Sounds great.
Even with the "soft" tongues, I'd say the UPZs are pretty stiff. Super-responsive might be a better term, though! I felt that they had an even flex and a great wrap, so I didn't expect much shin bang. Laterally, I think they are very stiff. I thought the Palau liners complemented them quite well. Literally, in the shop it was the best fitting boot/liner/footbed (custom cork) combination I have ever experienced across either snowboard or ski boots. I was so thrilled about these that I even considered getting the different toe and heel pieces to use them as ski boots. I REALLY would have loved it if I could keep riding in these boots.
Regardless of the boots however, the forces on my feet and lower legs are just so dramatically different in snowboarding vs. skiing. I feel like I tried everything, but I just couldn't get the same amount of performance out of my hardboots as I could my ski boots without experiencing such discomfort. I wish it could have worked out because I love this sport, but I just couldn't get it out of my mind that I could be going faster, carving hard, and having fun all over the mountain on my skis without the pain I'm experiencing in this sport.
I'm glad it's working out for you all, though. I have a ton of respect for all the great riders on this forum. Just wish I could have hung with you in hardboots.
Sorry. Didn't mean to give you my life story, but there you have it.
Let me know about the liners or if you have any other thoughts about the boots.
Thanks,
Keith