Boxing shoes are really a nessiciaty until you get in the actual ring. With you first starting out, you just need some basic athletic workout shoes. Like nike, reebok, etc. etc. Glad to know you are joining boxing. They are more expensive but you are probably going to want to purchase a heavy bag, because you wont be at the gym 24/7 so you will need something at home. Along with some work out gloves which are just about 25-30 bucks. Other than that you should be set. And be sure above all to have fun with it.