Good helmet brands:
Top Line: Shoei, Suomy, Arai, Bell, AGV,
Middle line: Icon, Shark, Scorpion, Joe Rocket, KBC, many others
Cheap: HJC, O’Neal and many others
http://www.helmetcity.com/page/HC/CTGY/helmetbrand
They are all “good” and they are all “safe” as most pass the same safety standards. Classic saying is if both Kia and a new Mercedes have the same crash safety rating… which one would you still rather crash in?
On the other side, most of the time a helmet will e doing other jobs other than crashing, it will be cutting the air and taking your head with it - design factor, it will be cutting wind noise down - R&D that goes into the helmet, comfort level for the thousands of miles you will be wearing this thing over time and last but certainly not least is colors/graphics. All of these factors affect the price. (also little things like visor removal systems, visor options, strap design, weight, cooling comfort etc)
I’ve had a number of helmets through the years and my favorite still has to be my Shoei. Out of my all my icons, none are terrible but each over time get annoying, random rattle in one, shield molding coming apart.
Think of it as buying a TV. A 20in cathodray tube Walmart brand TV will show you the same show as a 60in LED Sony, but we all know the effect won’t be the same. You would much rather spend the money if you have it and get a nicer bigger model.
Clothing wise I’ll stay away from Joe Rocket as their gloves I’ve owned fell apart even though they weren’t cheap and look into Tour Master/Cortech brands for very good all around jackets (great venting in warm, and great heat when it’s cold) and other typical stuff like Icon and Shift brands. I’d avoid Mesh as it does very little protection. Textile for daily duty and Leather for good protection and hot days (perforated leather).
Gloves, in my experience, all fall apart after a year or so, no matter what you spend or what brand.
Boots: Sidi
On the other hand, it sounds like you’re off to a good start as you seem to be the type who wants to ride instead of wanting to be seen riding.