Another question for anyone on this thread!
Since I'm interested in lessons, I'm guessing I'll have to buy my own stuff (helmet, appropriate shoes, etc.)
Is there any particular store(s) you'd recommend or any you'd say to stay away from? We used to have a local tack shop in my town, but they closed down many years ago.
You want a good pair of boots for sure. Hardy, above ankle, I prefer lace-up because they last longer. Boots take you far.
Some barns have helmets to borrow but it's really much nicer to have your own. We have multi-sporting goods stores like Decathlon that sell a nice, reasonably priced helmet.
Get a good pair of gloves. Invest in gloves.
Depends on what you do and where and who's teaching, but I think a dressage/'long' stick is a really important piece of equipment for groundwork and higher level flatwork. Depends, though: My most frequent horses rn don't need/benefit from a stick in work so I'm not using it atm.
Find good trousers that fit well and don't roll up/chafe. Also socks.
For the horse: If you start the leasing process, the first piece of equipment I'd get is a nice standard or rope halter and lead/long rope. Fits many horses, minimal adjustments, versatile piece of equipment. I wouldn't bother with saddles and bridles until you're at the point of full leasing or buying a specific horse.
For me, in order of priority to own: Boots n socks, gloves, helmet, trousers, long stick/halter/lead rope, horse, everything else lol