[jerkstate]

I'm going to cheat because I actually bought this in late 2021, but: my own ski equipment and a weekday season pass. I used to go maybe two or three times a year with rented equipment, which was a whole production that required extra hours to go rent and return it, and I had to plan ahead. Now I can just decide last minute to head up to the mountain for the day, so last year I went about 15 times, on track for 15-20 times this year. It's great exercise and tons of fun.

[c2kc]

Nice! I made this move a few years ago as well, $ well spent. Now there's no stressing of getting to the mountain first chair and being able to enjoy just a few hours out there. Helps that my in-laws have a place in the ski town though... :)

[tibbon]

Same! I got mine around March 2022. I've only used it a few times, but it makes me far more likely to actually go skiing and not feel like I've just dropped too much money for a few hours of fun.

[jerkstate]

yeah, that's a great point. If you have your own gear and season pass, you can just come back down if the snow isn't good or if you just aren't feeling it. If you spent a bunch of money on rentals and day passes, you have to force it, otherwise it feels like you are wasting money.

[sul4bh]

Any suggestions for a good brand?

[jerkstate]

I bought the boots from a local ski shop, after trying on several brands I landed on the Dalbello Panterra, which I like a lot, but everyone has different feet. I've learned my lesson not to buy footwear online over and over again :)

If you wear eyeglasses, Revision Optical Snowhawk are the best integrated glasses + goggles I've used so far (but I'd be willing to believe that there are better ones out there - plus they are a PITA to order)