- New-ness. I have 7 pairs of skis currently. 2 were bought new at severe discounts (<$200/pair.)
- Exactness. My 7 pairs are a sort of "fits the requirements", not some unicorn ski. Not that I don't believe in them. But I'd rather own a set of skis that cover a wider range of conditions, than few skis that are really perfect in one condition for me. 4 inbounds (3 good, 1 rock), 3 touring (2 good, 1 rock) covers this pretty well. Example: A moment belafonte isn't the ideal touring ski, but for $30 it's a great touring rock ski. Atomic Alibi isn't my perfect daily driver, but for $180 new, it still has the metal backbone I like in a ski and relatively versatile.
- Matching clothing. All my outerwear was bought used in good condition. One pair of grey pants (which already have 15 day son them this season) for inbounds and touring makes it easy to match various used jackets (one hardshell, one softshell.)
- Graphics. Stickers are cheap.
- Poles. Whatever. As long as they are withing a couple cm of the right length.
- Bindings. I have preferences, but as long as they are DIN12 or higher and test okay, I'll ski pretty much whatever. If I'm buying I prefer used STH14/16s for their adjustability and durability. But PX15s can always be found cheap and also last a darn long time.