What is the best armor set for surviving in the Plains biome?

The Plains biome in Valheim is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, home to deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. To survive here, you need the best armor set available, which is the Padded Armor. This armor provides the highest defense rating in the game and is essential for mitigating damage from the biome''s aggressive foes. Crafting the Padded Armor requires materials from the Plains biome itself, making it a late-game goal for players.\n\nTo craft the Padded Armor set, you will need Iron, Linen Thread, and Black Metal. Iron is obtained from Swamp Crypts, while Linen Thread is crafted from Flax, a plant found in the Plains biome. Black Metal is dropped by Fulings, the goblin-like enemies in the Plains. Start by gathering Flax from Fuling villages and planting it in your base to farm Linen Thread. Defeat Fulings to collect Black Metal, and mine Iron in the Swamp biome to prepare for crafting.\n\nThe Padded Armor set consists of a helmet, chestplate, and leggings, providing a total of 96 armor when fully upgraded. This high defense is crucial for surviving hits from Fuling Berserkers and Deathsquitos. Additionally, the armor''s weight is manageable, allowing you to maintain decent mobility while exploring the Plains. Pair this armor with a strong shield, such as the Black Metal Shield, to block incoming attacks effectively.\n\nSurviving in the Plains biome also requires careful preparation beyond armor. Bring healing meads, stamina meads, and poison resistance meads to counter the various threats. Deathsquitos, for example, deal massive damage but have low health, so a well-timed arrow or melee attack can take them down quickly. Fulings often attack in groups, so use terrain to your advantage and avoid being overwhelmed. Lox are slow but powerful, so kite them with ranged weapons or use a spear for hit-and-run tactics.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to progress through the game''s biomes in order. The Plains biome is intended for late-game exploration, so ensure you have fully upgraded gear from previous biomes, such as the Wolf Armor from the Mountains, before venturing into the Plains. Experienced Vikings should focus on farming Flax and Black Metal efficiently to craft the Padded Armor as quickly as possible.\n\nIn summary, the Padded Armor set is the best choice for surviving in the Plains biome due to its high defense and manageable weight. Crafting it requires Iron, Linen Thread, and Black Metal, which can be obtained by farming Flax, defeating Fulings, and mining in the Swamp biome. Combine this armor with strong shields, healing items, and strategic combat tactics to thrive in the Plains. Always prepare thoroughly before entering this dangerous biome, and prioritize upgrading your gear to maximize your chances of survival.