Binding Question

I know next to nothing about equipment - I've enjoyed my skiing plenty, but I've always hired my gear...

Recently I bought my first pair of boots, and became concious of the difference your own kit can make... I want to spend more now!

Someone has recently offered me a set of Look Z7 bindings... I know nothing about them, but he claims that they're decent, though not entirely recent kit... What say you all?

Most manufacturers have made big gains in binding technology in recent years so I would go for the most up-to-date you can afford...

I think I would second powderhound on this one. Your bindings are probably the most important part of your kit, if you want to keep your bones in one piece that is.
If you want to save money, save it somewhere else, the skis, the jacket, whatever. But don't skimp on the bindings - they ARE your legs man!

Following up on this... Pistehors reports <a href="http://www.pistehors.com/comments/200_0_1_0_C/" target="_blank">a French initiative covering binding settings</a>.

Interesting article for all those who simply shout "Intermediate" at the French chap handing over their skis for the week... and never even know what their bindings are set to...

...as an aside, I've always had good service with hire skis in France. Take your time, talk to the technician, make sure he/she knows exactly what level and style of skier you are and ask what DIN setting he's selected (and if you don't know what a DIN setting is, then find out: <a href="http://www.sunlightsports.com/Ask%20Bob/winter/bobalpbind.html" target="_blank">some bloke called Bob has a good introduction here</a>).