: I would be concerned that a thin, stiff, skin would be more susceptable to
: puncture than a more elastic skin. The elastomeric coatings allow more
: movement between the fibers, allowing point loads to be spread over a
: larger area.

Kevlar by itself is pretty puncture resistant, and a thin layer of epoxy is rather flexible, nonetheless, I share your concern.

The answer will be revealed when someone builds one of these and paddles it for a few years. Either it works (despite our worries), or it fails. If it succeeds then the issues of cost and optimal thickness of fabric, and best coating come into play. Actually, if it fails, you get some of the same issues, as the question that arrises is "What if . . .?" (coating, fabric weight, etc.)

In addition to the hypalon and neoprene coatings, a urethane coating is possible, too.

Ultimate puncture resistance may not be a necessary goal. After all, the original skins for these types of boats came from animals that were killed by puncturing them with harpoons and spears.

PGJ