West Coast Foil Club guys used to tell people who asked about demo foils. Instead of demo'ing a foil just go punch yourself in the face for an hour. It's about the same thing. You either have to want to foil and you'll learn. Or you don't want to and you'll try it twice then never do it again.
Look for a school who will teach you behind a ski or a boat. I bet that'd be the best way to "rent gear". Going out in waves for the first time is rough.
