I think that most are missing the point. There isn't a mud motor around that is gonna twist a hull or flex it to the point of breaks as long as it is made of thick enough material. Now yes a .100 entire hull or even a .090 riveted BS hull, but a 3/16 bottom, with 1/8 crimped sides will not twist.

On the top pic of the bracing, its called rub rail and is bought like that. Its 4" wide and stands 2" tall, sure it gives a wide footprint, but leaves too much room in between the welds for hooks. The hat section is 1.5" tall and 2.5 " wide, but due to the flaps, the space in between the opening on the hat section is only 1.75". The hat section is 1/8" thick and the rub rail is 1/4" thick. depending on your terrain, maybe, but why. I built mine with weight in mind. The ribs of hat was 70 lbs lighter than going tubing. And like I said, I've hit all kind of shit with mine and my bottom looks like the day I built it.

That is GT extrusion. they had it developed. it is around 1/8 wall with bulbs at the toes. Thing is if you bend the tube it stays more the hats flex so they go back 2 shape more. Boats = you dont want 2 be too rigid IMHO. I like how the hat's work. if ya run stumps add more hats. your cross bracing spaceing is important. the stuff that excell uses is formed not extruded. Some will argue buts thats fine. I kinda like light fast and strong.