As someone who has only skied 2-6 days per year for the past 14 years, it is so much better owning my own skis and boots rather than doing seasonal rentals. I probably break even on cost compared to renting, but it's just so much easier to own and keeps you in the same consistent equipment, so you know what you're getting every time you're out. As everyone else has mentioned, if you're going to invest in buying something now but not all of it, do the boots. Go for a solid intermediate level boot, don't do a "beginner" boot. Expect price range to be $500-$600. Find a reputable store with good boot fitters who will let you come back and adjust the boots if they're not quite right. Rent the skis for now. Have her demo different models and practice. Maybe next season invest in an intermediate pair of skis that will allow her to progress. I don't know what the skiing is like in MN, but I'm guessing you may want different skis in Park City than in MN, so I would just take your boots with you and rent out there.