I think you both have the right to fidget all you want.
Now, it certainly can cross the line into sharking territory. I don't see towel-jacking a cue or foot tapping as that, unless it can be found to have some strategic timing.
People are weirdos.
Most players don't win tournaments either.
I'm talking about players who can choose what type of position/ pocketing they need for whatever they're playing on.
Good players can and do.
I think for a good player, slower cloth would be largely a non-issue.
A good player will play shape angles that get the job done..
Shallow or steep angles TBD, based on distance needs, table speed and pocket size.