What you really want is a penetrating-type of product that will last for a year or two. These kinds of products go on milky white with a sprayer and then disappear. When it's dry and not raining, you wouldn't know it's even there. We know, Marc. But seriously, these products bring out the natural beauty of the wood, no cover-up.
Some people prefer a different look.
For that, try staining. There are decking stains. Cabot's calls theirs 'made to be walked on,' because there are different properties on these things. Regular stains will wear off as people walk on them. In terms of looks, the clear wood products will give you the natural beauty of the wood.