Shield surfing is back in Tears of the Kingdom. And with TOTK's new features, it's more fun than ever. By utilizing his shield as a makeshift surfboard, Link can traverse great distances, hop on rails, and more all by holding out your shield (ZL), jumping (X), and riding it after hitting (A) -- but now you can use Fuse to make your shield surfboard stronger and even add wheels to Shield Skate!

While the overall mechanic remains relatively the same, you can use shield surfing in new and inventive ways in conjunction with Link's right arm abilities in TOTK. This guide will help you figure out how shield surfing works, how it has changed, and a primer for just how creative you can get with Link's brand new powers.

Use the links below to jump to a specific section on this page:

• How to Shield Surf in TOTK
• How to Skate in TOTK

How to Shield Surf in TOTK

To shield surf in Tears of the Kingdom, you must have a shield equipped and ideally near either a downward slope or a minecart railing. With a running start, hold out your shield (ZL), jump (X), and ride (A).

The same method works even when falling from the sky; ensure you are free-falling and not diving down.

• Press attack (Y) to make Link spin/do tricks while surfing.
• Once you've gained momentum, Link can also use his bow. This mechanic is handy for combat in the Gerudo Desert.

Just like in Breath of the Wild, shield surfing will constantly diminish your shield's durability—this system only applies when surfing on rocky terrains and not on snow or sand.

• Link will tumble and take minor damage if the shield breaks while shield surfing.

How to Skate in TOTK

With Link's new Fuse ability, you can merge different materials and objects into Link's weapon and shield. One of the ways this is great for non-combat purposes is fusing a minecart with Link's shield to create a skateboard.

Link can travel faster on railings and flat terrains with a minecart-fused shield. Though useful, the durability of your fused shield will decrease more quickly than before. Note that the most durable shield is the Hylian Shield.

Alternatives to Surfing

Keeping Link's Fuse ability in mind can be useful for other shield-surfing applications too. Fusing explosives to a shield is helpful in a fight, but it can be even more useful when you initiate shield surfing as the explosion underneath you propels you into the sky. You can achieve this same lift by Fusing a Zonai Spring to the front as well. Get creative and try different things out on your shield!