I run foam filled plastic plates in my PC. Ive never had any problems with comfort although I'm a pretty slim build. I prefer it and it makes a really loud whack when you get hit so you know even if you don't feel it.
I do kinda agree with you. I actually prefer it on the shorter version. I probably need to strip my gun back a bit and it'd look better but I have a thing for strapping as much stuff to my gun as possible.
Generally they come with flip up covers which you can put down when you flip it to the side. Generally I've found them to be pretty useless. They aren't solid enough to be accurate and are too dark to see targets properly
It's actually a mini reflex with an 11mm dovetail rather than a picatiny so I needed an adapter with then raised the sight. I actually quite like it at that height as it, as you say, helps when I'm wearing a mesh mask but also when I'm wearing electronic ear defenders. I've found with other sights I have to get a much lower cheek weld which means I knock the ear defenders and it gets really annoying. I think it puts the reticule around the same height or slightly higher than a T1 with a riser.