During the 1970s Clarks investment in technological research paid off, when the introduction of polyurethane as a soling material brought unique comfort benefits to Clarks consumers. Incredibly lightweight, yet virtually indestructible, P.U. technology formed the basis of many successful product ranges, from polyveldts in the ‘70s to the latest Active Air and Springers products which incorporate air cushioning deep inside their P.U. soles. Clarks enjoyed significant growth in the U.K. through this period with the establishment of a major retail chain, and global expansion also accelerated, especially in the U.S.A. Today, 179 years after it all began, Clarks is now the No. 1 shoe retailer in the U.K. The leading U.K. children’s shoe brand The World’s No. 1 shoe brand.