Of all the armor categories, heavy armor offers the best protection. These suits of armor cover the entire body and are designed to stop a wide range of attacks. Only proficient warriors can manage their weight and bulk.
Heavy armor doesn't let you add your
Dexterity modifier to your
Armor Class -- this also applies to any Dexterity
Ability Checks and
saving throws. However, it doesn't penalize you if your Dexterity modifier is negative.
Heavier armor interferes with the wearer's ability to move quickly,
stealthily, and freely. If the Armor table below shows "Str 13" or "Str 15" in the Strength column for an armor type, the armor reduces the wearer's speed by 10 feet unless the wearer has a
Strength score equal to or higher than the listed score.
Ring Mail. This armor is hardened
Leather armor with heavy rings sewn into it. The rings help reinforce the armor against blows from swords and axes. Ring mail is inferior to
chain mail, and it's usually worn only by those who can't afford better armor.
Chain mail. Made of interlocking metal rings, chain mail includes a layer of quilted fabric worn underneath the mail to prevent chafing and to cushion the impact of blows. The suit includes gauntlets.
Splint mail. This armor is made of narrow vertical strips of metal riveted to a backing of
Leather armor that is worn over
cloth padding. Flexible
chain mail protects the joints.
Plate mail. Plate consists of shaped, interlocking metal plates to cover the entire body. A suit of plate includes gauntlets, heavy leather boots, a visored helmet, and thick layers of padding underneath the armor. Buckles and straps distribute the weight over the body.
Heavy Armor
| Heavy Armor | Cost | Armor Class (AC) | Strength | Stealth | Weight |
|---|
| Ring mail | 30 gp | 14 | - | Disadvantage | 40 lb. |
| Chain mail | 75 gp | 16 | Str 13 | Disadvantage | 55 lb. |
| Splint | 200 gp | 17 | Str 15 | Disadvantage | 60 lb. |
| Plate | 1,500 gp | 18 | Str 15 | Disadvantage | 65 lb. |
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