If leather boots are used they will require slow drying and treatment with dubbin if they are to last more than a few trips in wet caves. Helmets require more care. Helmets are designed to absorb impact by deformation of the cradle and by delamination of the shell in the case of fibreglass helmets. Normal caving usage subjects helmets to wear far in excess of 'normal' use and they should be replaced even if undamaged on a regular basis. Not all caves are cold and wet, but strangely all are dark.
Lighting is essential.
The choice is between electric sets and carbide lamps. U.S. and Australian guidelines recommend three totally independent sources of light be carried by each individual. Carrying a small durable and water resistant torch as a backup light is highly recommended in every case. Electric miners lamps of various sorts are available in the U.K . These are mostly lead-acid and while reliable and rugged are capable of leaking acid.