A picturesque view of Hateno Village at night

In Zelda’s Breath of the Wild, armor is a key element of gameplay. It allows you to traverse various regions that might otherwise be unavailable to Link due to factors like extreme temperatures, upgrade your stats so that you can become stronger, and look fashionable while traveling across Hyrule. Each armor has its own advantage for players to utilize in their playthrough, and while there are some undeniable favorites among the Breath of the Wild community, ultimately it all depends on the player themselves and their own particular playing style.

There are some armors that are your staple outfits, whereas some are required in order to progress the story, like with the Gerudo Vai Set. A few act as collectible armors located in hidden chests or shrines to better aid players in their journey’s progress, and then some exist as a way to expand the immersiveness of the game and the world of Hyrule. Take a dip in the colorful vats at Kochi Dye Shop in Hateno Village to color-customize your outfits or visit the dazzling Great Fairies at their Fountains to upgrade your armor with an explosion of glitter and a kiss. 

Some of these outfits, however, are wholly dependent on player’s choice of progression. For instance, the story tends to guide players to Kakariko Village, followed by the Zora Domain, and then, to a lesser degree, Goron City. But overall Breath of the Wild is an open-world game, and so whereas I personally went to Rito Village and then Gerudo Town after Zora’s Domain, others might flip the order, or just go straight to Hyrule Castle if they’re looking for a speedrun record with Link still in his underwear. So you might want to acquire these outfits at different times based on where you plan to go or what you plan to do, but this guide lays out a good foundation for what players should keep in mind regarding Breath of the Wild armors.

 

10. Hylian Set (early game):

Simple, sturdy, and stylish

Hylian Tunic Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Cost: 120 rupees
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes

The Breath of the Wild description states that the Hylian Tunic is “A common garb popular in Hyrule, especially among travelers. Its light-yet-sturdy fabric doesn’t limit movement.” This is a stylish, sturdy outfit excellent for beginner players that can also be color-customized at Kochi Dye Shop in Hateno Village for just 20 rupees.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Early Game:

Since the ingredients needed to upgrade this armor are available relatively quickly for new players, it is one of the easiest sets to fully upgrade early on within the game. This is an outfit great for boosting defense, and a fun one to customize - only made better by Link’s briefly terrified expression before he’s plunged into a vat of colored dye. Until players are able to get better and stronger armors, this is a good go-to outfit for traversing Hyrule. 

What the Hylian Set excels in:

• Good defense and easy upgrades
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense - needs 5 Bokoblin Horns to upgrade
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense - needs 8 Bokoblin Horns and 5 Bokoblin Fangs
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense - needs 10 Bokoblin Fangs and 5 Bokoblin Guti
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense - needs 15 Bokoblin Guts and 15 Amber 

How to get the Hylian Set: 

This outfit set can be purchased from the clothing shops in Kakariko Village and Hateno Village, however the trousers can be obtained for free on the Great Plateau in a chest within a section of ruins northeast of the Temple of Time.

 

9. Sheikah Set (early game):

For when you really don’t want to fight a bunch of Lizalfos

Sheikah Set Stats:

• Base Defense 6 (per piece)
• Items: Stealth Mask, Stealth Chest Guard, Stealth Tights
• Cost: 1800 rupees
• Uses: Increases stealth
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Night Speed Up

This armor set is described in the game as “Armor designed for stealth, passed down through the Sheikah tribe. Its special fabric suppresses sound.” This is a piece of Sheikah culture, something that has been slowly dying out in the land of Hyrule, and so while it looks great and allows players to stealth around to their heart's content, it also evokes a deeper sense of immersion into the game’s worldbuilding, reminding players how much as been lost and why it’s crucial that Link succeed in his quest.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Early Game:

Whether you want to sneak up on different fishes or insects, or you want to sneak attack enemies, this is very helpful for players both new and old. Although defensively the weakest armor in the game, its benefit in granting increased stealth is undeniably effective and a good option to have when first starting out.

