That question seems to be floating around more and more lately, as the next wave of people are hitting 80, or guilds are getting the rest of their members to 80, or maybe you’re like us and just wanted to wait until the holidays passed to start raiding. There are a lot of factors to take into account, but based on experience in various groups (both PUG and guild), this guide should provide you with a solid baseline from which to begin.

Disclaimer on numbers: These are estimates, not mathematically proven numbers. You may have 1150 spellpower and 800 or so spirit. Numbers are never a definite measurement, because the skill and gear levels of the rest of the raid come into play to actually determine success. Your skill will dictate whether you need higher stats in an area or not as well.

Minimums:

1200 Spellpower
13k Mana
200 Mp5 (preferably by stacking Spirit)
650-675 Spirit

Note that I consider these the absolute minimums, and I really only recommend this level if you are running with two primary healers and one backup healer. The assumption is that all members of the raid are somewhere around the same gear level.

Recommended:

1350-1400 Spellpower
15k Mana
215-220 Mp5
725+ Spirit

More than Adequate (and fine for starting heroic Naxx):

1500+ Spellpower
15k+ Mana
850+ Spirit

Note that on the last I do not even bother listing Mp5. You’ll be where you should be if you get your spirit high enough, and spirit is much more beneficial a stat than Mp5 for Druids.

For reference, I started Wrath pretty close to those minimums (combination of T4 and badge gear had me sitting quite well at 70). I’ve seen many people comment on continuing to use that gear throughout Northrend and starting heroics/raids in the same gear. Personally, I do not advise doing so even though it is definitely doable. I found it much easier to replace some items than to stay in the same gear, especially with the larger bonuses to Intelligence and Spirit.

So, how do you gear up?

Simple (and look at the gear list I’ve already posted for ideas). Run heroics and dungeons. Some very nice pieces drop in both (yes, the regular level 80 dungeons also have good gear, you don’t have to skip them). There are some very nice crafted items as well.

Alright, that’s great, but am I ready?

If you’re still asking yourself that question, no. If you still wonder whether you are ready, even after reading the information provided all over the place, no. Go run some heroics, practice your skills. When you feel comfortable healing those go to Naxx.