I'd been eyeing this vest for a while, and when the "Biscuit" color was released I pounced. It's a much more comfortable alternative to my longer length zip vest with a collar. I've worn it daily for a week, including 2 days of skiing in 5-15 F temps. I love the way it layers with my other clothes and how it looks without my jacket. While I understand the feedback on the plastic snaps, I think metal snaps would be too heavy and could cause unwanted wear to the fabric and/or be more likely to pull out when unsnapping. We own a clothing manufacturing company and after close inspection I can say that the construction of this garment is excellent. While pockets would be great, they would change the way the vest wears. I don't love the puckering on the back from the dart up the middle, but it's not a deal breaker. I purchased a S/M and am 5'7" and 150 lbs. I've purchased the blue one for my mom for her 80th birthday and I think she'll love it.