Composite materials are synthetic materials used in kayaks with the intent of improving performance and weight. Commonly used are fiberglass and carbon fibers.
Composite kayaks are the fastest, most responsive, and lightest kayak made today. But this comes at a significantly higher price. The production process is somewhat similar to thermoform kayaks. Layers of composite materials are put on one another, heated, and then pulled down onto a mold.
The deck and hull are made separately and joined together afterward. They are pretty tough and durable, but a sharp hit by a rock, for example, can damage the hull. Luckily, they are not that difficult to repair. Also, you don’t have to worry about damage from UV rays.