[bee_rider]

When people in the US think of rental skis, we think of weekend rentals that are usually not very specialized and pretty beat up.

What you describe here sounds more like leasing a car vs renting one—technically a lease is a rental, but practically it is a bit closer to owning the thing.

[einarfd]

Are you sure that there aren't multiple tiers of rental skies in resorts in the USA? I have friends in the rental business in Norway, and they rent out skies from the kind of beginner friendly skies that would fit your description. To top of the line Stockli and Van Deer kit. I think they keep all of their gear in at least decent shape, with the top gear kept in the best shape, as it makes the most difference for those customers. Btw. haven't rented much in the Alps. But my impression is that you can rent gear for all ability levels there aswell, and that that gear is kept in good shape.

[bee_rider]

I’m not sure there aren’t, in fact I bet there are! I’m just talking about the typical case that I think most people think of.

[ghaff]

When I was downhill skiing, there were typically regular rentals and performance rentals. I'd usually bring my own boots but, if traveling by air, usually rent the skis.

[rr808]

Here in NY region seasonal rentals are pretty common too. Esp for kids who will upsize every year or two.