Laminate Choices
One size does not fit all....
If you’re looking for a choice that’s strong enough for most conditions and is at the most affordable price range, the Hand Laminated KCH (Kevlar Carbon Hybrid) will do the job. On the other hand, if you want to do a deeper dive, read on.
Some canoes will seldom strike a rock or submerged stump. Others will frequently scrape along on shallow streams and grind over beaver dams or oyster beds.
Still others may be the paddler's lifeline on remote, potentially hazardous, wilderness adventures. Slipstream offers construction options that will maximize the return on your investment in terms of strength and endurance while minimizing the weight penalty in pounds.
The Options
KCH
A Kevlar & Carbon Hybrid that’s 50% Kevlar and 50% Carbon. Durable enough for most paddlers. Capable of taking occasional scrapes and bumps with rocks, beaver dams, etc.
IBKCH
An Innegra, Basalt, Kevlar & Carbon Hybrid. The most durable laminate Slipstream offers (other than Custom). Intended for paddlers who expect to challenge their boat on shallow rocky streams, backwater trips, beaver dams, etc. IBKCH is about a pound heavier than KCH depending on the model.
CARBON
Pure Carbon is lightest in weight but it is the most vulnerable. Carbon boats are designed for deep water (floating rather than scraping rocks, etc.). Paddling over beaver dams and bouncing down shallow rocky streams will likely cause problems with a pure Carbon laminate.
