If you want to become a true powerhouse in the Zone, you’ll need the best exoskeletons and exosuits. In S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, the most powerful gear is well-hidden and only becomes available in the later stages of the game—once you reach Pripyat and the areas around Yanov.

In this guide, we’ll explain in detail where to find the five best exoskeletons in the game and how to solve the main problem with heavy armor—the inability to run.

Important: How do you unlock sprinting in an exoskeleton? By default, most heavy suits block the ability to run. To fix this, you need to find a special modification (mod). One such mod is hidden in a weapons locker near the Yanov Station. Once you find it, take the armor to the mechanic in Yanov, and he will unlock sprinting for you.

1. Diamond Exoskeleton

Many players consider this particular suit to be the best in the game based on its overall stats. Technically, it is not unique (one-of-a-kind), as there are at least two spawn points for it in the game.

  • Location 1 (Yanov): Located on the roof of the ecological bunker south of Yanov Station.
  • Note: You won’t be able to get there until you start the main story mission “Boundary,” which sends you to Pripyat. To retrieve the armor, simply climb the ladder to the bunker’s roof.
  • Location 2 (Pripyat): The second Diamond Exosuit can be found on the grounds of the kindergarten in Pripyat.

2.Operator Exoskeleton

A great option for heavy armor that you can pick up on your way to the capital.

  • Where to find it: Located at the fluoridation station between Yanov and Pripyat.
  • How to get it: Go to the station building, climb up the red pipe, and then jump onto the second floor of the building, where the suit is located.

3. Ruby Exosuit

This suit is literally right at your main base in Pripyat, but you won’t be able to get it without some ingenuity and explosives.

  • Where to find it: Pripyat, Palace of Culture building. The costume is hidden in a locked room one floor above the sports court.
  • How to get it (Puzzle): The door to the room is securely locked from the inside. You need to go outside, grab an RPG or a grenade, and shoot/throw it at the window of the desired room from the outside. The explosion will blow the door open. After that, go back inside the building, head up to the sports field, and grab your “Rubin.”

4. The Brummbar Exoskeleton

Another variation of powerful armor, hidden in the very heart of the dead city.

  • Where to find it: Pripyat, “White House” location. This building is located directly across the street from the Palace of Culture.
  • How to get it: Enter the building and go up to the top floors; the exoskeleton will be waiting for you there.

5. Liberty Exoskeleton

Top-tier fractional armor that’s perfect for fans of the “Freedom” faction and explorers of Pripyat.

  • Where to find it: Pripyat, the bookstore building.
  • How to get it: Just go to the bookstore and head up to the second floor. The armor is out in the open.