Exploring the fiery region of Eldin inThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildpresents a unique challenge for players. Unlike other harsh environments in Hyrule, the volcanic area near Death Mountain requires specific protection to avoid constant damage from the intense heat. This is where flameproof gear becomes absolutely essential. Without it, Link will take damage simply by existing in the extreme temperatures. Whether you’re heading to Goron City, fighting Fire-Breath Lizalfos, or preparing to face the Divine Beast Vah Rudania, understanding how to obtain and use flameproof gear is key to survival and progression.
What Is Flameproof Gear?
Definition and Purpose
Flameproof gear refers to a specific set of armor pieces that protect Link from burning while he’s in hot environments, particularly around Death Mountain and Goron City. This is different from heat-resistance gear, which is used in hot deserts. Flameproof gear actually prevents Link from catching fire, making it vital for exploring volcanic regions safely.
Set Components
The full flameproof set inBreath of the Wildincludes three armor pieces:
- Flamebreaker Helm
- Flamebreaker Armor
- Flamebreaker Boots
Equipping all three pieces gives you a full flameproof effect, along with a set bonus when upgraded, which enhances your protection against fire-based attacks.
Where to Get Flameproof Gear
Finding Goron City
The flameproof gear is sold in Goron City, which is located in the Eldin region northeast of Hyrule. To reach Goron City without instantly burning, players will need at least some temporary fire resistance. This can be achieved by consuming fireproof elixirs or wearing one piece of flameproof gear in combination with an elixir.
First Piece Free Flamebreaker Armor
Before you even reach Goron City, there’s an opportunity to receive one piece of flameproof gear for free. On the way up Death Mountain, you’ll encounter a Goron named Bladon, who is worried about his brother, Gonguron. After helping them by defeating some Igneo Talus enemies during a side quest, you’ll receive theFlamebreaker Armoras a reward. This single piece is enough to survive long enough to reach Goron City, especially when paired with an elixir.
Purchasing the Rest
Once in Goron City, visit the Ripped and Shredded armor shop. You can purchase the remaining two pieces:
- Flamebreaker Helm 2,000 Rupees
- Flamebreaker Boots 700 Rupees
Make sure to bring plenty of rupees or collect gems like amber, opal, and ruby along the way to sell for quick cash. Mining ores in the region is an excellent method of gathering funds.
Using Flameproof Gear Effectively
Full Set Advantage
Equipping all three pieces of the Flamebreaker set not only gives you complete flameproof protection but also unlocks a special set bonus after upgrading each piece twice at Great Fairy Fountains. The set bonus is calledFireproof, which reduces the amount of damage taken from flame-based enemies and attacks.
Exploring Death Mountain
With the flameproof gear equipped, you can freely explore all areas of Eldin, including Goron City, the mines, and the areas around Divine Beast Vah Rudania. You won’t need to consume fireproof elixirs anymore, making it easier to farm resources, complete quests, and battle without constantly checking your health bar.
Essential for Story Progression
At a certain point in the game’s main quest, you’ll be required to assist Yunobo and calm Divine Beast Vah Rudania. This quest chain takes place entirely in the volcanic zone, and attempting it without flameproof gear is virtually impossible. Make sure to collect and equip the full set before engaging in this portion of the story.
Flameproof Elixirs vs. Armor
Temporary vs. Permanent Protection
Early in the game, or when you’re short on rupees, fireproof elixirs offer temporary protection from fire. These can be crafted using monster parts and ingredients like Fireproof Lizards or Smotherwing Butterflies. However, the protection typically lasts a few minutes, depending on the quality of the elixir.
Advantages of Gear
While elixirs are useful in the short term, the flameproof gear is far more practical in the long run. Not only does it provide indefinite protection, but it also frees up your meal and elixir slots for healing and attack boosts. Once you own the gear, you no longer need to hunt for rare ingredients to craft elixirs, making your journey more efficient and stress-free.
Upgrading the Flamebreaker Set
Great Fairy Fountains
To unlock the set bonus, you must visit at least two Great Fairy Fountains and upgrade each piece of flameproof gear to level 2. Upgrades require specific materials, many of which are found around Death Mountain.
Upgrade Materials
- Fireproof Lizards
- Moblin Guts
- Red Lizalfos Tails
- Goron Spice
Hunting fire-based enemies in Eldin and collecting local fauna will help gather everything needed for upgrades. If you’ve already opened the Akkala, Tabantha, or Faron regions, you may also find relevant materials in those areas.
Style and Function Combined
Appearance of the Set
The Flamebreaker set features a heavy, armor-like aesthetic with glowing red highlights, giving Link a rugged and battle-ready appearance. The helm has a distinct miner’s helmet look, the armor is bulky with fireproof plating, and the boots are reinforced for trekking across molten rock. It’s one of the more distinctive and imposing sets in the game.
Synergy with Fire-Based Weapons
Wearing the Flamebreaker gear complements fire-based weapons like the Flameblade or Boulder Breaker. Since you’ll be spending significant time fighting in lava fields and caves, the gear pairs well with any equipment that matches the fire theme, both visually and tactically.
Flameproof Gear in BOTW
The Flamebreaker set is a critical part of your arsenal inZelda: Breath of the Wild. More than just an accessory, this gear opens up an entire region of the game for exploration, combat, and story progression. Without it, even taking a few steps into Eldin becomes a life-threatening hazard. With it, however, Link becomes a true champion ready to take on the heat of Death Mountain and face the fire-based foes within. Whether you’re collecting it for safety, story completion, or style, flameproof gear is a must-have for any player determined to uncover all the secrets of Hyrule.