Boards:

The board is usually the most expensive piece of equipment that you will have to purchase. Boards range in prices from $100 to $900 depending on what style, size and quality that you want. Sizing is a big issue when it comes to buying a board. Click here for more info on picking the right size board for you. You want to decide if you are going to be riding mainly freestyle or mainly freeride. The Heelside board company offers a series called the "Freedom", which give you are board that will do everything and you don't have to worry about the latest trends in technology. Also you need to consider your boot size. If you have a boot size of 11 or higher you are going to want to consider a wide board. Wide boards are going to be heavier and a little harder to turn but it will be worth it not to have you toe catching the snow all the time. You want to be close to having the ideal amount on one inch overhang on the toe edge. This will give you the best leverage with the least amount of resistance. 

Bindings:

Bindings are going to be your next product to consider. Some used boards come with bindings, but most new boards don't come with bindings. Bindings run anywhere between $50 for cheap bindings and $200-$350 for top end bindings. When purchasing bindings keep in mind what brand your board is and make sure that the bindings will fit on the board. For example, Burton boards will only work with Burton bindings or maybe a few high end bindings. You also want to consider if you want strap bindings or step-in bindings. Strap bindings are generally cheaper but require you to strap in and out before and after the lifts. Step-in bindings are simple and are very popular with most freestyle riders. The only step backs with step-in bindings is the price and that sometimes ice builds up between the boot and the binding plate. For these minor setbacks, step-ins are defiantly worth the extra money. If you buy step-ins I would make sure that they have a backplate or can have a backplate. You might not be used to riding with out that extra leverage.

Boots:

Boots will most likely be the least expensive piece of the main hardware. Boots range in price from $50-$250 for a pair of boots. You want a decent pair of boots that are comfortable and practical. Depending on what kind of riding you do, you can specify what type of boot you will want. Freeriders and Freestyle riders will have different preferences when it comes to flex. If you do both freestyle and freeride you may want to look into to a Freedom series boot which like the Freedom board with do anything without the hassle of worry about your equipment. Click here to go to the page on sizing your boots. Also you are going to want to consider what kind of bindings you have. If you have step-in bindings you are obviously going to need a pair of step-in compatible boots. But beware, certain kinds of boots only work with certain kinds of bindings. Check your bindings and what kind of boots you need before buying.