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 is often required to avoid enemies or sneak past obstacles. The Stealth Set consists of three pieces: the Stealth Mask, Stealth Chest Guard, and Stealth Tights. Each piece of the set increases Link's stealth, making it easier to move quietly and avoid detection by enemies or wildlife. When all three pieces are worn together, the set bonus further enhances Link's stealth, allowing him to move even more silently.

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, each costing 500 rupees. Once you have all three pieces, you can start upgrading them at Great Fairy Fountains to increase their defense and unlock the set bonus. Upgrading the Stealth Set requires materials like Silent Shrooms, Sunset Fireflies, and Sneaky River Snails, which can be found in various locations throughout Hyrule. Silent Shrooms are commonly found in forested areas, while Sunset Fireflies can be caught at night near bodies of water. Sneaky River Snails are found in shallow water, particularly in the Zora River area.

When exploring the forest, the Stealth Set is invaluable for several reasons. First, it allows you to sneak past enemies like Stalkoblins and Keese without alerting them, which is especially useful in areas with dense enemy populations. Second, the set makes it easier to approach and catch wildlife, such as deer and boars, which can be used for cooking and crafting. Third, the Stealth Set is beneficial for completing certain quests and challenges that require you to move quietly, such as the "Flown the Coop" side quest in Kakariko Village, where you need to catch cuccos without being detected.

One important tip when using the Stealth Set is to crouch while moving. Crouching reduces the noise you make, making it even harder for enemies to detect you. Additionally, you can use stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals to further boost your stealth capabilities. For example, cooking a meal with Silent Shrooms and a monster part will create a dish that temporarily increases your stealth. This can be particularly useful in situations where you need to remain undetected for an extended period.

A common mistake to avoid is relying solely on the Stealth Set without considering other environmental factors. For example, in the Lost Woods, the primary challenge is navigating the foggy maze, which requires you to follow the direction of the wind and the embers from the torches. While the Stealth Set can help you avoid enemies, it won't help you navigate the maze itself. Therefore, it's important to pay attention to the environment and use the appropriate tools, such as a torch, to guide your way.

For advanced players, combining the Stealth Set with other stealth-enhancing items can create a highly effective setup. For example, using the Sheikah Slate's Stasis rune to freeze enemies temporarily can give you an opportunity to sneak past them without being detected. Additionally, using stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals before entering a forested area can give you an extra edge. Another advanced technique is to use the environment to your advantage, such as hiding behind trees or using tall grass to remain concealed.

In terms of preparation, it's a good idea to stock up on stealth-enhancing materials before heading into the forest. This includes collecting Silent Shrooms, Sunset Fireflies, and Sneaky River Snails, as well as any other ingredients that can be used to create stealth-enhancing meals or elixirs. Additionally, make sure your inventory is well-stocked with weapons, shields, and arrows, as you may still encounter enemies that require combat.

An alternative approach to exploring the forest is to use the Climbing Set, which increases your climbing speed and stamina. This can be useful for navigating the terrain and avoiding enemies by taking higher paths. However, the Climbing Set does not provide the same level of stealth as the Stealth Set, so you may need to rely more on combat or evasion techniques.

In specific scenarios, such as the Korok Forest, the Stealth Set is particularly useful for sneaking past the Deku Baba plants and other enemies that guard the area. Additionally, the set can help you approach the Great Deku Tree without alerting the surrounding enemies. Overall, the Stealth Set is the best choice for exploring forested areas in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, providing a balance of stealth, defense, and versatility that makes it an essential part of any adventurer's arsenal.