Polyethylene plastic is inexpensive and abrasion-resistant, though it’s the heaviest option and the sun’s UV rays will degrade it after an extended time in the sun. (Store it in a covered location.)
ABS plastic: Slightly more expensive than polyethylene, it offers similar durability. The higher price gets you a slightly lower weight than polyethylene, plus some UV resistance. Thermoformed ABS boats’ distinctive two-tone designs come from having the deck and hull made separately then bonded together.
Composites: Lightweight fiberglass and ultralight carbon-fiber boats offer a huge leap in performance and price. UV rays aren’t a big concern with these materials, but a major impact with rocks can be.