If you are just starting to play the violin, you might be overwhelmed by the many options for shoulder rests. Since every person’s body type is different, finding the perfect shoulder rest might involve some trial and error. What works for one person may not work for someone else, but I’ve found that there are some shoulder rests that work with most body types. Here are the best shoulder rests I recommend for beginner violinists.

(Make sure you purchase the size of shoulder rest that matches your violin).

1. Everest Shoulder Rest

This is the shoulder rest that I use and it seems to suit most students as well. The curve of the cushion hugs your shoulder very nicely making for a comfortable fit. My only complaint is that the feet do not screw out very much so if you have a long neck, this shoulder rest may not give you the support you need. Since the feet are firmly attached to the shoulder rest, it doesn’t allow you to tilt the rest. It’s not a big deal, but the rigidity makes it a little less customizable. Other than those few setbacks, I love this shoulder rest.

You can also buy a collapsible version so the feet fold down to better fit in your violin case. As far as shoulder rests go, it’s pretty cheap so it’s worth a try.

Pros:

-Inexpensive

-Doesn’t fall off your violin

-Comfortable cushion

-Comes in lots of fun colors

-Better for medium to small necks

Cons:

-Feet don’t screw out very far.

-Not good for long necks

Click here for pricing on Amazon

2. Kun Shoulder Rest

For a long time, Kun has been the standard for shoulder rests. They offer lots of options, from their original plastic design to the prettier hardwood version. Kuns have more “moving parts” than most shoulder rests making it very customizable. I find the curve of the shoulder rest is a little more shallow than the Everest, making it slip off my shoulder occasionally. Some people have problems with the feet occasionally slipping off the violin. Replacement feet can be purchased separately if your feet eventually loose their grip.

Pros:

-Adjustable and customizable

-Comfortable cushion

-Comes in a hardwood version

Cons:

-Feet can sometimes slip off the violin

Click here for pricing on Amazon

3. Wolf Forte Secundo Shoulder Rest

For those of you with longer necks, this is a good option with feet that twist out farther for a better fit. The screws or height adjusters are also very thick so the shoulder rest won’t wobble if you do adjust the feet for a taller height. It’s extremely customizable. You can even bend the metal backing plate to fit your shoulder. The only negative is that the feet may loose their grip and fall off your violin.