Why would they give us shields, if we never use them when we're new in the game?

As I watch these so-called 'newbies' on youtube, playing Spiral Knights, it is all about slashing your way through a fine piece of jelly, no tactic, no shields, nothing.

So why give them shields in the first place? As far as I can see, the protoshield is and will always be there for the looks only.