Does this have a hard shell on the bottom? I've seen some that do and it seems like a good idea. If not, does it seem like that would be better?
the fat tire snow tube is a 2 piece deal with a 'standard' black rubber truck(?) tire tube inside a very study nylon shell. the shell is not a hard one but as it is nylon it seems very sturdy. the construction of both make it very easy to store after the winter months in a very small space. a hard shell might present long term storage issues. i like the nylon shell. over i have been very happy with the fat tire tube. my 8 yr old son loves it and has used it a lot, i myself have take a few runs down the hill on it as well and found it very sturdy and stable. hope that helps.
For the heat to rise you need air. The waffle style Matt offers that. So yes, for it to work properly. I went to home depot and picked one up.