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

The best armor set for exploring the forest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the Stealth Set, also known as the Sheikah Set. This set is particularly useful in forested areas like the Lost Woods and Korok Forest, where stealth and quiet movement are essential. The Stealth Set consists of three pieces: the Stealth Mask, Stealth Chest Guard, and Stealth Tights. Each piece enhances Link's stealth, making it easier to avoid enemies, sneak up on wildlife, and collect resources without being noticed. When all three pieces are worn together, the set bonus grants a significant increase in movement speed at night, which is helpful for navigating dense forests quickly.

To obtain the Stealth Set, you need to visit Kakariko Village. The Stealth Chest Guard can be purchased from the clothing shop in the village for 500 rupees. The Stealth Mask and Stealth Tights are also available in the same shop, costing 1,800 rupees each. If you don't have enough rupees, you can sell valuable items like gems, monster parts, or cooked meals to earn the necessary funds. Once you have all three pieces, you can upgrade them at Great Fairy Fountains to increase their defense and unlock the set bonus. Upgrading requires materials like Silent Shrooms, Sunset Fireflies, and Sneaky River Snails, which can be found in forested areas or near bodies of water.

When exploring forests, the Stealth Set's primary advantage is its ability to reduce the noise Link makes while moving. This is particularly useful in areas like the Lost Woods, where enemies like Stalkoblins and Keese can be avoided entirely if you move quietly. Additionally, the set's stealth bonus makes it easier to approach wildlife, such as deer and boars, which are often found in forested areas. This is helpful for gathering meat and other resources needed for cooking and upgrades. The set bonus, which increases movement speed at night, is especially useful for traversing large forested areas quickly, allowing you to cover more ground in less time.

One important tip when using the Stealth Set is to avoid running or jumping, as these actions create noise and can alert nearby enemies. Instead, walk or crouch to maintain maximum stealth. If you need to move quickly, use the set bonus at night to increase your speed without sacrificing stealth. Another consideration is the set's low defense compared to other armor sets. While the Stealth Set is excellent for avoiding combat, it may not be the best choice if you expect to engage in frequent battles. In such cases, consider switching to a higher-defense set like the Soldier's Armor or the Ancient Armor.

A common mistake players make is relying solely on the Stealth Set without considering other environmental factors. For example, in areas with extreme temperatures, such as the Eldin region, the Stealth Set offers no protection against heat or cold. In these situations, you may need to switch to armor sets with environmental resistance, like the Flamebreaker Set or the Snowquill Set. Additionally, the Stealth Set does not provide any protection against elemental attacks, so be cautious when facing enemies that use fire, ice, or electricity.

For advanced players, combining the Stealth Set with stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals can further improve your ability to move undetected. Ingredients like Silent Shrooms, Sneaky River Snails, and Sunset Fireflies can be cooked into dishes that temporarily boost stealth. These can be useful in situations where you need to sneak past particularly vigilant enemies or collect rare resources without being noticed. Additionally, using the Sheikah Sensor+ to track specific materials or enemies can help you navigate forests more efficiently, allowing you to focus on your objectives without getting lost.

In summary, the Stealth Set is the best armor for exploring forests in Breath of the Wild due to its stealth-enhancing abilities and set bonus. To obtain it, visit Kakariko Village and purchase the pieces from the clothing shop. Upgrade the set at Great Fairy Fountains to increase its defense and unlock the set bonus. Use the set to move quietly, avoid enemies, and collect resources, but be mindful of its low defense and lack of environmental protection. Combine the Stealth Set with stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals for even greater effectiveness, and use the Sheikah Sensor+ to navigate forests efficiently. By following these strategies, you can explore the forests of Hyrule with ease and confidence.