I am not sure we disagree. I use a Trangia 27 often when I ski -- except I do keep the burner in my inside coat pocket. Alcohol works fine at that temperature, but better if you keep it warm and have a robust windscreen.

When I intend to cook I carry an alcohol stove, but when I carry a thermos and the stove is for emergency only it is ESBIT. It is better as a fire starter and can be lit from below.

If I need to melt snow or treat water I start a fire.

I also should mention that DriDucks seems to become brittle in cold weather. I tore up a set on a single 1 mile in and out snowshoe, and I thought I was on trail all the way.