Be discriminating and selective. Evaluate the accuracy of information and survey better sources when it's time for an important decision. I don't have any particular brand that I would push. I will say, don't spend tons of money. I know of people that wear gloves from the hardware store and hockey kneepads and are perfectly happy.
Full protection is important.
The most important, of course, is a good helmet and goggles. Get a white, Snell approved helmet. Solid white helmets are the best choice because they are cheaper than a helmet with graphics and white is the coolest for temperature. Bieffi helmets are the cheapest Snell helmets. They do not fit everyone's head, though.