Kevlar

There are several types of Kevlar, but Kevlar 49 is the most common type used in kayaks. It is an aramid fiber that is very strong and tough. Kevlar is a brand name belonging to DuPont and as such, should always be capitalized.

Kevlar used in a kayak is usually imbedded in cured resin. Unlike fiberglass, the fibers do not become transparent and they remain visible. Also unlike fiberglass, the fibers do not crack, they must be be torn, and they are very resistant to tearing. Kevlar is easily recognized due to its golden yellow colour. Finally, compared with fiberglass, Kevlar cloth is expensive.

It is said that sanding kevlar in the kayak building process can rough up Kevlar fibers, making them harder to seal under a later layer of resin.

Kevlar can be used on its own or mixed with layers of fiberglass or carbon fiber. You can also find Kevlar and carbon fiber interwoven into a single fabric.

All other things being equal, a Kevlar kayak will be stronger, tougher and lighter than a fiberglass kayak. Practically speaking, much depends on the quality of the design and of the construction. Most of the better makers of kayaks will produce satifactory, light Kevlar kayaks.