Yea boardfeel is one thing for sure but I think what trips me up more is just having a size 12 foot and feeling like my feet take up crazy real estate on the board. I'm sure I'll pull the trigger on some tiagos now that I got it stuck in my head, worth a shot.
With this knowledge, I'd suggest seeking out shoes with adequate midsoles on a more athletic upper to mitigate the "D3" bulk you may feel. Some of these "bulk" cupsoles don't feel that big on the board
NB 808 and 808Lite are athletic, mid-puff shoes that meet this happy medium. Stiff soles, so they need break in time, usually
NB 1010 are more trim in the upper, yet still have a sturdy sole, and more boardfeel up front (according to most who've tried both). I've only worn them, but never skated them (sadly)
NB 933 seems to take both worlds of 808 and 1010, but is more 808 (to me), since it has such a structured "big" heel design. They are comfy on foot!
Etnies Josl1n and Marana on the Michelin sole are far more trim, but still feel adequately protective. Two of my favorites
Emerica KSL G6, but it's discontinued. Also, the Mute seems like a sturdy option, too.
Es Accel "95" model is a happy medium between puff and slim, while being highly skateable, yet adequately protective