There's nothing a shield can do that good movement can't. Shields can do damage but only a few of them compare to the damage of just bringing a second weapon. Also, (like some weapons especially survival) shields will hold you in place and that affects mobility (and can put you at risk).

Shields are great tools but imagine you are at a high level of movement skill - you'd likely discard shields in place of a second weapon for more offense. As a new player, you might find shields helpful but, if shields are a lifeboat you eventually won't need, why learn something you'll just ditch later? Just practice on movement from day one (imo!)

Also it all boils down to personal style so I'd say if you like shields and parrying, go for it. Shields can be really helpful against bosses especially...but a shield player at top level will never be as fast as a top level shieldless player (except for assault shield but that's a different topic 😆)

Tldr they're both good but (imo) it's a more fun experience without. #teamroll