Most of my halyards have a self tied bowline onto the snap shackle. I've never had a problem doing this. It's simple, doesn't rely on another person's splicing skill (which I admittedly lack), and the knot keeps the halyard from being pulled into the block. I can change it in a moment if anything chafes (not that it happens a lot). What's not to like?

If it doesn't look pretty, well neither do a few other things on my boat. I try to keep everything working and appearances aren't as important as functionality.

I admire yachts kept in Bristol fashion - greatly - but also admire yachts kept in seagoing fashion. They aren't always the same.