Canoes can be made of various materials, including wood, bark, canvas, aluminum, molded plastic, fiberglass, synthetic fiber composites, and reinforced fabrics like PVC, polyester, and nylon. The intended use of the canoe dictates its hull shape, length, and construction material. Here are some of the most common materials used to make canoes:

• Wood: Early canoes were made of wood and bark, and cedar strip or canvas-covered wood frame canoes are still available today. Wooden canoes tend to be quite heavy and require regular maintenance.

• Aluminum: Aluminum canoes are made out of aluminum and are lighter and cheaper to manufacture than the competition. They are highly impact-resistant and can last forever even when left outdoors and neglected.

• Molded plastic: Most plastic canoes are made from polyethylene, an inexpensive form of plastic that can be thermo-molded to reach a desired shape. However, this process limits the variety of shapes available, and as a result, polyethylene canoes often have wide entry lines with poor speed and efficiency. Without reinforcement, polyethylene lacks stiffness, which also negatively impacts speed. .

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the most common material used in manufacturing canoes. Fiberglass canoes are generally constructed by layering a fiber material inside a "female" mold. They are stiff, lightweight, and strong.

• Reinforced fabrics: Travel canoes are made of durable and flexible reinforced fabrics like PVC, polyester, and nylon. Some require setting up an internal structure, giving form to the fabric, while others are completely inflatable. They are durable, perform well, and are relatively inexpensive.

• Synthetic fiber composites: Canoes constructed of materials such as Kevlar offer excellent durability with minimal weight, making them well-suited for canoe camping that requires numerous portages. They are strong and lightweight.

The choice of material depends on various factors such as performance, durability, weight, aesthetics, and price. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and the intended use of the canoe should be considered when choosing the material.