Shin pain when knuckeling is probably down to either the boot being too big or if it was the correct size there may be too much volume over the instep, either way it does not sound like a good fit but it's never going to be if your just wearing someone else's boots.
If your in the market for boots ignore what anyone else rides and go get fitted. Try the boots which te fitter selects and do not ask to try certain boots if he does not suggest them. If he does not suggest them they are not a good oprio so don't waste your time concentrate on the boots which are a possibility.
The he most important part of any fit is the footbeds. I always suggest full custom and I Very much urge you to go this route. Don't try to save money on footbeds if any thing get a cheaper boot.
