Hey, to each their own. I used a nice vest for years, but when several different chest-pack models started showing up on the scene I thought I'd try one out. After trial and error with several different brands I settled on the William Joseph version, which is now replaced by their magnetic series.
I've love my WJ, bought it on sale (Madison River Fishing Company-MRFC) and wouldn't trade it for anything.
As far as seeing your feet, I can't feel my feet let alone see them, but I wade with a staff and watch the water ahead of me and haven't found there to be a problem of not seeing my feet when using a chest pack.
My vest gave me a serious neck and back ache when I wore it because I kept everything in it. Now I know I have limited space and make sure I choose wisely what I carry in it for the water I'm fishing.
I also wade deep in my favorite spring creek so it's imperative that I have something that I can adjust to ride quite high so things stay dry. The WJ fits the bill on all counts.
Good luck.

Kelly