I almost always have the lightest pack, but also am the person carrying the emergency gear. I have hiked with phat and I think he had a lighter pack, probably Oregon Mouse also.

I carry a first aid kit but have only used it on other people in the last five years.

My weakness is taking too much trail snacks. If I carry out a half dozen bars at 2 oz. a piece then it is something I will live with. I have never mooched food.

At the Tonto level in the Grand Canyon the first week of May the overnight low was 41.7F. I was carrying a Jacks'R'Better Stealth and had to put on my micro-puff pullover and burrito the TYVEK - then I was toasty. I often offer to share body heat with every attractive woman on the trip - but that does not have anything to do with gear.