Jamie
I have a preference for Burton kit, mainly because I have had a few boards and they have always been good quality and performed really well. They have a really good range of boards and their marketing literature is fairly accurate in helping to decide what board to go for.
It kinda depends on what you will be riding - piste/park/powder. If you want to be jumping or just like a bit of speed.
The Burton Custom has always been a good board and suits most styles and they do it in a range of lengths etc. I am not certain if they are keeping it in their line up this year.
Always a good option is to buy last years model, will save you a fortune and if you go to the right shops you should be able to geta good deal on a board/binding/bag/boots package.
Personally I like Salomon boots as i find the fit is very great for me. best is to try on lots of pairs and walk around in them and see which ones you can stand on your toes for ages without lift/pain etc.
have a look here for more advice and links to good shops...
http://www.goneboarding.co.uk/
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