Jim,

I agree that food is more critical for cold weather, but enough for the day + is part of the second catagory, stuff you are carrying for the day's use. Yes, I agree with you that in the cold there should be extra (3rd catagory) only for survival use, but it should place way behind staying found (nav), getting help (signaling) and proper shelter (both clothing and a extras).

In the winter I always carry plenty of extra food, as well as a light sleeping bag (usually an overbag to add to my parka and insulated pants - has worked well to -30F overnight). If you have the good shelter you can get by with less food. In a blizzard, the food will not make up for the lack of shelter (although in some areas shelter is easier to dream up). The Inuit caught in a blizzard takes off his mittens, places them on the ground and sits on them with his knees and arms inside the parka. Back to the wind, behind a mound of snow or in a depression they can sit for a day or two. I prefer to stretch out in my bag under a shelter I brought and eat my high calorie munchies :-).

The Wiggies bags may be a little heavier, but they are bulletproof. Very reliable kit.

Respectfully,

Jerry