What the Sheikah Set excels in:

• Effective Stealth:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 4 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Blue Nightshades
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 6 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Blue Nightshades and 5 Sunset Fireflies
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 9 Armor Defense Increase - 8 Silent Shrooms and 5 Sneaky River Snail 
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 16 Armor Defense Increase - 10 Stealthfin Trouts and 5 Silent Princess Flowers

How to get the Sheikah Set:

Unfortunately for broke newbies or frugal adventurers, the Sheikah Set (or Stealth Set as it’s otherwise called) is one that can only be purchased in the Armor Shop in Kakariko Village. Pricing in at 1800 rupees, it’s enough to make anyone wince, however it is an incredibly worthwhile purchase, especially for players who like to avoid more difficult fights at all costs or for getting to various Sheikah Towers to unlock more of the map.

 

8. Zora Set (early-mid game):

Get a taste of true Zora culture - complete with unique waterfall swims

Zora Set Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Items: Zora Helm, Zora Armor, Zora Greaves
• Cost: Free; given as a reward or found in chests
• Uses: Increases swim speed, Helm gives the ability to do a spin attack in water, Armor allows Link to swim up waterfalls
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Swim Dash Stamina Up

Breath of the Wild describes the Zora Armor as “Armor crafted by each generation’s Zora princess for her future husband. Equip it to swim up waterfalls.” This is an invaluable armor to have in the Zora Domain, and additionally it gives players insight into more of the story and Link’s past relationship with Zora Champion Midna.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Early To Mid Game:

This armor can help you better navigate and fight in bodies of water. It’s especially helpful in the Zora Domain whether you’re exploring, grinding monsters for an easy rupee, or just want to see what it’s like to swim up waterfalls, but can be used throughout Hyrule, making it a convenient armor to possess. Additionally, all it’s pieces can be obtained without spending rupees, which is undoubtedly appealing to players who are low on cash and still getting used to the game.

What the Zora Set excels in:

• Boosted Swim Speed and Attacks:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Lizalfos Horns
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Lizalfos Horns and 5 Hyrule Basses
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Lizalfos Tails and 5 Hearty Basses
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 10 Lizalfos Tails and 15 Opals

How to get the Zora Set:

The Zora Armor (or what you might think of as the chest plate) can be acquired after speaking with King Dorephan. The Zora Helm can be found in Toto Lake using your Magnesis Rune to fish up a chest submerged amongst the underwater ruins there. Finally, the Zora Greaves are awarded to players once they complete the Lynel Safari side quest.

  

7. Flamebreaker (mid game):

With this armor now you can enjoy refreshing hot lava springs (Don’t actually jump in the lava guys)

Flamebreaker Set Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Items: Flamebreaker Helm, Flamebreaker Armor, Flamebreaker Boots
• Cost: 3300 rupees - 2700 rupees + 10 Fireproof Lizards
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Fireproof

Described in-game as, “Armor crafted by Gorons for Hylians curious enough to visit Goron City. It’s made from fire-resistant rocks to protect the wearer.” It reflects the volcanic and metallic style of the Goron, and while not as elegant as some other available armors in the game, it certainly gets the job done.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Mid Game:

Lower on the list due to the sheer cost, this is a handy armor to have once you brave the burning air of Death Mountain. Fireproof Elixirs also stave off heat damage, but for players that want to save rupees, the Flamebreaker Armor is often considered a worthwhile purchase. Death Mountain is rife with ore deposits and creatures like the Igneo Talus, which this armor can protect you from, and so for people hoping to farm rupees, this armor ensures there’s no time limit to your explorations. 

What the Flamebreaker Set excels in:

• Flame Resistant/Flame Guard and Fireproof Set Bonus:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 1 Fireproof Lizard and 2 Moblin Horns
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Fireproof Lizards and 4 Moblin Fangs
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Smotherwing Butterflies and 3 Moblin Guts
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Smotherwing Butterflies and 2 Hinox Guts 

*Upgrading the entire set to at least Level 2 provides Link with a Fireproof Set Bonus, meaning he takes no damage from fire.

*Also note that Flame Resistant does NOT mean Heat Resistant - this armor has no effect in the Gerudo Desert region.

