Fenders

[Simpo Two]

Having noticed with some surprise that one of my boat fenders is flat instead of round, I wondered why they aren't made of foam rubber.

Is there a reason or have I just stumbled on my next million?

[telford_mike]

Not sure what sort of vessel you're using them on, but for biggish boats they have a very hard life and I'd guess the inflatable ones provide better protection than a foam filling would. Having said that, if you could invent a fender that could easily be deflated for storage and inflated for use then you may indeed be onto you next million

[Simpo Two]

Just a 27' cruiser, about 3 tons (storage not required as they stay in position)

[Sonie]

Wont foam rubber be heavy on the guard rails of boats?

[Simpo Two]

It depends on the boat - on mine they hang from the gunwales.

[ecsrobin]

A lot of the 1/4 ton yachts use these http://www.tcschandlery.co.uk/mobile/plastimo-ultr...

[Simpo Two]

Not sure how squashy those are, but if like a kneeler, then that kind of stuff but in a 6" cylinder...

Getting warmer: http://www.ultralon.co.nz/foam-products