if you go with all the well known brands(fox,o'neal,shift ect...) you should be ok...
as for helmets i think m2r make some good priced helmets i think they start at around $140 but if your goin to use it alot and do alot of riding you may aswell get good gear if your not going to ride much or anything you might whant to check out some cheaper brands.
my 2cents