping it real, honest, and personal. Check it out and show Stamps some well deserved love! 

Congrats Tim!

Poly Carbonate Shrink Wrap, The Future of Surfboards?

Matt Biolas of Mayhem Surfboards was invited to visit a cutting edge surfboard skunkworks in Southern France.
An old friend of his who was involved in the Saloman "S-Core" Surfboards years ago was waiting to show him what he has in store for us next.
From Matt Biolas "For years I have thought that a board could be finished with what I often refered to as "Plastic bottle glassing" and envisioned wrapping a blank with something to the effect of a clear plastic bottle. Not being an engineer, I never put any effort into seeing it become reality, rather patiently wait for some one else to do the hard work and then bring it to us…and down the line…to all. To some degree the wait is over. Not yet perfected by any means, but definitely ready for some RnD , JAB surfboards have created a process to "finish" custom,hand shaped PU blank surfboards with a Polycarbonate (What most our sunglasses and Jet airplane canopies are made of) skin.The stuff is incredibly strong and resistant of impact dents and puncture holes, but at the same time, it feels soft under foot (like a hand glassed board as opposed to sandwich construction) The material lacks the tensile snap and rigid livley pop of a a board with fiberglass fibers, but there are many ideas on how to recreate the feel of a glassed blank that will be played with moving forward. Light, incredibly strong, shockingly environmentally friendly, low cost , recyclable and designed to be locally made…..the clock is ticking."

A hand shaped, PU blank finished, not "glassed" with a Polycarbonate "shrink wrap" skin. Note the seam on the top of the rail.

The deck being wrapped with 1mm clear polycarbonate skin. The pre heated material is softened and forced down and around the blank with considerable pressue. The blanks need to sit on a rocker bed to hold their shape.The graphics are inkjet applied onto the skin before it is applied.

Another view. The leash plaug and Future or FCS fusion fin systems are inserted into the blank ahead of time.

1 of 2

Fairly simple machinery. Note the hole in the polycarb where the board used to be. The board is cut out, and the remaining excess material is tossed into a hopper and broken down for reuse..the is essentially no waste. No fumes, no VOCs, no nuthing….

The bottm edge is cut with a special tool that doesnt cut the foam..only the wrap. Its pretty easy to set a decent edge in the tail, but fine tuning afterwards should net a true hi performance edge where needed.

Remember "Shrinky Dinks"?

Pascal, with a finished board.

Ohana Kemp Fest

This past weekend we caught up with one of our long time customers Dennis Kemp of Ohana Kemp Surfboards! Every July Dennis and his family put on a free all day event at Doheny State Beach for any and all to come and enjoy free food and drinks (Breakfast and lunch and BEER).The event features a surf contest with secret judges on the beach, a Bocce Ball Tournament, a board swap, live Polynesian dancers, and a massive raffle. The raffle items consisted of 6 Ohana Kemp longboards, and we donated a blank and 5 hours of professional shaping lessons. A new board bag was also included to carry your new self-shaped stick!

What more could you ask for on a perfect summer day? Hope to see you all at next years event!

Johnny

Removable Fins, The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread!!!

Fins are perhaps the most overlooked aspect of surf equipment. Sure we call our boards thruster or twinnies, but the conversation then quickly moves to the sexy outline, dimensions, and volume. Fins are an after thought and since an extra pair can set you back nearly $100 bucks, it’s an easy component to your board’s overall performance to forget about.

However as you will learn in this episode of Surf Sufficient with USA team coach and surfboard designer Sean Mattison, the configuration, rake and surface area of your fins can radically change the character of your board. All of a sudden $100 bucks seems a lot cheaper than buying that extra stick when the waves get more punchy. Plus a good set of fins will usually outlast the life of your average surfboard. So on your next session, take a few sets of fins down to the beach. Getting your board dialed with different performance options will save you car space, money and help you learn more about surfboard hull performance by isolating the fin variable from the equation.

Check the "Dial In Your Fins"video from our buddies at Korduroy.tv.

Our Website Got Plastic Surgery!!!

We got a facelift! Actually, our website got a facelift, and it's actually more of a transplant. I know that sounds gross but it's true, we scrapped the old website and built a brand new one that's super easy to use and fun to navigate.

