Armor provides defense and can significantly impact your Evasion stat. Shields are crucial for boosting Evasion, especially for front-row characters. Helmets, Armor (body armor), and Gauntlets (gloves) provide defense. However, heavier armor (like Plate Armor) can negatively impact a character's magic effectiveness and Evasion. Mages should generally wear lighter armor (Clothes, Robes) to avoid penalties to their Intelligence and Spirit. Physical attackers can benefit from heavier armor, but always balance defense with Evasion. The Ribbon accessory, found later in the game, is an invaluable piece of equipment that grants immunity to most status effects and should be prioritized for your main characters.
