Oh I know what you mean about the visibility issues. My first Cobra had a soft top and side curtains. It was claustrophobic and still leaked plenty water in a hard rain.
So, I am familiar with the draw backs. In fact, Peter at ERA tried to talk me out of it as well! But I do plan on some extensive drives and think it is prudent in my case to have that option in the trunk. I also use my tanneau cover, which in many cases is enough (along with the towel).
I had considered a hardtop, a friend of mine in Hawaii had one. He hated the idea that once it was on and you were out for a cruise you were "stuck with it" on. He prefered the soft top for that reason, more flexibility on the road.
It takes up a lot of room in the trunk as well, so, it's far from perfect on many levels.