Shield surfing in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) is one of the coolest and most fun mechanics in the game. It allows you to ride down slopes using your shield as a snowboard, adding a unique and thrilling way to travel across Hyrule. In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through everything you need to know to start shield surfing, from the basics to the advanced techniques, and how to make the most of it.
What is Shield Surfing?
Shield surfing is a way to travel downhill quickly in Breath of the Wild. It involves using a shield as a surfboard, gliding down hills or slopes to cover large distances in a shorter amount of time. It’s not just practical for getting around, but it’s also a fun and exciting feature that makes traveling through Hyrule feel even more dynamic.
Getting the Right Shield
Before you start shield surfing, you need to have the right shield. Not all shields can be used for shield surfing, so here’s what you need to look out for:
Wooden Shields: Wooden shields are not suitable for shield surfing. They can catch fire if you ride on a hot surface, which can cause problems.
Metal Shields: Metal shields are also not recommended because they can be damaged when sliding on the ground or can cause you to take damage if you land improperly.
Small Shields: While small shields might work, they are not the best option for shield surfing since they offer little stability.
Best Option: The Traveler’s Shield and Knight’s Shield are some of the most popular options for shield surfing. They are durable and perform well when used on slopes.
If you don’t have the right shield, head to a nearby shop or campsite to find one that fits. Shields that are meant for combat usually work best, and the sturdier the shield, the better the surfing experience will be.
How to Start Shield Surfing
Once you’ve got the right shield, it’s time to start shield surfing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Find a Sloped Area
Shield surfing only works on sloped terrain. Look for hills or mountainsides that are not too steep but have a noticeable downward angle. The terrain must have a gradual slope to give you a good, safe ride. You’ll want to avoid cliffs that are too steep because you might end up taking damage from the fall.
2. Equip Your Shield
To equip your shield, press the appropriate button on your controller to open the inventory. From there, select the shield you want to use. Once equipped, press the corresponding button to ready the shield.
3. Start the Shield Surfing Process
To begin the surfing, you need to start by jumping off the edge of the slope. You’ll press the jump button (X on the Switch) and immediately press the shield button (L on the Switch) as you approach the slope. If done correctly, Link will jump onto the shield, and the surfing motion will begin.
4. Control Your Direction
While surfing, you can control Link’s movement with the left thumbstick. You can steer left or right, depending on where you want to go. The more you tilt the stick in the direction you want to go, the faster you’ll travel in that direction.
If you’re looking to get some air, use the jump button (X) again while shield surfing. This will cause Link to do a little jump or flip, which can be fun when you need to avoid obstacles or land in a specific area.
5. Shield Durability
While shield surfing is a fun mechanic, keep in mind that your shield can take damage from the process. If you hit obstacles, rocks, or take a sharp turn too quickly, your shield may break over time. Always keep an eye on the durability of your shield and make sure to carry extra shields if you plan on doing a lot of surfing.
6. Get Off the Shield
To stop shield surfing, all you need to do is press the shield button (L) again. Link will dismount from the shield and land on the ground safely. Alternatively, you can crash into an obstacle, and Link will automatically stop and jump off the shield.
Best Locations for Shield Surfing
Now that you know how to start shield surfing, it’s important to know where the best places are for this activity. Here are some of the top locations in Hyrule where you can have a blast while shield surfing:
1. Hebra Peak
Hebra Peak is one of the best places for shield surfing due to its steep, snow-covered slopes. The cold environment adds a layer of difficulty, so be sure to wear warm clothing. The snow also provides a smoother surface for your shield to glide on.
2. Gerudo Highlands
The Gerudo Highlands offers a variety of slopes and hills that are perfect for shield surfing. The dry, desert terrain means there’s less snow, but the smoothness of the ground still makes for a great ride. The only downside is the hot weather, so you might need to be cautious of your health as you surf through this area.
3. The Faron Region
Faron’s lush and hilly terrain is another great location for shield surfing. It has plenty of moderate slopes and breathtaking views that will make your experience even more enjoyable. It’s a good idea to bring some stamina-restoring food with you to maintain your speed on the ride.
4. The Hylian Ridge
The Hylian Ridge has some fun hills and moderate slopes that make for perfect shield surfing opportunities. This area is also close to many important locations, such as Hyrule Castle, so you can explore other landmarks while enjoying your shield surfing experience.
5. The Lost Woods
Though it may be a bit tricky to navigate, the Lost Woods offers plenty of hilly terrain for shield surfing. The environment here provides an adventure-like atmosphere, and you can also explore the various features of the woods as you surf.
Advanced Shield Surfing Tips
Once you’ve gotten the hang of shield surfing, there are a few advanced tips that can help you take your skills to the next level:
1. Mastering Speed
To maximize your speed, try to keep a steady, straight line while surfing down slopes. This minimizes drag and increases your momentum. The longer you stay on a smooth slope without hitting rocks or other obstacles, the faster you’ll go.
2. Jumping Off the Shield
For added flair and to avoid obstacles, practice jumping off your shield mid-ride. This technique can be especially useful when you want to jump over rocks, boulders, or other obstacles without slowing down too much.
3. Shield Durability Management
Keep an eye on your shield’s durability. Some shields are better suited for extended shield surfing, such as the Traveler’s Shield, which can withstand more use. If your shield starts to break, quickly switch to another one to avoid falling.
4. Chain Shield Surfing
If you’re traveling across a larger area, you can chain shield surfing by jumping from one slope to the next. Keep your speed up and try to maintain your direction as you move through different hills and valleys. This will allow you to cover larger distances in a shorter amount of time.
Conclusion
Shield surfing in Breath of the Wild is a fun and engaging way to traverse the vast open world of Hyrule. With the right shield and a bit of practice, you can master this exciting mechanic and use it to enhance your adventure. Whether you’re speeding down snowy peaks or jumping over obstacles in the Lost Woods, shield surfing adds an extra layer of fun to the game. Keep exploring, practicing, and enjoying your ride across Hyrule!