I, too, bring equipment for the sentimental value, for example, my 17-year-old paddle that was really roughed up, but I couldn't get myself to replace it until this last weekend. Every time I went on a trip with that paddle, I would bring all the memories from the time I was 14 years old with me. I always said I would use the paddle until it broke, but I knew that if it ever did, I would be really, really sad. I finally decided to start making new memories with a new paddle and put the old one in a place of honor. Now, whenever I look at it, the memories will still come back. 

Your canvas canoe probably holds the same kind of memories that my paddle does. This is a tough one. I love Kevlar canoes, but I understand the difficulty in parting with the old canvas. My wife wanted to get me a new paddle for years, but I kept refusing. Is it time? Only you know the answer to that.

Edited by user Saturday, May 3, 2014 9:27:23 PM(UTC)  | Reason: Not specified

For me it depends.  My canoe of choice is a 1972 Old Town wood/plastic (fiberglass) that I had restored to great condition last winter.  It is beautiful but weight wise a real brute.  Especially compared to my kevlar Winona adirondak.  Thus if I'm going on a short trip or one with limited portages I go in a classic beauty.  If I'm in it for the long haul with many portages and or lengthy portages I will take the kevlar.  At the end of the day comfort trumps memories in my book.  The last memory I want is not having a satisfactory trip because my equipment was too uncomfortable...this goes for mattresses too.