How to get the Flamebreaker Set:

This set can be purchased in the Ripped and Shredded Armor shop in Goron City. The Flamebreaker Helm costs 2000 rupees, the Flamebreaker Armor costs 2700 rupees and 10 Fireproof Lizards, and the Flamebreaker Boots cost 700 rupees.

 

6. Gerudo (Vai) Set (mid game):

The only outfit that's not a fashion crime in Gerudo Town 

Gerudo Set Stats:

• Base Defense 1 (per piece - totaling in 3 base defense)
• Quests: Forbidden City Entry
• Items: Gerudo Veil, Gerudo Top, Gerudo Sirwal
• Cost: 600 rupees (Vilia)
• Uses: Allows entry to Gerudo Town
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: No
• Set Bonus: Heat-Resistant

The Gerudo Set is a “Standard Gerudo garb popular for its open, breathable design and for the traditional Gerudo markings that adorn it.” A popular outfit among Breath of the Wild fans, this is an outfit players must acquire in order to experience the full extent of Breath of the Wild’s story. 

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Mid Game:

One factor that separates Gerudo Town from other towns and villages across Hyrule is that only Vai - or women - are allowed inside, meaning that without a disguise, Link is not able to enter the town. This armor is crucial to advancing the main game’s story; without it, you will not be able to enter Gerudo Town and accept the quest of freeing Divine Beast Vah Naboris from Calamity Ganon’s control. It’s also just a cute outfit with a flair of Gerudo style, as well as heat resistant so you can travel the desert comfortably without spending rupees on foods like Hydromelons to keep you cool.

What the Gerudo Vai Set excels in:

• Heat Resistant and Story Progression
  • Heat resistance effects only come into play with the full set - wearing one or two pieces will render it as ordinary clothing

    *Note that Heat Resistant does NOT mean Flame Resistant - this armor will have no effect in the Eldin Region or on Death Mountain.

How to get the Gerudo Vai Set:

In order to access Gerudo Town, you need to  be denied entry into Gerudo Town, which kickstarts the Main Quest “Forbidden City Entry”. Then players must go to the Kara Kara Bazaar just before the town, and find a man named Vilia at the very top of the large rock formation over the Kara Kara Bazaar Inn. He will sell you the full Gerudo Vai set for 600 rupees. Upon entry into Gerudo Town, the shop Fashion Passion will sell you a Gerudo Veil, Gerudo Top, and a Gerudo Sirwal each for 180 rupees.

 

5. Desert Voe (mid game):

An outfit so hot it’ll get Link kicked out of Gerudo Town

Desert Voe Set Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Items: Desert Voe Headband, Desert Voe SPaulder, Desert Voe Trousers
• Cost: 2400 rupees
• Uses: Heat Resistance
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Shock Damage Resist

Listed as “Armor for males sold rarely by Gerudo retailers. It contains sapphire, which harnesses the power of ice to make hot climates more tolerable.” Different from the Gerudo Vai clothing set, this set grants Link a lot more freedom and maneuverability in exploring the desert due to its higher stats.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Mid Game:

Although this armor won’t grant you access into Gerudo Town like the Vai Set would, this one is both heat resistant and enhanceable, making it a good armor to have for exploring the desert and fighting monsters like the fearsome Molduga or members of the Yiga Clan for various side quests. Once enhanced, it even provides Shock Resistance as well. 

What the Desert Voe Set excels in:

• Heat Resistance and Shock Damage Resistance:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 3 White Chuchu Jellies
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 5 White Chuchu Jellies and 3 Ice Keese Wings
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 8 Ice Keese Wings and 5 Icy Lizalfos Tails
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 10 Icy Lizalfos tails and 5 Sapphires 

How to get the Desert Voe Set:

Upon completing “The Secret Club’s Secret” side quest, Link will have access to the Gerudo Secret Club in Gerudo Town, where he can purchase the Desert Voe Headband for 450 rupees, the Desert Voe Spaulder for 1300 rupees, and the Desert Voe Trousers for 650 rupees. If players have completed side quests that result in the building of Tarrey Town, this armor can also be purchased at the Rhondson Armor Boutique.

