Liveries love 'em because they are impervious to abuse from most casual paddlers. Royalex is another plastic sandwich material used by numerous boatmakers. Because it is generally lighter than polyethylene but still very tough, Royalex is the preferred material for most whitewater canoeists. The biggest drawback for plastic-molded canoes is the limitations the manufacturing process places on design. You won't find the sharp lines and well-defined angles on composite boats, which can reduce performance under some conditions.
Plastic prices cover a broad range.
Manufacturers that rely on environmentally aware consumers to buy plastic have become sensitive about their eco-image. Old Town now advertises its ability to completely recycle polyethylene. No need to clog the landfills with old boats. When yours exceeds its lifespan, just put it out at the curb with the milk jugs and newspapers. Composites and wood Composites are the materials used for most of the high-end models in today's canoe market.