Kevlar and carbon fiber will hold up. I spent the first 15-18 years in a kevlar canoe. Scraches...aris from mariner sails calls that patina.

Just my 2 cent predictions:

Weight will end up around 38-45 lbs

If it goes past prototyping and proof of concept, production units will consist of hybrid construction of carbon exterior and Kevlar internal re-inforcing where needed.

Key connection points will have metal embedded

Price will be between $4500 and $6500 IF they are lucky and approach the mold development intelligently. If they approach it like most do, the selling price will be $6,000-8,000.

Kinda been there, done that.

best of luck to them, Phill

looks like they are getting close

20# with my bad back and shoulders would be great. Not everyone is young and strong.
The trend has been pushing the weight of kayaks, especially stable and high seat models into the 80# and higher range.
This is what keeps the competition on it's toes and thinking there wouldn't be a market would way off base.
Price would be the main concern, and the difference between a winner design or a major fail.
This may end up being a new trend in kayak construction as I see Jackson is already on board.
http://jacksonkayak.com/blog/2011/03/26/jackson-kayak-carbon-rock-star-freestyle/

hit a rock it goes rice krispie. snap crackle pop

It will have replaceable skid pads. It is true this yak would require some more caution when on the water. I have spent most of my life in a kevlar and carbon fiber canoe...no issues.

even mr. jackson at jackson kayaks says "Like all carbon/fiber hulls � from America�s Cup yachts to Sprint canoes and slalom kayaks � the lighter weight material does make the boat more vulnerable to damage especially in shallow, rocky whitewater.
�Hit a rock and you risk breaking it; hit enough rocks and you WILL break it,� Jackson warned. Repair is possible with epoxy and any type of Kevlar, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, but Jackson advises to keep the boat off the rocks."

so although the light weight is nice. the price tag and durability would concern me. santa cruz has a nice looking yak. i just like to throw my yak around without worrying i'm going to crack a 4000 or more yak. bring the price down to 2500 or so i'd bet it would sell great.

I want one! Now just when it will be produced!?

Where do I put my money down on a full Carbon Native Slayer 13? That'll make me a happy boy for sure!!!

Any update to this Christian?

Yes. Both halves are made. Its getting very close.

If you drop the weight by 45#, then you increase your payload capacity by 45#. When you weigh over 250# and you like to bring some tackle, that could be a noticeable difference.

It makes up for my darn castnet. Hahaha