Gifting to New Chess Players
Someone just discovered chess and you want to support their journey. Here's the thing: beginners don't need fancy equipment. They need:
- A decent set to practice on
- Good learning resources (book or app)
- Encouragement (most important!)
Avoid overwhelming them with advanced books, tournament equipment, or expensive sets they'll be afraid to use.
The Perfect First Set
Wegiel European Chess Set — $45
This is THE beginner set recommendation. Why?
- 17-inch board (not too big, not too small)
- Weighted pieces that feel substantial
- Folding board stores pieces inside
- Durable enough for learning
What makes a good learning set:
- Large enough to see clearly
- Pieces that don't tip over easily
- Nothing so precious they're scared to use it
Best Learning Books
Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess — $12
The gold standard for self-learning. Fischer designed this book to be worked through alone - no teacher needed. It builds pattern recognition through hundreds of puzzles.
Why it works:
- Programmed learning (immediate feedback)
- Starts simple, builds progressively
- Can be finished in a few weeks
Play Winning Chess by Seirawan — $18
For adults who want deeper explanations. Seirawan explains the "why" behind chess principles in plain English.
Online Learning
Chess.com Premium — $29/year
Structured lessons, unlimited puzzles, game analysis. The lessons track progress and adapt to skill level. Perfect for self-motivated learners.
Lichess Patron — $25
Lichess is 100% free, but patron status supports the nonprofit and removes rare ads. All features are already free - this is about supporting open-source chess.
Special Mention: No Stress Chess — $20
For absolute beginners or young kids, this game uses cards to guide piece movement. Removes the "which piece moves how?" barrier until they memorize it naturally.
What NOT to Get Beginners
- ❌ Tournament clocks (adds unnecessary pressure)
- ❌ Advanced opening books (overwhelming)
- ❌ Expensive sets (intimidating)
- ❌ Analysis engines (confusing without foundation)
The Real Gift
Honestly? The best gift is your time. Offer to play games with them, go through the book together, or just ask about their progress. Equipment matters less than feeling supported in a new hobby.
