Cartels, Union Forces, other?
 

Hey guys, first post here but i have been riding casually for about 8 years and I am just now really getting into it. seems like a chill community here and I'm glad to be a part of it and pick your brains.
OK, so i've asked around a bit but i was looking for more opinions. I'm looking for a good freestyle binding for 50/50 all mountain freestyle and park riding (jibs and jumps). I've been pointed in the direction of
Cartels and Union Forces thusfar. Any pros/cons to these bindings? I'm trying to not spend a fortune so i was looking at last years cartels. Any other good freestyle bindings in the sub $200 range? (or somewhere close).
i ALSO need boots. so same question... any solid boots for the same style riding in the sub $150 range? thanks in advance guys!
I'm a size 9.5 boot and medium binding if that matters at all? :D

You can find last years Union force at the-house.com for $150. I ride them and they're the best binding I've ever ridden and I've gone through quite a few. They're a little more solid than the cartels (I found the cartels too soft) so you're definitely going to get more out of them. The straps are designed really well on the force and are really comfortable if you plan on staying in them for the better part of the day.

thanks for the info bro. anyone have any boot recommendations? or anything further to add regarding bindings?

Whatever fits your feet the best.

i was under the impression that some boots have dif levels of stiffness and maybe certain brands are better quality for the price. no? also i've heard that some boots wear out and pack in much quicker? i' pretty sure i can get ANY boot in my size to fit...

Have you checked out Rome 390's? I have last years and love them.

Sooner or later someone here is going to recommend the rome 390s. I got a pair and their really nice. I don't feel any pressure points at all because the 390s are super adjustable. Like said ^, its the one that fits you best. For me I have burton rulers and they're super super comfy. I really like the speed lace on them too. In/ out of your boots in under 15 seconds.

*opps someone has already recommended them.

I got the Union Force-DLX last year and absolutely love them. The ankle ratchet got stuck a couple times, but other than that they've been rock solid. On the other hand, my old Cartels were sent into warranty repair and also constantly having parts replaced. Get the Unions for sure!

I only know one person who can shred who has not broke his burtons. The Union Force is the probebly the best binding out there. I wouldn't recomend any other binding. Even if you have to wait till the end of the season for a sale.

is it better to get union bindings at the end of the season or wait till ski dazzle?