Armor; to Wear, or not to Wear?
Protective armor exists in the Star Wars universe, but only the lightest types see widespread use. Heavier armor is considered to be too expensive, too restrictive, and just not worth the trouble unless it serves an additional function (such as providing environmental protection, as in the case of Imperial Snowtrooper Armor).
Many forms of armor are restricted or even illegal outside of approved military uses. In locations where armor isn't prohibited, the wearer of armor identifies himself as someone who either expects to cause trouble or expects trouble to come his way.
A character's Reflex Defense can be improved with Armor; however a character who wears armor chooses to apply the armor's bonus to Reflex Defense instead of their Heroic Level. If they are not proficient in that armor they also choose to take a penalty on certain Skill Checks. Visit the relevant embedded article for further details.
As a character gains levels, Armor bonuses become less enticing. For example, a 5th-level heroic character has less reason to wear Armor that grants an Armor bonus of +5 or less, unless the armor confers some other useful benefit or the character has the Armored Defense or Improved Armored Defense Talents. Still, some characters enjoy the benefit of having a higher Fortitude Defense and Damage Threshold.
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See the article on Emcumbrance for details regarding Encumbrance by Armor.
- Light Armor: The most common Armors, found anywhere from civilians to experienced hunters.
- Medium Armor: Considered the standard other armors compare themselves to, these Armors are typically used by military troopers, and various militia.
- Heavy Armor: Top of the line armor, primarily used by military specialists, and high-spec mercenaries.