[Fael]

a fun part of the low levels is saving up money for each piece of leather, banded, etc. Its all a huge carrot. I'd say give them a piece of banded, some leather, and a fine steel weapon. That will get them over the brutal parity at low levels, and get them winning solo melee fights against whites and blues. Then let them save their money to upgrade. This ofcourse assumes you will be leveling with them and helping guide.