[Jhenka]

I'm an avid skier/snowboarder, started skiing at 6 snowboarding at 15.
Strictly a snowboarder now but here's my advice:

1) Go to a resort like Park City, Killington, Vail, Aspen etc. and rent their demo equipment, you'll get a feel of what type of ski's you like (shape and size)

2) Never buy equipment before or during the season, you're better off renting a season and picking up gear toward the end of the season (around march) at ski resort shops, or some online retailers. (places like the-house.com have awesome return policies and sales) You'll save hundred if not thousands of dollars by just waiting. Ski resorts usually have to get rid of their inventory toward the end of the season to make room for next years stuff. I picked up "Thirty Two" boots (snowboarding boots) for like $40 in Park City last March.

3) Comfort! Boots are the single most important thing you can buy. Most avid skiers that I know have them bake molded to their feet.

The reason why I mentioned the resorts above? They're image resorts with huge turnouts and get the highest variety of demo equipment.