I ended up getting the Giro Factor Techlace. So far, really like 'em. They seem stiff enough and it's easy to get a balanced fit with the boa top section, plus the lace/strap lower sections. I'd say they are the best shoes out-of-the-box I've had in recent years. I customized my Lakes extensively with a spot stretcher, but no customizations on these yet. I figured I'd break them in, then start customizing, but no hot spots, the heel gets locked in nicely, no issues to address.