 

4. Snowquill Set (mid-late game):

From the windy skies to the icy peaks, Link will always be warm

Snowquill Set Stats:

• Base Defense 9 (or 3 per piece)
• Items: Snowquill Headdress, Snowquill Tunic, Snowquill Trousers
• Cost: 2150 rupees
• Uses: Cold Resistance
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Unfreezable

The Snowquill Set is described as, “Made by Rito artisans, this tunic stacks molted Rito feathers in each layer to help retain body heat.” Modeled after the Rito style of clothing, this outfit is an elegant and aesthetic way to stay warm in all the chilly spots across Hyrule.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Mid To Late Game:

Where elixirs and meals meant to stave off extreme temperatures waste both money and ingredients, the Snowquill armor is a one-time purchase that you can put on for protection against the elements without any additional effort. In fact, for many outfits you don’t even need the helmet or headdress to feel the armor’s effects - simply pop on the Snowquill Trousers and Tunic and find yourself warm and toasty atop Mount Hebra. Not only is this tactic useful but it also can spare cash-strapped adventurers some rupees until they’ve saved up a little more.  

What the Snowquill Set excels in:

• Cold Resistance and Unfreezable Set Bonus:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Red Chuchu Jellies
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Red Chuchu Jellies and 3 Warm Saffinas 
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 8 Fire Keese WIngs and 5 Sunshrooms
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 10 Red Lizalfos Tails and 5 Rubies 

How to get the Snowquill Set:

This set can only be purchased in Rito Village, specifically in the Brazen Beak Armor Shop. Link can purchase the Snowquill Headdress for 1000 rupees, the Snowquill Tunic for 600 rupees, and the Snowquill Trousers for 550 rupees.

 

3. Climbing Set (mid-late game):

Twilight Princess had Wolf Link, now Breath of the Wild has Mountaineer Link 

Climbing Set Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Items: Climber’s Bandana, Climbing Gear, Climbing Boots
• Uses: Increases climbing speed, reduces stamina use when jumping during climbing (set bonus)
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Climbing Jump Stamina Up

“The ancient technology in this gear will make you a better climber. The special no-slip gloves help you use your energy more efficiently to facilitate nimble climbing.” The Climbing Set is a great armor for all Breath of the Wild explorers who just want to go everywhere.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Mid To Late Game:

An incredible boon, especially for players like me who find the most enjoyment in exploring every nook and cranny of Hyrule. Unlike many of the other armors in the game, however, this can only be obtained through completing shrines, one of which is a “Major Test of Strength” meaning players have to fight a Guardian. For new players, this prospect can be daunting, so it’s good to seek out the climbing gear when you feel comfortable in your weapons, armor upgrades, and amount of heart vessels.

What the Climbing Set excels in:

• Climbing Speed and Climbing Jump Stamina Up Set Bonus:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Keese Wings and 3 Rushrooms
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Electric Keese Wings and 5 Hightail Lizards
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Ice Keese Wings and 10 Hot-Footed frogs
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 5 Fire Keese Wings and 15 Swift Violets

    *Set Bonus can only be archived once players upgrade the entire Climbing Set to Level 2.

How to get the Climbing Set:

The Climber’s Bandana can be found in the Ree Dahee Shrine which is located under the Dueling Peaks on a ledge alongside the river that runs between them. The Climbing Gear can be found in the Chaas Qeta Shrine which is located on Tenoko Island off the southeastern coast of the Hateno Region. The Climbing Boots can be found in the Tahno O’ah Shrine which is located on an eastern cliffside of Lanayru Ridge by blowing up a cluster of cracked rocks to reveal the shrine. All items of this Set can be rebought afterward from Granté in Tarrey Town.

