>>1468008I'm a snowboarder so it's not entirely the same, but yeah... My first board/bindings/boots were under £400 and are still going strong (amongst other newer gear). Boots new, the rest used.
Cheap deals can be had on ski trips but you have to look out for them - though this is a britfags viewpoint, where we have to fly to our ski resorts. Don't eat out, or in mountain restaurants if you're super poor.
One thing I'd say, as hinted at above, is buy used everything EXCEPT boots.
DO NOT SKIMP ON BOOTS.
Even as a boarder, owning my own boots made me enjoy the experience so so so much more. Rental boots will NEVER* fit you right, and as a skiier, you need well fitted boots. You can be completely put off the sport by bad rental boots. I mean, sure, rent your gear for the first few goes, but the moment you know you want to stick with it and try do it regularly, buy properly fitted boots, even if you still rent skis/poles etc.
*usual disclaimer - ok maybe you'll be the one lucky person in a thousand who gets rental boots that fit them perfectly, but lets face it, you probably wont.
Oh, and wear a helmet. If you're a balding skinhead like me then make sure it fits well. If you have hair, well good for you, you lucky cunt with your long flowing helmet fit adjusting locks.
Don't fuss too much about gear (except boots). Get out there in whatever you can wear to not die of cold, and have fun.
