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Maybe they are not better....maybe they just look better....maybe it’s they’re cheaper to build compared to a riveted boat....why are aircraft riveted and not welded...are riveted boats less costly to repair....welded small boats are usually lighter ...what about reinforcing braces and brackets...what about using heavier gage aluminum ..riveted boats allow the boat to flex and not break...welded boats are stiffer and not as flexible ..does a small performance tinny even need to worry able flexibility?

There are many opinions on the websites especially from the boat manufacturers . I remember when the first small welded tinny China built boats appeared on the market. The sales promotion was they were lighter, stronger, better build and less expensive compared to the current ageless riveted North America built hulls that had been the same basic designs for years.

If you check the marketplace today those China boats have increased significantly in price and there appears to be a surplus of new old stock models.

Here is a video about difference welded and riveted .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZE_axfUN3c

Buying a new small tinny with a small 4 stroke outboard is now a very expensive purchase. That reason could be the reason for the reduction in sales.

I’ve had both. I prefer welded boats. Had a 16’ Crestliner utility that was welded rated for 40hp and had a 50 Etec on the back. Reason for welded preference, don’t have to worry about leaking if the boat is used and not abused. The boat was stiff and I ran it hard at times in really rough water, cracked the front cross rib on the ends but never broke a weld. After that just drove it normally, never had any issues. New boats are no where near the standard of quality of boats of yesteryear. Things like lapstraking the sides, double riveting seams, seats to the floor to stiffen the bottom and sides, etc. I currently have a Lund s14 and the build is night and day difference to the current boats. Those Springboks of the 70’s were tough as nails. Tinboats.net have a lot of talk on tinny utilities.