 

2. Barbarian Armor Set (late game):

Forget going wild, Link’s ready to go berserk

Barbarian Armor Set Stats:

• Base Defense 3
• Items: Barbarian Helm, Barbarian Armor, Barbarian Leg Wraps
• Cost: Free in shrines; 4000 rupees apiece if rebought from Granté
• Uses: Increases Attack Power (+20% / +30% / +50%), Level 2 Upgrade reduces spin attack stamina cost (to the half)
• Dyeable: Yes
• Enhanceable: Yes
• Set Bonus: Charge Attack Stamina Up 

This is “Armor once favored by an ancient warlike tribe from the Faron region. The war paint bolsters your fighting spirit and raises your attack power.” The Barbarian Armor is a unique and interesting set of armor that not only hints to old Hyrulian history but also boosts Link’s attack power in a way few other armors in the game do. It is an armor that tests the limits of players and rewards their success.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Late Game:

This set is for experienced or avid players who want to see the most impact in their fights against bigger, harder enemies. The items alone required to upgrade it - Lynel and Dragon parts - alongside the difficulty that comes with obtaining this Set makes it both a late game armor and one of the hardest sets to upgrade in the game. However the additional attack power and set bonus is definitely thought to be worth the effort.

What the Barbarian Armor Set excels in:

• Attack Power and Charge Attack Stamina Up Set Bonus:
• Level 1 Upgrade: 5 Armor Defense Increase - 1 Lynel Horn
• Level 2 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Lynel Horns and 2 Lynel Hooves
• Level 3 Upgrade: 12 Armor Defense Increase - 4 Lynel Hooves and 1 Lynel Guts
• Level 4 Upgrade: 20 Armor Defense Increase - 2 Lynel Guts and 1 Dragon’s Horn Shard
• Helm Level 4 Upgrade requires Shard of Dinraal’s Horn
• Armor Level 4 Upgrade requires Shard of Farosh’s Horn
• Leg Wraps Level 4 Upgrade requires Shard of Naydra’s Horn 

Attack Power Stats:

• Attack Up Level 1 = + 20% Increased Damage
• Attack Up Level 2 = + 30% Increased Damage
• Attack Up Level 3 = + 50% Increased Damage

How to get the Barbarian Armor Set:

The Barbarian Helm can be found in the Tu Ka’loh Shrine at the Lomei Labyrinth Island. The Barbarian Armor can be found in the Dila Maag Shrine at the South Lomei Labyrinth. And finally, the Barbarian Leg Wraps can be found in the Qaza Tokki Shrine at the North Lomei Labyrinth.

 

1. Champion’s Tunic (early-late game):

Hyrule's Champion…and his faithful dog, Lassie

Champion’s Tunic Stats:

• Base Defense 5
• Uses: Displays the HP of enemies, high defense when fully enhanced
• Dyeable: No
• Enhanceable: Yes

Link’s signature outfit is described in the game as: “In ancient Hyrule, only those respected by the royal family could wear this garment.” Stylish, iconic, and highly useful, this is an armor that any Breath of the Wild fan would recognize.

Why It’s A Good Armor To Have Throughout The Game:

Defense is a must-have for any game where fighting is a key game mechanic, and the Champion’s Tunic is one that allows players to stack levels to an astonishing degree, making it an essential item in any Breath of the Wild wardrobe. What makes it even more useful is that wearing it allows players to see the health of enemies, allowing them to make an informed decision before picking a fight they may or may not win. Although not dyeable, this outfit’s enhancement capabilities fully make up for that and remind players why Link is the great Hero of legend.

What the Champion’s Tunic excels in:

• Defense Stacking and Enemy Health Insight:
  • Level 1 Upgrade: 8 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Silent Princess Flowers
  • Level 2 Upgrade: 14 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Silent Princess Flowers and 2 Shards of Farosh’s Horn
  • Level 3 Upgrade: 22 Armor Defense Increase - 3 Silent Princess Flowers and 2 Shards of Naydra’s Horn
  • Level 4 Upgrade: 32 Armor Defense Increase - 10 Silent Princess Flowers and 2 Shards of Dinraal’s Horn 

How to get the Champion’s Tunic:

Players can get the Champion’s Tunic from Impa in Kakariko Village after Link has recovered at least one of the memories from Zelda’s photos on his Sheikah Slate.

Breath of the Wild is fun because of its versatility of armors. There are sets for every kind of player, whether you want to beat Ganon in five minutes or just collect them all like Ash Ketchum. Some help enhance the story while others simply enhance Link's fashion sense - a major upgrade from how he first woke up, let me tell you - but no matter what, the different armors in this game all help craft an unforgettable experience for players and are definitely a crucial aspect of the narrative woven for us by Eiji Aonuma.

 

 

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