Noted that the weight increase will be a factor, using the wood I have on hand as it is free and readily available. The other consideration is that the rivers here in southern Alberta tend to have a good deal of white water. As I plan to do extended tripping, I think the safety factor outweighs the weight consideration. Goon note on the skin, thank you, I will be ordering it soon from KUDZU. Recommendations on what weight would work best?