I have been a raft guide for 10+ years. Ive used every kind of raft such as Maravias, Avons, Sotars,Nrs,Aires. I believe that Hyside makes one of the best rafts on the market. There are only two boats Id buy, one being a Hyside and the other being a Sotar. Sotar boats are great at grabbing the water out in front of it, but the pvc construction doesnt hold up as well as Hypalon. The hyside boat tracks water very well and doesn't drift off its line. If you used Downriver boats, you'll notice the boat drifting off its line more frequently. The I beam construction in the Hyside is also very nice, you'll notice the difference if you use an NRS otter series boat on how much the Ibeams can flex during use. Overall, If you buy a hyside you will be happy with the durability, given that our company still has 20 year old hysides being used, as well as the resale value if you decide to sell your raft.