We've added a videos page, enhanced product viewing, new services, shaping lessons, re-vamped our shaping and glassing kits, added the Facebook Frenzy to the mix, created new shaping products and much, much more…whew!  You can even get current surf reports, tides, weather, wind, and forecasts for almost any spot in the US on our Surf Alerts Widget! 

Just check out the links, snoop around the new site, and get in the mix with Foam E-Z.

New ThermoTech Fin Material From Futures Fins!

Futures Fins are excited to introduce the new F series of ThermoTech fins. The series contains F2, F4, F6, and F8, which cover pretty much any weight from very small to large. The F series are balanced templates that are designed to work for all surfers in a variety of conditions. Each fin’s flex and resiliency has been precisely controlled by quantifying their flex on our fixture, and matching the resin composite, glass fiber content, and the geometry of the fin to each other. We are stoked with the results. The fin’s solid base directly transfers power, while the tip is still flexible and resilient allowing it to bend and load up. The ThermoTech fins come with the Futures Truss Base which makes them lighter, and they are designed to break under impact reducing the risk of injury.

Not only do these fins look great, in fact, in a board they look like a glass on. Most importantly, they feel unbelievably smooth and the performance is incredible. These fins do not have the traditional plastic feel of a composite fin. Instead, they have a very consistent flex that holds well off the bottom then loads up and releases through turns.


The new F2, F4, F6, and F8 templates are all derivatives of the F4 template which has a full base and tip.  The F2 is the grom template; the F4 is the existing template in the small category.  The F6 is a medium size template that can be used in place of the JC1 or the EA.  The F8 is a large template that would be similar, with the exception of the trailing fin, to the AM2.  These fins are 100% made in the USA under a completely controlled environment with the highest attention to detail.    

In addition to the new ThermoTech fins we have this little video with Grant (from our shop) "The Fin Connoisseur" for you to enjoy.

Functional Art - Art That Is Designed To Get Wet!

Check out this video with long time customer Kevin Cunningham, an eco-conscious surfboard shaper from Rhode Island. Kevin's incorporating the marine debris he finds along local beaches into his board designs. Kevin's motto is he makes "Functional Art - art that is designed to get wet!"

Spirare Surfboards are made with a conscientious approach to both the surfboard as a functional device and to sustainable design. Whether boards are shaped from foam, wood, or a composite combination of both, Spirare strives to use the most eco-friendly materials and methods available without compromising on performance. For more info on Kevin's surfboards: http://spiraresurfboards.com

Tom's Creation Plantation DVD In Stock!

We just got this bitchen video in we're totally stoked on it.  It's got some great surfing, interviews, scenery, and great information on building Alaia's.  We have had a few of Jon Wegener Alaia Pawlonia Blanks in the shop and plan to have more coming up this summer.  Let us know if you're interested in building an Alaia and we'll supply you with the right Pawlonia wood from Jon Wegener.

From filmmaker Cyrus Sutton (Under the Sun and Riding Waves) comes a look at the Alai’a surfboard resurgence and the creative world of surfboard builder Tom Wegener.  With an innovative half surf film/ half shaping tutorial format,TOM’S CREATION PLANTATION shares Tom’s story while giving you the working knowledge to build your own Alai’a. Shot on location in Australia, Hawaii and California,this DVD pack features a surf film highlighting Alia’a surfing, an instructional in which Tom Wegener walks you through the steps of shaping your own Alia’a and a bonus piece in which his brother Jon goes over the essentials of Alia’a ding repair. Also included is Tutorial booklet, so you have a reference while shaping, as well as a postcard featuring imagery by Cyrus Sutton.



Tom Wegener and his brother Jon have opened the door to surfing’s future by reintroducing the Alai’a, an ancient wooden surf craft devoid of fins, foam or rocker. Alai’a surfers are redefining performance surfing with critical tube rides, long sweeping cutbacks and drifting 360’s while displaying a grace and flow that is unique to this friction-free craft.

The Tyler Warren Experiments- Trailer

Check out this cool trailer for movie coming out this year. It looks like it's gonna be pretty cool with some of the biggest shaping legends showing their skills and passing it on to today's shapers.

