> Kevlar works due it nature of being extremely difficult to tear.
> Unfortunately it is also easy to cut. This is why (in concert with
> its light weight) kevlar is ideal for bullet proof vests. I would
> propose that the fencer's blade had a "relatively" sharp
> edge/point where it happened to make contact with his opponent's kevlar
> protection, therefore going through the fabric with relative ease...
>

I don't make a habit of attacking kayaks with foils or epees. However, I'm leaning towards a kevlar skin-on-frame and I wonder about the issue of impacts/cuts, especially after reading threads about tortuous landings. ;-)

The high fuzzy-carpet factor of kevlar should handle rock and sand abrasion. What about "relatively sharp edge/point" damage? A rub strip would minimize risk of damage on the keel but the side fabric is on its own.

How is this damage minimized with other skin/frame combinations? An obvious solution is to use two layers, oriented at a right angle. Another is to use kevlar tape where damage potential is large. Is there such a thing as rip-stop kevlar (or is that bidirectional)? Alternate question: does it matter?

KTK