I have an old style vest and a micro-wire jacket liner. The difference is small. If you can pick up one of the jackets for half price at the outlet or online, go for it. You'll be just as warm and have $100 extra in your pocket.

 

My jacket liner is 12 years old and works just fine.....My wife's jacket liner is
3 years old and works just fine.
Comparing the two, the newer models seem 'less bulky'.....which translates
into better / thinner wires....and the plugs / controllers have been made
more user friendly.

 

Have the old style jacket and the microwire pants. Got the overpants and not the liner though and so glad I did. Easy to get on anytime and no big deal if on a ride and temps come up and ya can strip them off.