Armor provides crucial damage reduction and comes in two main categories: Light Armor and Heavy Armor. Light Armor (e.g., Leather, Chainmail, Elven) offers less protection but allows for greater mobility and less encumbrance, making it ideal for stealth and agile characters. Heavy Armor (e.g., Iron, Steel, Daedric) provides superior protection but is heavier and can hinder stealth, making it suitable for warriors and tanks. Both armor types scale with their respective skills, increasing their effectiveness and reducing their weight penalty.
Shields can be used with one-handed weapons to further increase your defense, especially when blocking. Like weapons, armor can be enchanted with various magical effects, such as Fortify Health, Resist Magic, Chameleon, or Feather (to increase carrying capacity). Unique armor sets often have powerful, synergistic enchantments. Always keep your armor repaired using Repair Hammers or by visiting an Armorer to maintain maximum protection. Choosing the right armor type and enchantments is vital for survival in Cyrodiil.