I've owned a bunch of both models. Utilikilt Original is the polycotton and much lighter weight than the Survival II. The UK Survival II has a bit of a soft twill feel to it, its heavier fabric than the Original but not as stiff as the duck of the Workman's

To answer your question YES the Survival II is worth the extra money in many ways.

The modesty toggles work well - I've tested them under helicopter rotar wash - the snap off pockets are great both for air travel and for "converting" the Survival II to a Mocker look for dressier/preppier wear.

In the field the Survival II is like having a military uniform intended for the field. A fine hiking kilt. I wore my basil Survival II to hike down to Havasu Falls. I wore my black Survival II to hike down Cathedral Wash into Marble Canyon. A lot of that hike was sliding down slick rock.

The value is there for the Survival II if you're gonna wear in in the field like fatigues. The Original will work in the field but its more likely to get worn/torn. Original is great for office dress. Have worn the Original on raft trips but they mostly involved sitting.

Survival II if you can afford it. The value and utility is there. You'll thank me.

Ron