This article is part of a directory: Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Guides (Tips, Shrines, Weapons, & More)

Link’s iconic Champion’s Armor returns in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom as the Champion’s Leathers: a straightforward piece of armor with an impressive defense stat and a unique new ability. Link is often seen wearing this modified version of his iconic blue Champion’s Tunic from Breath of the Wild in promotional material, and luckily for players, it’s a fantastic armor piece in-game as well.

The Champion’s Leathers appear in-game as a single armor piece that gives Link 5 Defense when equipped: a solid stat boost for early-game exploration but less useful for late-game boss battles. However, its stats stack exceptionally well, providing Link with 32 Defense when upgraded four times, putting it on par with some of Zelda: TOTK’s best armor sets. On top of that, equipping the Champion's Leathers also gives Link a powerful new Master Sword ability.

The Legend Of Zelda Tears Of The Kingdom Link Gliding Down To Hyrule Castle 1F Entrance

Players will need to head to Hyrule Castle to claim the Champion’s Leathers. This might seem like an arduous journey, but Hyrule Castle is actually accessible from the very beginning of the game. The easiest way to get there is to use the Skyview Tower at Lookout Landing, the very first settlement Link visits. Players should be able to glide right to the castle entrance with a few stamina upgrades or stamina-restoring food.

Players should be able to spot the landing area easily, as it has a large Gloom patch directly below it and two waterfalls just off to the right. From there, head straight inside the castle and into the Hyrule Castle Sanctum.

Despite the Castle’s intimidating atmosphere and appearance, there aren’t actually any monsters to fight in this area.

The Legend Of Zelda Tears Of The Kingdom Link Lighting Braziers Near Throne In Hyrule Castle Sanctum-1

Head up the stairs to the throne, and light both braziers.

The Legend Of Zelda Tears Of The Kingdom Link Looking At Champion's Leather Secret Compartment Behind Throne In Hyrule Castle Sanctum

This will cause the statue behind the throne to move, revealing a small compartment with a chest. Inside, players will find the Champion’s Leathers.

Players can also visit the Hyrule Castle Docks to claim Link’s iconic Hylian Shield in Zelda: TOTK.

How To Upgrade The Champion’s Leathers And Use The New Master Sword Ability

The Legend Of Zelda Tears Of The Kingdom Link Speaking With Great Fairy Kaysa To Upgrade Champion's Leathers

To upgrade the Champion’s Leathers, Link will need to find a Great Fairy Fountain and exchange materials for upgrades. Upgrading the Champion’s Leathers can be tricky, as players will require different resources to be harvested from the Light Dragon, including Light Dragon Fangs, Horns, Scales, and Talons. Getting on Zelda: TOTK's Light Dragon in Tears of the Kingdom isn’t easy, but there’s nothing to stop players from staying on the Dragon and harvesting everything they need in one go.

The Legend Of Zelda Tears Of The Kingdom Link Attacking Carok Bridge Hinox With Ranged Master Sword Attack From Champion's Leathers

When equipped, the Champion's Leathers also unlock a unique ranged ability for the Master Sword. Unlike other weapons, Link can't actually throw the Master Sword by holding down the R button. However, while wearing the Champion's Leathers, players can hold down and release the R button to unleash a ranged sword cut that's perfect as a surprise attack.

Thanks to this ability and a strong defense rating, the Champion's Leathers are an excellent choice for keeping Link safe on his travels in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.