Kinetix

I just started out about a week ago and I feel like I picked it up quickly. I took a 2-hr lesson on hard, icy snow and was linking turns with some confidence by the end of the day. Needless to say, I'm stoked!

Question: The end of the season is approaching and the sales/clearances are getting good, I'm quite excited and already know that I'd spend my time on the slopes and not in the park, should I keep renting for awhile, or shall I put together my own setup for cut-rate prices?

I've been told the Ride Havoc was a good intermediate board to jump to if progression is quick - although I found a $200 2008 Ride Decade which I was considering. Then I saw a recommendation for the Atomic Cold Smoke which is also $200. Thinking 159-161 cm range for all-mountain riding.

Follow that up with the potential (after trying them on) Ride Aspect or Haze boots with Ride Rx bindings ($90).

I'm thinking I can get everything together for <$400.

Any thoughts? I've been quite overwhelmed!

Stats: 5'8" 160 lbs size 9 foot