Yeah, they were obsessed with Cerberus armor. It was extremely disappointing, to be honest. This is supposed to be an RPG. In what world would Shepard run around in Cerberus armor as Cerberus wages war on the galaxy? Stupid. I do still use those Cerberus armors at times, but it always grates my nerves until I end up back in a suitable N7 combination. Those armors could've been awesome with Alliance and/or N7 colors.
Ajax armor looks good in N7 Spectre black:


It also comes in Alliance blue. I would never wear those armours without mods. Cerberus armour... seriously?
Although I asked for X-Men in space, I agree that catsuits and breathing masks are a bit ridiculous bur there has to be a happy medium where the characters can wear something form fitting but with obvious protection. Not just for my own visual pleasure but I want the next game to include a lot more freedom of movement (I'm a addicted to combat rolls and jumping) and it should be part of your spec that certain classes have the ability to zip across the battlefield in very light (but practical) armor. And obviously helmets in a vacuum.
Biotics use the bubble type barriers all the time in cut scenes. Jack used it a couple of times in Grissom Academy, Liara used it in LOTSB and I know I've seen more but can't think. And yes those barriers shrug off projectiles. I would like to see it used as a combat mechanic where you have to actively hold a barrier up against a barrage of bullets that would normally rip through your "passive" barrier.