My load out right now for this character : Studded Leather Coat, Steppe Cap, Light Lance, Cavalry Shield, Javelins x 2, Desert Horse. It's a pretty balanced build, and I can fight on foot pretty well if I get dehorsed. If I'm on an infantry map, I'll switch to Lamellar vest, metal helmet, battlefork, shield, and javs. I've made a lot of money with this gear, so it seems to be pretty manageable, cost wise.