Bombard is another one that uses the material of choice. Historically that was the major difference between Avon and Zodiac. The reason is UV and abrasion resistance. Cost is also a factor but it's like front end alignments. With cars you can re-align now or re-align later AND buy new tires. With inflateables you can buy and maintain one good hypalon dinjy or plan on buying more than one made of PVC.

IMNSHO

Michael