I appreciate your pros and cons review.

I sometimes feel the same way about my Amerikilt…with the sewn-edge pleats that curl.
And the "don't you dare gain weight" fixed position snaps. If I had it to do over I might ask for a custom-made with the snaps omitted. Then I’d install my own straps or Velcro.

At other times I’m happy with the AK just the way it is.

I say hurray for different kilts for different uses/venues/moods!