What is the best armor set for stealth in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The best armor set for stealth in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the Sheikah Set, also known as the Stealth Set. This set includes the Sheikah Mask, Sheikah Clothes, and Sheikah Trousers. When worn together, the set provides a stealth boost, making it easier for Link to sneak past enemies, wildlife, and other threats without being detected. The stealth mechanic in the game is tied to how much noise Link makes while moving, and the Sheikah Set reduces the sound of his footsteps, allowing him to move more quietly. Additionally, the set can be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains to further enhance its stealth capabilities and provide additional defense.

To obtain the Sheikah Set, you need to visit Kakariko Village, which is one of the first major settlements you encounter in the game. The Sheikah Clothes can be purchased from the clothing shop in Kakariko Village called Enchanted. The Sheikah Mask and Sheikah Trousers are also available in the same shop, but you need to complete a side quest called "Find the Fairy Fountain" to unlock the full set. This quest involves speaking to Pikango, the painter near Impa's house, who will guide you to the nearby Great Fairy Fountain. Once you activate the fountain, the full Sheikah Set becomes available for purchase.

The stealth mechanic in Breath of the Wild is crucial for avoiding combat, sneaking up on enemies for stealth strikes, and collecting resources like insects, lizards, and fish without scaring them away. The Sheikah Set's stealth boost is particularly useful in these scenarios. For example, when hunting for stealth-enhancing ingredients like Silent Shrooms or Sneaky River Snails, wearing the Sheikah Set allows you to approach wildlife without startling them. Similarly, when infiltrating enemy camps, the set lets you sneak past guards or take them out quietly with a bow or melee weapon.

Upgrading the Sheikah Set at Great Fairy Fountains requires specific materials. To upgrade the set to its maximum potential, you will need Silent Shrooms, Sunset Fireflies, and Sneaky River Snails, among other items. These materials can be found in various locations across Hyrule. Silent Shrooms are commonly found in forested areas, Sunset Fireflies can be caught near bodies of water at night, and Sneaky River Snails are found in shallow water. Collecting these materials in advance will save time when you visit a Great Fairy Fountain to upgrade your armor.

One common mistake players make is not upgrading the Sheikah Set early in the game. While the set is useful even at its base level, upgrading it significantly improves its effectiveness. Another mistake is relying solely on stealth without considering other factors, such as enemy placement and environmental hazards. For example, even with the Sheikah Set, you can still be detected if you run or make sudden movements. To avoid this, crouch and move slowly when sneaking past enemies or approaching wildlife.

Advanced techniques for using the Sheikah Set include combining it with stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals. For example, cooking a dish with Silent Shrooms or Sneaky River Snails can provide an additional stealth boost, making you even harder to detect. Additionally, using the set in conjunction with stealth-based weapons like the Sheikah Slate's Stasis Rune or the Master Sword's beam attack can help you take out enemies from a distance without alerting others.

An alternative approach to stealth is using the Dark Link Set, which provides a similar stealth boost but is more difficult to obtain. This set is available in the Gerudo Secret Club in Gerudo Town and requires a significant amount of rupees to purchase. While the Dark Link Set offers a unique aesthetic, the Sheikah Set is generally more accessible and easier to upgrade.

In specific scenarios, the Sheikah Set shines. For example, when completing the "Shrouded Shrine" quest in Kakariko Village, the set allows you to sneak past the Yiga Clan members without being detected. Similarly, when hunting for rare creatures like the Blupee or the Lord of the Mountain, the Sheikah Set makes it easier to approach them without scaring them off.

In conclusion, the Sheikah Set is the best armor for stealth in Breath of the Wild due to its accessibility, effectiveness, and upgrade potential. By obtaining and upgrading the set, collecting the necessary materials, and using advanced techniques, you can maximize your stealth capabilities and tackle the game's challenges with ease. Whether you're sneaking past enemies, hunting for rare creatures, or completing stealth-based quests, the Sheikah Set is an invaluable tool in your arsenal.