The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) offers a vast open-world experience filled with adventure, puzzles, and many unique gameplay elements. One of the most enjoyable and exhilarating features in the game is shield surfing, a technique that allows Link to ride on shields, gliding down hills and slopes at high speeds. But not all shields are created equal when it comes to shield surfing. Some provide better control, stability, and speed, while others are more fragile and not ideal for the task. If you’re wondering which shield is best for shield surfing in BotW, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore the top shields for shield surfing and discuss their advantages and disadvantages, helping you choose the perfect one for your next adventure.
Understanding Shield Surfing in Breath of the Wild
Shield surfing is a fun and practical way to travel quickly across Hyrule’s vast landscapes, particularly when you want to descend hills or travel across flat terrain. Unlike traditional surfing, shield surfing in BotW requires you to equip a shield and ride it like a snowboard, using your momentum to glide over the terrain.
There are a few things to keep in mind when shield surfing in BotW:
To start shield surfing, you need to have a shield equipped and press the appropriate button (default is the ZL trigger) while moving downhill.
Shield surfing speeds up as you move downhill, but if you hit obstacles or steep slopes, your shield can break, so you need to choose wisely.
Some shields are more suited for this activity due to their durability, speed, and stability, while others may be prone to breaking easily.
Now, let’s dive into the types of shields you should consider when planning your next shield-surfing adventure in Hyrule!
The 5 Best Shields for Shield Surfing
There are many shields in the game, but not all are good for shield surfing. Let’s explore the shields that stand out in terms of performance, durability, and fun factor for shield surfing in BotW.
1. Hylian Shield
The Hylian Shield is the most iconic and powerful shield in all of Zelda. It boasts incredible defense and durability, making it a solid choice for combat. But what about shield surfing? The Hylian Shield is considered one of the best shields for shield surfing in Breath of the Wild due to its stability and balance.
Pros:
Extremely durable, with a high defense rating and minimal risk of breaking.
Offers excellent control, allowing for smooth turns while surfing.
Available relatively early in the game after completing certain quests.
Cons:
It is relatively heavy, which can slow down your movement slightly when surfing.
It is not the fastest shield in terms of gliding speed.
Overall, the Hylian Shield is a great choice for shield surfing, especially if you’re looking for a durable shield with reliable control. However, if speed is your primary concern, you might want to consider other options.
2. Kite Shield
The Kite Shield is a more balanced option for shield surfing in BotW. It offers a mix of durability, speed, and maneuverability, making it a good all-around choice for both beginners and more experienced shield surfers. It is particularly useful when you want a shield that is both strong and versatile without feeling too heavy.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handle, offering good speed on downhill slopes.
Decent durability, allowing for multiple runs without breaking.
Good balance between defense and performance in shield surfing.
Cons:
Not as durable as the Hylian Shield, meaning it might break after a few uses.
It doesn’t offer the same high-level defense as other shields, which could be a downside for combat situations.
If you’re just starting out with shield surfing, the Kite Shield is a great shield to use. It’s especially good for beginners who want to practice their technique while still maintaining some durability.
3. Traveler’s Shield
The Traveler’s Shield is a great beginner-friendly option for shield surfing in Breath of the Wild. It’s easy to obtain early on in the game and has decent durability. While it isn’t the most powerful shield in terms of defense, it’s light and quick, which makes it a good choice for those who want a fast ride.
Pros:
Lightweight, allowing for faster speeds when shield surfing.
Accessible early in the game, making it perfect for beginners.
Affordable and easy to replace when it breaks.
Cons:
Lower durability, meaning it will break faster than some of the other shields on this list.
Lower defense capabilities, which may not be ideal for combat situations.
The Traveler’s Shield is excellent for those new to shield surfing. It gives you the chance to practice and experiment without worrying about a shield breaking too quickly.
4. Knight’s Shield
The Knight’s Shield is another solid option for shield surfing in BotW. It’s heavier than some other shields, but its durability makes up for it. If you want a shield that can take a beating but still provide you with a stable ride down hills, the Knight’s Shield is a great choice.
Pros:
High durability, ensuring it lasts longer than many other shields.
Decent control, especially for more experienced shield surfers.
Reliable for longer runs without breaking.
Cons:
Heavier than other shields, which can slow you down on some slopes.
Requires more stamina to perform quick maneuvers while surfing.
The Knight’s Shield is a great choice for those who prioritize durability over speed. It’s not the fastest option, but it’s one of the most reliable in terms of longevity.
5. Spiked Shield
The Spiked Shield is one of the more unique shields in the game, offering a slightly different experience when shield surfing. It has excellent defense and durability, and its spiked design gives it a cool aesthetic. However, it is somewhat heavier than some of the other options, which could impact your speed.
Pros:
Good defense and durability, making it a reliable option for combat.
Unique look and design, which adds a fun factor to shield surfing.
Cons:
Heavy weight, which can reduce your speed when shield surfing.
The spikes can occasionally make the shield less stable compared to other options.
The Spiked Shield is fun to use for shield surfing, but it may not be the fastest option due to its weight. If you’re looking for something more unique, this could be a good choice, but it’s not ideal for speed-focused surfing.
Choosing the Right Shield for Shield Surfing
When choosing the best shield for shield surfing in BotW, it’s important to consider several factors:
Durability: The more durable the shield, the longer it will last during your shield surfing runs.
Weight: Lighter shields tend to be faster, but they may break more easily. Heavier shields offer more durability but can slow you down.
Speed: Some shields allow for faster surfing than others, which is important if you’re trying to cover more distance.
Availability: Consider how early you can obtain the shield. Some shields are available early on in the game, while others require more advanced quests.
The best shield for shield surfing ultimately depends on your personal playstyle and the specific terrain you are traveling on. If you want to practice smooth, long rides, choose a shield with good balance and speed. If you prioritize durability, opt for shields like the Hylian Shield or Knight’s Shield.
For surfing equipment enthusiasts looking to try out shield surfing, it’s a great way to get a feel for the mechanics of the game while having fun. And for surfing beginners, this mechanic is a great introduction to the world of extreme sports in video games!
Conclusion
Shield surfing in BotW is an exciting and thrilling activity that adds another layer of fun to your journey across Hyrule. While there are many shields to choose from, the best one for shield surfing depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s durability, speed, or control. The Hylian Shield, Kite Shield, and Traveler’s Shield are among the best options, offering a mix of reliability and fun. No matter which shield you choose, be sure to enjoy the ride!