I had a Center zip before they upped the insulation thickness. I liked the position of the zipper but did have the same issues with the Velcro poking and scratching at me. The hood shape was great. I’ve run EE down quilts too and the big box store sleeping bags. I’m back with a 20 degree wiggy for most of my stuff. Compresses to be just a little bigger and heavier than a comparable slick but to me warmer, way more durable and not ludicrously expensive. If I burn a hole in it, marmot thrashes it while I’m away or the insulation gives up I know I got my money’s worth.