i think the pocket is awesome. instead of leaving the cover stuffed into a corner or under a bag of charcoal, just wad it up and stuff it in its own pocket.
I'm sure that practice alone will make the cover more durable. My covers always get destroyed by hot chimneys, sharp things like nails sticking out from railings, or hot coals falling from chimneys.
The material should be more durable. Thinner, because its not coated in vinyl (which will dry rot, and become brittle in extreme temperatures)
It's breathable, while resisting water.
If I were rich, and not lazy, I'd probably put the new covers on all of my grills.