I have a Clam Kenai (uninsulated) that I have had for years and this year I bought an Otter Hideout. The Hideout pulls easier than the Kenai. One reason is probably due to the smaller sled footprint. The downside of the smaller sled is you cannot put as much gear in it as the Kenai. The poles on the Hideout are wider than the sled so it is a little awkward to handle/load in the truck. I don't want to lift it by grabbing the poles so, I usually have to remove the cover partially so I can hold onto the post that the seat mounts on and then reach around below the poles to the lip of the sled with the other hand to load it. It is kind of awkward for one person to lift/load. The Kenai poles are the same width as the sled so I can easily grab the lip of the sled and load it. I also worry about the Hideout poles getting bent since they are wider than the sled. When Hideout is set up, the fishable space is noticeable and nice due to the wide poles. The seat in the Hideout could be better as already stated. It does have a backrest and swivels so its not bad but seems to teeter side to side. The sled is sturdy and I like the large cup holder and there is a molded spot for a small bait puck on both sides. The canvas is great, insulated, warm, does not have pin holes. Its so warm I have not had to run my heater in it yet. Overall I like the Hideout but not sure it is worth $500. I bought my Kenai at Cabelas at the end of the season for $165. I upgraded the seat and put LED lights in it. The only reason I wanted to upgrade is because the Kenai I have is not insulated so it is not warm and the thing I really did not like is how loud the canvas was on a windy day. I think a new Kenai pro thermal is $350. I love Otter products and have a 1200 Cabin and a new Otter Lodge XT Pro. I guess IMO the Hideout is a nice shelter but overpriced. The Kenai Pro Thermal is probably a better bang for your buck.