From the makers of “One California Day” (Mark Jeremias) and “Natural Expressions” (John Smart) comes a new feature length surf film documenting the evolution of a surfer and his craft.

Drawing from 50 years of design inspiration, the Tyler Warren Experiments explores Tyler’s surfing, influences, and interest in board design through collaboration with a number of today’s most respected craftsmen.

Shot on location in Australia, California, Indonesia, Mexico, and Morocco, the film features (in alphabetical order): The Campbell Brothers, Manuel Caro, Chris Christenson, Skip Frye, Josh Hall, Devon Howard, Terry Martin (RIP), Dave Rastovich, Joel Tudor, Christian Wach, and more.

For more info please visit their website

Clark Foam T-shirts Are Back!

If you know a little bit about surfboard building history then you know about our history with Clark Foam. Foam E-Z was one of Clark's top surfboard blank re-sellers in the world! We received that infamous fax on the morning of Dec 5th 2005, considered Black Monday in the surf industry. The fax basically said that Clark Foam was shutting down. The mad scramble for surfboard blanks ensued as no one knew where they would get foam from once Clark's stock ran out.

The Clark Foam Tee was a coveted icon of all professional shapers. The Clark Foam Factory was only allowed to give these tees out to direct customers (shapers). Around the holidays the Clark Foam trucks would roll up to their various drop offs with boxes of the Clark Foam Tee's to hand out to the shapers. These t-shirts were extremely hard to come by but now they are being offered to the public.

These are the original, authentic, Clark Foam Tee Shirts! Short sleeve and available in navy with white logo.

WE HAVE A WINNER FOR APRIL!!! Sean Carter Is The Lucky Customer!

Thanks to our wonderful Foam E-Z Employees Johnny “Utah” Kahanu and Tiernan “Crazy Face” Backer for making this pic possible. We love having fun and reading through all of your comments. This month’s winner is Sean Carter with, “I'd call that a 3rd Quality Blank. How Much?” Sean wins his choice of 4 hours of shaping lessons or a $100 Gift Certificate.

Next month if we can get over 100 comments and break 1000 page likes then we’ll be throwing in some additional awesomeness for you guys…which translates into more Winners…which means you’ll have a better chance of winning…which means you’ll be happier…which means people might actually like being around you!

Thanks for playing, and remember to check back throughout the month for shop, product, and video updates.

April's Facebook Frenzy Is On At Foam E-Z!!!

Here is the Foam E-Z Facebook Frenzy pic for April. As you all know we have a large selection of blanks on hand at Foam E-Z...If we can get over 100 unique comments and get to 1000 total likes then we'll be throwing down some additional prizes. Spread the word and get your friends in on the action so you'll have a better shot at winning! Let the comments begin!!!

That's right Foam E-Z's Facebook Frenzy for April is live! Here's the rules: As before, we will pick one lucky person to win FOUR (4) FREE Hours ($200 Value) of Shape Lessons or $100 Gift Certificate good for anything at the shop (winners choice). The winner will be announced on Monday April 30th.

We will be running this promotion the last week of every month through 2012.

Laylan From The OC Register Came By To Learn To Shape A Board!!!

A few weeks back Laylan Connelly, OC Register Writer, stopped by the shop to learn to shape her own board. She came in with no knowledge of the shaping process and very little experience working with her hands. Approximately four hours later, Laylan along with instruction from Chris Carrozza (Shaping Instructor at Foam E-Z) crafted a nice looking Fish board. After designing her own custom logo she brought the shaped blank to Tim Stamps to get the board glassed. When the board was done Laylan's next step was to take her creation out in the water. According to Laylan the board feels great she just needs some time getting used to riding a short board.

Videographer, KJ, came along to shoot Laylan's experience at the shop and the below video is the result. Thanks to everyone for all their help and thanks to girls for putting up with us during the process!

Are You a Super Shredder?

I only have one questions for you, "Are you a super shredder?" Masayoshi Takanaka is, and here's the video to prove it. We here at Foam E-Z like fun, interesting, weird, and progressive surfboards. I'm not sure how this board will surf with a big hole in the middle of it, but it's pretty rad to see the craftsmanship that went into this instrument of the ocean and stage. I personally prefer less nose rocker, but then again, I can't wail out a tune on my surfboard like Masayoshi can. Enjoy!

