There are now low-cost schooling breeches, jodhpurs, tights, etc. available for individuals on a budget. Many tack stores also feature consignment sections where gently worn garments can be purchased for a small sum, a boon for parents with rapidly growning children. Currently there is no state or national law requiring the use of riding helmets. It is best to avoid purchasing a used helmet, since the new helmets are designed to absorb the brunt of one serious impact, and then be replaced. Some helmet companies will replace helmets free of charge after a serious fall.
Most barns require a hard soled shoe with a definable heel.
There are riding sneakers available wchich have a heel, but some barns prohibit such foot gear, since sneakers do not offer much protection for the foot if a horse steps on it. Tack store consignment shops are always full of outgrown footwear for children. Jeans are standard attire. Western boots tend to have a bigger heel than English boots. It is not common practice to wear a safety helmet when riding Western.