Dash and Sprint mechanics are essential in any platformer, and Hollow Knight: Silksong is no exception. Unlike many games, you unlock these movements through a special ability called Swift Step. This skill allows you to dodge attacks quickly and navigate tricky gaps, making it a crucial early upgrade for your journey. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to unlock the Swift Step ability and show you how to use Dash and Sprint effectively.
Where to Find the Swift Step Location in Hollow Knight: Silksong
To master Dash and Sprint in Silksong, you first need to unlock Swift Step. You can find this ability in the Deep Docks, one of the initial major areas following The Marrow. Your goal is to reach the Swift Step Idol, which is hidden in the upper regions of Deep Docks.
How to Unlock Dash and Sprint in Hollow Knight: Silksong
Given that Hollow Knight: Silksong offers over 50 hours of gameplay, acquiring Swift Step early is vital. Once you’re ready, follow these straightforward steps to unlock this skill:
1. Enter the Deep Docks
Upon reaching the Deep Docks, locate an elevator that will take you to a shrine functioning as a Rest Bench. Activate this bench to save your progress before heading back down and moving to the right.
Keep your ears open for Shakra, the Map Merchant. If you wish to simplify your navigation, you can purchase a map for 50 Rosaries. After that, begin climbing the platforms above.

2. Cross the Lava
Continue climbing and moving right, avoiding enemies until you reach a solitary platform surrounded by lava. It may look dangerous, but you can walk across it safely—just be cautious of falling rocks. Avoid engaging in fights while on the lava platform.

3. Break the Orange Node
After crossing the lava, continue climbing until you see an orange node on the ceiling. Strike it, then quickly retreat to avoid the resulting explosion. This will unveil a hidden passage you can explore.

4. Reach the Idol
Navigate through the newly opened path and continue moving left. You’ll encounter a necessary ant sub-boss fight, but they are manageable with some practice. Keep proceeding left until you find the Swift Step Idol. Interact with this idol using the D-Pad up or down to unlock Dash and Sprint in Hollow Knight: Silksong.

How to Use Dash and Sprint in Hollow Knight: Silksong
Once you’ve unlocked the Swift Step skill, executing Dash and Sprint becomes easy. To dash in a specific direction, simply hold the direction button and press the Sprint button (R2 on PS5, RT on Xbox, C on PC). For sprinting, just hold the same button longer.
Have you already unlocked Swift Step? Where are you in the game? Let us know in the comments!
What is the Swift Step ability in Hollow Knight: Silksong? The Swift Step ability allows players to dodge attacks and navigate gaps more quickly, making it an essential skill for survival.
How can you unlock Dash and Sprint in Hollow Knight: Silksong? To unlock Dash and Sprint, players must find and interact with the Swift Step Idol located in the Deep Docks area.
What are the controls for Dash and Sprint in Hollow Knight: Silksong? Players can perform a dash by holding the direction button and pressing the Sprint button. Sprinting requires holding the Sprint button for a longer duration.
What benefits does using Dash and Sprint provide in Hollow Knight: Silksong? Utilizing Dash and Sprint allows players to evade enemy attacks and navigate through challenging platforming sections, greatly enhancing gameplay mobility.
The Swift Step ability is a game-changer in your Hollow Knight: Silksong adventure. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll unlock this essential skill in no time. If you’re eager to explore more tips and tricks, check out more content at Moyens I/O!