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

The best armor set for exploring the mountains in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the Snowquill Set. This set is specifically designed to provide resistance to cold environments, which is essential for traversing the snowy regions of Hyrule, such as the Hebra Mountains, Mount Lanayru, and the Gerudo Highlands. The Snowquill Set consists of three pieces: the Snowquill Headdress, Snowquill Tunic, and Snowquill Trousers. Each piece provides cold resistance, and when all three are worn together, they grant the "Unfreezable" set bonus, which prevents Link from being frozen by enemies or environmental effects.

To obtain the Snowquill Set, you need to visit Rito Village, located in the Tabantha region. The village is situated on a large rock formation and is home to the Rito, a bird-like race. Once in Rito Village, head to the clothing shop called "Brazen Beak." The shop is run by a Rito named Greta, and she sells the Snowquill Headdress for 650 Rupees, the Snowquill Tunic for 500 Rupees, and the Snowquill Trousers for 700 Rupees. Make sure you have enough Rupees before heading to the shop, as the total cost for the entire set is 1,850 Rupees.

Once you have the Snowquill Set, you can start exploring the mountains. However, it is important to note that the set only provides level 2 cold resistance, which is sufficient for most cold areas but not for the extreme cold found in certain regions, such as the peak of Mount Lanayru. For these areas, you will need additional cold resistance, which can be achieved by consuming food or elixirs that provide cold resistance. For example, cooking a dish with Spicy Peppers, Sunshrooms, or Warm Safflina will grant temporary cold resistance. Alternatively, you can create an elixir using a Cold Darner or Winterwing Butterfly combined with a monster part.

Upgrading the Snowquill Set at Great Fairy Fountains is highly recommended to increase its defense and make it more effective in combat. To upgrade the set, you will need materials such as Red Chuchu Jelly, Warm Safflina, and Fireproof Lizards. Each upgrade level requires more materials, so be prepared to gather a significant amount of resources. The first upgrade requires 3 Red Chuchu Jelly and 3 Warm Safflina for each piece, the second upgrade requires 5 Red Chuchu Jelly and 5 Warm Safflina, the third upgrade requires 10 Red Chuchu Jelly and 5 Fireproof Lizards, and the fourth upgrade requires 20 Red Chuchu Jelly and 10 Fireproof Lizards.

When exploring the mountains, it is important to be prepared for combat, as many enemies in these areas are strong and can deal significant damage. The Snowquill Set provides decent defense, but it is not the best for combat. Therefore, it is advisable to carry a strong weapon, shield, and bow, as well as healing items like Hearty Durians or Mighty Bananas. Additionally, be cautious of environmental hazards such as falling rocks, avalanches, and icy surfaces that can cause Link to slip and fall.

One common mistake players make is relying solely on the Snowquill Set without considering other sources of cold resistance. While the set is effective, it is always a good idea to carry some cold-resistant food or elixirs as a backup, especially when exploring areas with extreme cold. Another mistake is not upgrading the set, which can leave Link vulnerable to stronger enemies. Upgrading the set not only increases its defense but also enhances its cold resistance, making it more effective in harsh environments.

For advanced players, combining the Snowquill Set with other armor pieces can provide additional benefits. For example, wearing the Snowquill Headdress with the Champion's Tunic and Snowquill Trousers can provide a balance of cold resistance and high defense. Additionally, using the set bonus "Unfreezable" can be particularly useful when facing enemies that use freezing attacks, such as Ice Wizzrobes or Frost Taluses.

In summary, the Snowquill Set is the best armor for exploring the mountains in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It provides essential cold resistance and can be upgraded to increase its effectiveness. By preparing adequately, upgrading the set, and carrying additional cold-resistant items, you can safely and effectively explore the snowy regions of Hyrule.