Hand Laminated vs. Vacuum Infusion Process (VIP)
Hand Laminated
Hand Laminated hulls are just that — made by hand. The Slipstream method of hand laminating does not involve gel coat — gel coat adds considerable weight (3-7 pounds depending on model). Hand laminating requires an extremely high level of skill because the laminator is working blind and there is no gel coat to hide cosmetic blemishes. Hand laminated hulls are light in weight and tough enough for most paddlers. Resin is worked through the various materials (Kevlar, Innegra, Basalt, Carbon) by hand using brushes, rollers and squeegees. A skilled laminator can produce an ultralight yet reasonably strong hull.
Vacuum Infusion Process
Vacuum Infusion Process hulls are significantly different than hand laminated hulls. The resin to fabric ratio is better with VIP so the hull is noticeably stronger than hand laminated boats.
Cost for a VIP hull is higher than for hand laminated because of the requirement for extra materials in order to achieve the same degree of stiffness. The vacuum compresses the laminate more so than hand laminating. As a result, the laminate is thinner and not stiff enough to paddle properly. In order to achieve appropriate stiffness, extra layers of Kevlar, Innegra, etc. must be added to the laminate schedule. Each extra layer increases the strength of the hull yet the weight (due to the VIP Process) is the same or slightly less than hand laminated hulls. More layers equals more strength.
There are also increased supplies (costs) used (vacuum film, sealing tapes, flow media, peel ply, resin tubing, etc.) which are consumed in making VIP hulls.
Essentially, both methods of laminating are excellent when properly executed. Hand laminates will be less expensive and not quite as strong as VIP. VIP hulls cost more but offer a more hi-tech composite that is noticeably tougher.
