I've used my cedar strip canoe since 1991 and it's a beat up old boat by now. Pinned against rocks in rapids, and twice it withstood such disrespect. Punched a hole in the side. Just a fantastic fly fishing vessel, and you are so right about the gliding. It's like comparing a ballerina with a linebacker when you talk about other types of canoes. Won't go there with kayaks, which are a totally different animal. JGW