Just to put it into perspective, a top level set of Viking skates would set you back about € 1200,-, a top level suit € 200,-. Tailor made stuff could be a bit more expensive but costs will still stay limited.
What's expensive for top level skating are ice time and training camps. In my own racing days at regional level I'd buy myself a new pair of skates every 4 years (costing about half of the quoted sum) but I'd easily spend € 1000- € 2000,- for training costs (ice time), travel and lodging with regional events and the occasional national level event.
For skaters from 'small' speedskating countries there used to be the Inzell academy where they could train together.