A soft, light binding that's easy to handle and comfortable at low to moderate speeds. It isn't for hard carving or high-speed support, but it's forgiving in exchange, which suits beginners, lighter or less powerful riders, and playful freestyle that doesn't go to extremes. The low price factors in too.

One of the standouts the reviewer found in this price bracket — their summary is that to do better you'd have to spend a lot more. The highback twists easily and has a bit of snapback when you lean into it. Surprisingly, the response came out a step above the STR. Impact absorption and boot support are lacking, though — it doesn't have as much EVA foam as the rest of Union's line.