gloss coat strength?

How much strength does a gloss coat really add? I used to think I could tell the difference, but am beginning to think it’s all in my head. I recently got to look at two similar boards I made around the same time last year for a friend. One’s glossed, the other not, same rider, and they both look almost identical in terms of pressure dings and dents.

Seaweed- Hey, I always like to think of a gloss coat as a coat of paint on a wall. It dosn’t add any strength to the board, as paint dosn’t add any strength to a wall. Gloss coats seal up any pinholes, cover up sanded weave, and look pretty. They also add weight. If you are looking for performance, ditch the gloss, otherwise, it is always a nice touch.