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 sneak past enemies, collect resources, and avoid detection in dense environments.

To obtain the Stealth Set, you need to visit Kakariko Village, where the armor is sold by the shopkeeper, Claree. The Stealth Mask costs 500 rupees, the Stealth Chest Guard costs 1,000 rupees, and the Stealth Tights cost 500 rupees. You will need a total of 2,000 rupees to purchase the entire set. Rupees can be earned by selling valuable items like gems, monster parts, or cooked meals. Once you have the set, wearing all three pieces grants a stealth bonus, making Link harder to detect by enemies and wildlife.

The Stealth Set's primary benefit is its ability to reduce the noise Link makes while moving, which is crucial in forested areas where enemies like Stalkoblins, Keese, and even Guardians may be present. Additionally, the set allows you to approach animals like deer, boars, and birds more easily, making it ideal for hunting or collecting materials like raw meat and feathers. The stealth bonus also helps in sneaking up on enemies for sneak strikes, which deal significant damage and can turn the tide in combat.

To maximize the effectiveness of the Stealth Set, consider upgrading it at Great Fairy Fountains. Upgrading requires specific materials, such as Blue Nightshade, Sunset Fireflies, and Silent Shrooms, which can be found in forested areas or purchased from merchants. Each upgrade level increases the set's defense and enhances its stealth capabilities. Fully upgrading the Stealth Set to level 4 provides a significant defense boost, making it viable for both exploration and combat.

When exploring forests, it's important to manage your resources wisely. Carry plenty of arrows, as they are useful for hunting and dealing with enemies from a distance. Additionally, stock up on healing items like cooked meals or elixirs, as forests can be dangerous, especially at night when stronger enemies like Stal enemies appear. Using stealth to avoid unnecessary fights can save resources and keep you alive longer.

A common mistake players make is relying solely on the Stealth Set without considering other armor options. While the Stealth Set is excellent for sneaking, it may not provide enough defense in combat-heavy areas. In such cases, consider switching to a high-defense set like the Soldier's Armor or the Ancient Armor. Alternatively, you can mix and match armor pieces to balance stealth and defense. For example, wearing the Stealth Mask with the Soldier's Chest Guard and Tights can provide a good balance of stealth and protection.

Advanced players can optimize their exploration by combining the Stealth Set with stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals. Ingredients like Silent Shrooms, Sneaky River Snails, and Sunset Fireflies can be cooked to create dishes that further boost stealth. These can be particularly useful when navigating areas with high enemy density or when attempting to sneak past powerful foes like Lynels or Guardians.

In summary, the Stealth Set is the best armor for exploring forests in Breath of the Wild due to its stealth-enhancing properties. To obtain it, gather 2,000 rupees and purchase the set in Kakariko Village. Upgrade it at Great Fairy Fountains using forest-specific materials, and consider combining it with stealth-enhancing meals or elixirs for maximum effectiveness. Avoid relying solely on the Stealth Set in combat-heavy areas, and always manage your resources carefully to ensure a successful exploration experience.