Armor in Skyrim is essential for reducing damage from attacks and can be classified into two main categories based on their governing skills: Heavy Armor and Light Armor. Each type of armor provides a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. This analysis covers the detailed mechanics of armor in Skyrim, its classification, rating, the concept of the armor cap, and the comparison to determine the best armor options.
Armor Components and Types
Armor in Skyrim consists of multiple pieces that can be equipped separately:
- Armor: Covers legs, chest, and shoulders
- Boots: Covers feet and ankles
- Gauntlets: Covers hands up to the elbow
- Helmet: Covers head
- Shield: Used for protection and blocking
Additionally, specific amulets such as the Locket of Saint Jiub and the Amulet of Articulation provide armor bonuses. Notably, the Divine Crusader Creation adds an additional armor type, the Fastened Shield of the Crusader, a shoulder piece.
Armor Materials
Armor in Skyrim is made from various materials, each determining the quality and protection level. Higher quality materials generally provide better defense but are heavier. Finding higher quality armor depends on the character’s level and other factors like potential early appearances in loot. The ability to create armor pieces relies on the Smithing skill and the relevant perks unlocked.
Light Armor by Material
Light Armor provides moderate protection and is lighter, allowing for more mobility. Here are some common Light Armor materials:
- Forsworn: Cannot be forged, requires Leather for tempering.
- Fur: Cannot be forged, requires Leather for tempering.
- Hide: No perk required, tempered with Leather.
- Elven: Requires Elven Smithing perk, tempered with Refined Moonstone.
- Glass: Requires Glass Smithing perk, tempered with Refined Malachite.
- Dragonscale: Requires Dragon Armor perk, tempered with Dragon Scales.
Heavy Armor by Material
Heavy Armor provides superior protection but is heavier, which can reduce mobility. Common Heavy Armor materials include:
- Iron: No perk required, tempered with Iron Ingot.
- Dwarven: Requires Dwarven Smithing perk, tempered with Dwarven Metal Ingot.
- Orcish: Requires Orcish Smithing perk, tempered with Orichalcum Ingot.
- Ebony: Requires Ebony Smithing perk, tempered with Ebony Ingot.
- Dragonplate: Requires Dragon Armor perk, tempered with Dragon Scales or Bones.
- Daedric: Requires Daedric Smithing perk, tempered with Ebony Ingot.
Armor Rating
The armor rating determines the amount of physical damage reduced by the equipped armor. The following formula influences the final armor rating:
Armor Rating Formula:
CEILING[ (base armor rating + item quality) × (1 + 0.4 × (skill + skill effect)/100) ] × (1 + unison perk) × (1 + Matching Set) × (1 + armor perk)
Each armor piece adds a hidden damage reduction, providing a baseline protection even at lower ratings. The displayed armor rating includes the summed values of all equipped items and bonuses from skills and perks.
Armor Cap
Regardless of the displayed armor rating, Skyrim enforces an 80% physical damage reduction cap. Achieving this cap ensures optimal defense:
- Without a Shield: Reach 567 displayed armor rating.
- With a Shield: Reach 542 displayed armor rating.
This cap can be achieved by various means, including high skill levels, Smithing enhancements, and enchantments, often without needing advanced crafting perks.
Best Armor Consideration
The ‘best’ armor depends on the balance between defense, weight, and the character’s skills. Here are general considerations:
- Heavy Armor: For maximum defense, Daedric armor is optimal, but Dragonplate armor provides a good balance with slightly less weight.
- Light Armor: Dragonscale armor offers the highest base rating for Light Armor users, benefiting from mobility and adequate protection.
Ultimately, armor in Skyrim is highly customizable, allowing players to tailor their gear to suit their playstyle and combat preferences, ensuring a strategic balance between protection and agility.
