Should I rent or buy skis?

Rent while you are still learning or skiing only a few days a season: your ideal ski changes quickly as you improve, and rentals are tuned for you every time. Demo (high-end rental) skis are a good way to try a model before buying it.

Buy once you ski often enough that rental fees add up, you know what terrain you like, and you're tired of guessing what you'll get at the rental counter. Last season's model is often the same ski with new graphics; on Skifolio, each ski page lists every season so you can check whether the shape changed.

Boots or skis first?

Boots. A boot that fits your foot affects every turn more than any ski, and rental boots are the part most people dislike. Buy boots from a fitter, keep renting or demoing skis, then buy skis once you know what you like.

When you are ready, take the quiz for skis that match your level and home mountain, and check your length. Bindings should always be mounted and set by a certified technician.