Snowshoeing equipment can be rented, which generally consists of a pair of snowshoes and trekking poles. In the U.S., the major outdoor retailer REI offers reasonably priced rentals at many of their stores. In mountain towns local ski and gear shops often will rent gear, just be sure to check ahead for availability!
It is advisable to have some essential items of clothing to take on your snowshoeing trip such as thermal underwear, a waterproof jacket like a ski jacket, and hiking pants with gaiters or ski pants. A pair of boots that have been weather treated (I particularly like using Tectron Sno Seal) will be suitable for most conditions. Ski pants that are insulated are generally too warm, since snowshoeing is an energy intensive sport and you’ll warm up quickly, even in very cold temperatures.
The essentials for any snowshoeing wardrobe revolve around layers with good quality thermal underwear as an essential base layer, with a mid layer on top, followed by a waterproof jacket. A suitable jacket for snowshoeing is generally just a ski jacket shell, rather one that has built-in insulation. Good snowshoeing clothing can be expensive, but if it is good quality it will last for a number of seasons.
It is very important that suitable snowshoeing clothing is chosen and it is equally important that the clothing fits correctly since you’ll be moving around for hours! Perhaps you’ll be even more adventurous and go on a snowshoeing backpacking trip!?
Happy snowshoeing!