This page is about the features that do or do not work in Wild Shape. For details on the stats and effects of Wild Shape, see Wild Shape or Combat Wild Shape.
Most equipment, many feats, and some class passives do not work while in Wild Shape. This list clarifies what works and what does not work. Originally compiled from Reddit.[1]
It is neither possible to cast spells while in Wild Shape nor take any action outside of those available while in Wild Shape. Such actions are only mentioned in this list if their effects persist after transforming.
Equipped items are merged into the beast form and most of them do not have any effect until reverting back. If any equipment is not listed here then it probably does not work in Wild Shape.
As a general rule, Wild Shape replaces a character's Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution with those of the creature. This list notes the exceptions when permanent bonuses or feats actually change those ability scores while in Wild Shape.
Due to the way they are coded, many reactions do not trigger in Wild Shape. However, using Disguise Self or Disguise Kit before transforming can cause some of these reactions to work.
This list is NOT meant to imply that all these features should work with Wild Shape - many of them are not supposed to work due to the rules of 5th Edition D&D.
This list is far from complete. Please add any missing information noticed.
Boots of Striding - the +1 Athletics bonus works and the Prone immunity persists through Wild Shape; somehow the Prone immunity continues even if concentration is broken and only ends once the Wild Shape does
Combat Inspiration - cannot cast this while transformed but allies can cast it on you and it works if Disguise Self is used before transforming. Valiant Damage only works with Wild Shapes which use weapons
War Priest - only works by using the "Attack" button until getting an option to use the War Priest Charge; does NOT work if trying to use the bonus action attack first by selecting the War Priest Charge button
Shapeshifter Hat - the +1 Nature bonus disappears in Wild Shape and the extra Wild Shape charge disappears if taking a short rest while in one of the Myrmidon forms; only dismissing the Myrmidon form before the short rest preserves the charge
Bugged equipment. Saving and reloading the save while in Wild Shape causes certain equipment auras to reappear as if the character was not transformed. This applies to the following auras:
Dual Wielder - the +1 AC persists if dual-wielding before transforming into an unarmed wild shape form; however, if transforming into an armed myrmidon form, the +1 AC does not apply
Durable - gives the additional +1 CON and full heal but the increased CON does not change the HP of wild shape forms
Tavern Brawler - the bonus to unarmed attack and damage rolls works properly; the additional +1 STR or CON does not apply in Wild Shape; requires a Wild Shape with unarmed attacks (i.e. everything except three of the Myrmidons)
It is not possible to cast Spells while in Wild Shape.
This includes spells which cost a reaction (e.g. Shield or Counterspell) or spells that are triggered by an action (e.g. Divine Smite) even if Disguise Self is used before transforming.