WE HAVE A WINNER FOR MARCH!!! Jessica James Jacques Is The Lucky Customer!

You guys killed it this month therefore we have two winners! The over all winner is Jessica James Jacques since she had the closest guess with 270 keys (actual was 272). The “Best Comment” winner is Jason Floyd for “You might want to lay off the coffee bro, you're a little keyed up!”

Jessica wins her choice of 4 hours of shaping lessons or a $100 Gift Certificate. Jason Floyd is now the proud owner of a set of Futures Fins MB1! If you guys keep the comments rolling then we’ll keep the prizes flowing, so tell your friends about Foam E-Z's Facebook Frenzy.



Don't forget it takes place at the end of each month. Make sure to check our Facebook Page between giveaways for shop, product, and sale updates.

Thanks for playing!

Foam E-Z's Facebook Frenzy For March Is On!!!

Here it is guys/gals, Foam E-Z's Facebook Frenzy is on again! It's live as of today March 26th, all you have to do to enter is go to our Facebook page and Like Us. For this months contest you have TWO tasks, one to guess how many Futures Fins keys are on the vest and two write a caption.

That's right Foam E-Z's Facebook Frenzy for March is live! Here's the rules: As before, we will pick one lucky person to win FOUR (4) FREE Hours ($200 Value) of Shape Lessons or $100 Gift Certificate good for anything at the shop (winners choice). The winner will be announced on Monday April 2nd.

We will be running this promotion the last week of every month through 2012.

Good Luck!

Is It A Mustache Or A Spokeshave?

Enjoy this video from our series, Informative Foam E-Z Product Tutorials. These videos are not only informative but they are meant to be fun too. I always thought the Mini Spokeshave looked like a mustache so this was a perfect opportunity to give it a spin!

The Mini Spokeshave was one of the original tools we carried dating way back to 1995. Back then, this tool was made by the famous X-Acto brand. That's right the same company that make the X-Acto Knives we've been using for art projects since we were kids. The Mini Spokeshave has been one of our most consistent sellers over the years, since most shapers can't live without one! Matter a fact, most professional shapers own two or three of the little buggers. They have a tendency to get lost then reappear when sweeping up the room. There really is no other tool that you get such bang for the buck. This little tool does a very big job in the surfboard shaping process.

We hope you enjoy the video. Stay tuned for more Informative Foam E-Z Product Tutorials in the weeks to come.

2nd Annual Adler Paddler This Saturday March 17th

We are proud to announce that the 2nd annual ADLER PADDLER will be back for 2012!

WHEN: MARCH 17th St. Patty’s Day 9am

WHERE: Belmont Shores, Long Beach Ca. (same spot as last year)

WHAT: A FREE 2.8 mile SUP & Prone Paddle Race/ Fun Paddle around Naples Island

WHY: To Remember our good friend Steve Adler and raise funds and awareness for the John Ritter Foundation and the Thoracic Aortic Disease Coalition

The second annual Adler Paddler is Saturday, March 17 – on St. Paddy’s Day - so mark your calendars and come out to support.

Steve Adler passed away at 40 from an undiagnosed thoracic aortic dissection two years ago. The well-known glasser who grew up in the Long Beach area was making strides in the Stand Up Paddle community when he unexpectedly collapsed while working.

Adler has a teenage son, Clark, and Steve’s mom will have a table with baked goods to raise money for his college fund. Proceeds from the paddle and raffle will go to the John Ritter Foundation. Ritter also passed away from a similar condition.

Amy Yasbeck will be at the event and will be signing copies of “WITH LOVE AND LAUGHTER,” about life with her late husband.
All books, raffles, and T-shirt sales proceed are all going directly to the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic health.

The event is a free, 2.8-mile SUP and Prone Paddle Race and fun paddle around Naples Island in Long Beach. It kicks off at 9 a.m.

Last year, nearly 90 dedicated paddlers showed up in strong winds, choppy waters and pouring rain to show support and do the paddle. Nearly $8,000 was raised.

Any questions e-mail info@thesupspot.com, or for more info go to www.PADDLEWITHPURPOSE.COM