After six paddles, all laminated with various woods and varying degrees of weight, I think that thinner asymmetrical need the 4 or 6 weight of glass to protect and strengthen the blade. I glassed one with 6 weight and it was really overkill. I finished one with oil and mineral spirits and I can tell the dings appear more rapidly. Epoxy sure provides the strength that soft wood needs to hold up. Light is nice but utility is important. Conclusion: Epoxy and varnish the whole beast and don't worry about the dings and or sun hurting the epoxy. If light is the goal utility will suffer. Brian