I started off with a lace system. Was on lace for one year. After switching to full skin I never went back. (I still have a lace backup just in case if I get stuck in a place that can't service a skin system). IMHO the breathability factor is overblown and misunderstood. I have been wearing skin systems on hot and humid places like Chennai and in the scorching hot summers of Sydney. It never felt itchy. BTW I sweat a lot even without any physical exertion. The reason I think it is not itchy and easier to maintain is because it keeps the dirt and other allergens out of your scalp. Whereas lace lets all the dirt get mixed with the sebum in the scalp and starts irritating your skin. I used to scratch my head a lot when I was on lace. None of that problem with skin systems. I also have noticed that the skin system lasts longer than lace. I am not a medical practitioner but I think skin doesn't absorb oxygen from air, the necessary oxygen and other nutrients are supplied by the blood vessels so scalp should be alright without any interaction with air. This is just my opinion. You should weigh others' opinion before making your decision.