Clam C-560 Thermal Hub Shelter Review & Price (2025)
In this post, I’ll give you a real user review of the Clam C-560 Thermal Hub Shelter, including its current U.S. price and whether this affordable yet insulated shelter is worth buying in 2025 for your next ice fishing trip with friends or family.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Clam C-560 Thermal Hub |
|---|---|
| Price | $459.99 (Official Retail, USA) |
| Fishable Area | 56 ft² |
| Capacity | 3–4 Persons |
| Shelter Type | 4-Sided Hub-Style |
| Setup Time | ~60 Seconds |
| Fabric | Full Thermal Skin (Heat-retaining, Low Condens.) |
| Weight | Light & Portable |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited Warranty |
What Makes the C-560 Thermal Hub Stand Out?
Compact Size, Big Fishing Area
Don’t let the size fool you—once it’s popped up, the C-560 offers 56 square feet of usable fishable space. That’s enough for 3 to 4 anglers comfortably, with space for heaters, tackle boxes, and sonar units.
Fast Setup in 60 Seconds
Thanks to the smart hub-style pop-up system, you can have this shelter ready in under one minute, even if you’re setting it up solo. It’s perfect for last-minute weather changes or quick setups before sunrise.
Full Thermal Insulation
The insulated thermal skin helps retain warmth and reduces internal condensation—so you stay dry and warm all day. Whether it’s snowing or windy outside, you’ll feel cozy inside with just a small heater.
Packs Down Small & Travels Light
This is one of the lightest and easiest-to-carry 4-person insulated shelters in Clam’s lineup. It fits into a compact carry bag that fits in most car trunks or sleds, making transport to remote fishing locations easy.
Built for Real-World Ice Anglers
The C-560 Thermal Hub was made for people who want simple, fast protection without sacrificing comfort. It’s great for:
- First-time ice anglers who want thermal performance
- Weekend group outings
- Kids and families on the ice
- Backup shelter when traveling light
My Experience: 2 Days on Upper Red Lake, MN
- Setup Speed: 60 seconds (solo test ✅)
- Fishable Space: Enough for 3 chairs, 3 holes, and gear with elbow room
- Temperature Test: Held steady at 45–50°F inside (using Buddy Heater)
- Wind Resistance: Performed well in 15+ mph wind with proper anchoring
- Portability: Lightweight, very easy to pack and carry
- Comfort: Bright inside thanks to gray reflective walls
🆚 Compared with Higher-End Ice Shelters (2025)
| Feature | Clam C-560 Thermal | Clam X-400 Thermal XT | Clam X-500 Lookout | Eskimo Outbreak 350XD | Eskimo Outbreak 650XD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fishable Area | 56 ft² | 68 ft² | 62 ft² | 63 ft² | 94 ft² |
| Capacity | 3–4 People | 4 People | 4–5 People | 3–4 People | 5–7 People |
| Setup Style | Hub Pop-Up | Flip-Over | Hub (Max View Windows) | Wide-Bottom Hub | Wide-Bottom Hub |
| Insulation | Full Thermal | Full Thermal | Full Thermal | StormShield™ Thermal | StormShield™ Thermal |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy (~64 lb) | Midweight | 44 lb | 64 lb |
| Included Accessories | None | Seats, Light Sticks | Max Entry Door | Ice Anchors, Bag | Ice Anchors, Bag |
| Setup Time | ~1 Minute | ~2 Minutes (Flip-Over) | ~1 Minute | ~1 Minute | ~1–2 Minutes |
| Warranty | 1-Year | 3-Year | 3-Year | 1-Year | 1-Year |
| Price (USD) | $459.99 | $1,999.99 | $579.99 | $469.99 | $649.99 |
📝 Want to explore these premium shelters? Check out our full reviews of the Clam X400 Thermal XT, Eskimo Outbreak 650XD, and X-500 Lookout Thermal for full specs and real-world performance.e.
Pros & Cons
Pros
✔️ Fast 1-minute solo setup
✔️ Full thermal insulation for warmth
✔️ Lightweight & compact when packed
✔️ Perfect for 3–4 person group
✔️ Budget-friendly at under $500
✔️ Trusted Clam durability
Cons
➖ Doesn’t include lights or seating
➖ Limited headroom for very tall anglers
➖ Single door entry (vs dual doors on larger models)
Final Verdict: Is the Clam C-560 Thermal Worth Buying in 2025?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, portable, insulated ice fishing shelter for 3–4 people that doesn’t skimp on warmth or space—the Clam C-560 Thermal Hub is a top pick in 2025.
Whether you’re fishing with friends, family, or teaching kids how to jig—this shelter gives you comfort, warmth, and ease of use at a great price. And for under $500, it’s one of the most balanced shelters in its class.