What gear should I use?

When Starting out get stinging nettle pants and shirt ASAP

You can wear two of both. That will increase your survival.

shoes can be made from wood block (with carpentry)

Dried aniimal skins allow you to create other clothing and capes.

Gear,weapons,and armor is all vital to your success, here are some that should help

Outfit for new newbies.

Cloth:

Spruce Cap

Linen Shirts

Linen Pants(Don't loose this, its vital for survival)

Clogs

Weapons:

Stone axe.

Torch.

Outfit for more experienced newbies.

Boar tusk helmet

linen shirt

leather armor

linen pants

leather pants

leather boots

Weapons.

Sling

Axe

Shield