I've got the old model with the non-thermoformable liner. Maneuverability equal to a leathr but more thought needs to go into it. I had the same criticisms above so I had to do some mods to make it work.
1) "It is difficult if not impossible to crank down the laces tight enough to secure your ankle/heel."- I glued a pair of ball bearings in each of the 4 upper hooks, that worked ... a little better. I then added a pair of velcro strap placed between them. That worked pretty well!
2) During subzero temps I use VBLs so I'm ok.
The biggest problem I had was the lack of gussets to connect the tongue to the upper. Approaches through shallow water or mud soaked the liners. It could also use a full rand.