For a learning experience, go right ahead. Expect a number of revisions and rework. So get a decent rework station and tools. If you want a product and turn some profit, start with thru-hole parts and avoid spending excessive time on this portion. Your time is money too. We often don't account for it though.
Even better, do a double footprint if you have space. Plan on the surface mount chip and have the header for breakout board right next to it. If one doesn't work, you have a back up. How's that sound? If you can find adafruit's design, just copy paste so the header will be there.