In reply to rob1:
The Maestrale (from 2012) were a considerable change from the earlier Denalis in that they immediately felt lighter but softer on the foot. Still good control when tightening them right up but the Denali felt a lot stiffer, good for tired sagging on the shins.
If you are bashing about on foot a lot, the Maestrale is super comfortable but so light I can feel the sole flex when rock hopping on the balls of my feet.
As an aside, the biggest difference you can make in comfort, regardless of boot, is to wear pants that allow easy access and adjustment to the boots when skinning/skiing, rather than putting up with something because it's such a faff to adjust IMHO. Seventies flares are the biz.