See it. Try it. Buy it.

That's the mantra one should use when purchasing ski equipment.

Most serious skiers consider buying new equipment an investment. Buy the right stuff, take care of it and keep it in good condition, and it will last for many years. Buy the wrong stuff, and you'll likely hate every turn you make.

There are a wide variety of skis for every condition and type of skier.

There are skis for skiing slalom, giant slalom and downhill. There are skis for bumps, powder and all-mountain conditions. There are skis for women that are softer and lighter. There are skis for cruising and skis made for the steeps. There are skis that work well on ice and hard snow and skis that are designed for the soft snow conditions found here in Colorado.

Because there is such a wide selection, it's a good idea to do a bit of research before you commit. You want the right equipment for the type of skier you are and the terrain you like to ski.

So it's best to try, or "demo," a ski or boot before you buy it. Because there are many different characteristics in ski equipment, it's a wise idea to see if what you're considering buying is right for you.

Ski areas often offer consumer demo days where, for a small fee (which usually includes a lift ticket), the general public can try a wide variety of new skis, boots, snowboards and accessories. The next consumer demo day is scheduled for Dec. 4-5 at Keystone.

See it

• Head to your favorite ski shop. Some of the best ski shops in the nation are located in the Denver metro area.

• Talk with the shop's techs. Doing so ahead of time will help narrow your choices and save you time once on the hill. Most techs are avid skiers and knowledgeable about the equipment they sell.

• Let the techs know how long you've been skiing, how many days you put in per season and the kind of terrain you ski most often. Learn what they recommend and why.

Try it

• Not all skis and boots are created equal. Equipment is available for every condition and type of terrain available. Buy the wrong stuff, and it's like throwing your money out the window.

• If you're looking for boots, use your own skis; if you're shopping for skis, use your own boots. Having one piece of equipment with which you are familiar will give you a point of reference and help give you a better feel for the new equipment you're trying.

• Once on the hill, ski the runs that have been groomed and will enable you to have consistency in your turns. Make a lot of turns to see how the skis react underfoot. Are they easy to turn? Are they forgiving? Do they hold the edge, or do they seem "nervous" underfoot?

Buy it

• The hottest new equipment sells fast. Wait too long, and you might have to settle for less than your first choice. He or she who hesitates gets the leftovers.

• Skis and boots should last you a number of years, so factor that in, especially if you're wary of spending the money.