im very excited for this pad. i currently use the qcore SL so the would be a 5oz saving for me. i have not been willing to sacrifice the inch of thickness to move to an xtherm.
not enough food for me. for no cook, id add peanut butter crackers, bagel sandwhich, cured meats, cheese, poptart, nuts, quest bar. and for the 2nd day... ;)
also, do you have a stocking hat to go with that quilt? how about light gloves for early morning?
anything in 100wt polartec or powerstretch or the r1 style fabric(its escaping me currently) will likely serve you well. balance features (pockets, zip, etc) with an acceptable weight.
i have a daybreaker half zip from helly hansen that came in orange for gun season thats awesome. about 10oz...
i like periodic cleaning on my frame too. all the sweat all up in the foam...
i fill the tub with woolite and throw the pack in to soak. then drain. fill again with clean water and soak. then hang to dry.
been considering starting to use a large tote as it makes a mess...
i think two stoves is the best way to go, otherwise you will be wanting in the other scenario if youre anything like me. this last year, i was doing a ton of research and comparison on stoves, mostly canister, as thats where i was looking to upgrade. fuel usage, boil times, weight. i had it...
the side zip does work for a spotter, but going off what nick said, and for my personal preference, i usually lay my pack down exactly where the spotter would be if carried in the talon.
just feedback and my preference..