>>1641178Gear buying advice?
Set up a budget and start saving during spring, summer, and fall. That's what I did. Still spent 20% above my budget - the shoes broke the bank, but I am honestly happy they did. Don't skimp on foot comfort.
I'd say splash on boots, not the skis. You'll do one descent a day with your skis, often in crusty, lumpy, icy snow. Unless you're already a skilled off-piste skier, those carbon fiber super carving twintip skis are a waste. You'd rather have feet which don't hurt like hell when you summit.
For bindings, the lowest end dynafit or similar work fine for a beginner/intermediate. Bindings are probably the easiest to find used, too.
I tried to buy used gear, but realized that it's a piecemeal affair - you got to constantly look out for used skis, poles, shoes with the right size, then buy them when they show up. I'm taller than average so I couldn't just hop on Craigslist at the start of the season and buy a full kit.
tl;dr either plan ahead and build up your kit progressively during off season, or spend a shitload for new gear. Don't skimp on boots.
