I like the 8 polyester but it isn't for everybody. As mentioned holes will develop if you pull the thread too tight so you do have to be careful on pulling on each stitch , still it does heat shrink nicely and doesn't wrinkle like 8 oz nylon does. Probably not the best choice of fabric until you have skinned a few boats with heavier fabric.

Overall 12 oz nylon twill weave is hard to beat though it is a bit pricey last time I checked it was $5.00 US a foot compared to $2.00 ft for 8 oz polyester.