I was keen on slalom and downwinders 20 years ago but have not been on a board since I took up kiting. I would like to give windsurfing a go again but have no idea where to begin as gear has all changed and I have not even looked at it for so many years. I would like the opportunity to just try out some quality slalom equipment and see how I like it before buying a whole rig. Any ideas how I might do this as I imagine any hire places will have equipment suited to novices?

Yes, I guess location would help. I'm in Perth.

Have a chat with the crew at Windsurfing WA.
they should be able to help out with someone who can give some gear a demo.
Get down to the slalom racing at safety bay and chat with the crew down there.
Jesper Orth at Simmer Style WA in O'Connor may be able to demo you some gear as well.

www.windsurfingwa.org.au/

simmerstyle.com.au/pages/demo