In the past, I have used my MFLB on the slopes with great success. That said, it lacks in some respects that I am sure we could debate ad infinitum
. While cold weather is hard on batts, I think the use of the box is harder on them. Those batteries, simply put, get abused and require periodic replacement to perform at an optimal levels. In a regular electronic device they would perform for hours or days. In the box, 2 minutes or so. Anywho, the No2 is a bigger unit and I can see the problem there. If you have a backpack, no biggie. A Solo is small and would easily fit in one jacket pocket. Throw a stem (glass or wood) in a toothbrush case or something similar) in a different pocket. When the time comes, assemble and go! The MFLB battery caps are awesome for preloaded and half cooked stems.