Elden Ring: Top Heaviest Armor Sets Ranked
In Elden Ring, armor isn't just about looking good—it's a critical part of your survival strategy. Armor sets in the game come in various weight classes, each offering a unique balance of protection and mobility. Among these, heavy armor sets are the go-to choice for players who prioritize damage negation and resistance over swift movement. However, not all heavy armors are created equal, and just because something is heavier doesn't mean it's necessarily better.
In this guide, we'll explore the heaviest armor sets in Elden Ring, ranking them based on their effectiveness in providing protection while considering the trade-offs in weight and mobility. Whether you're a veteran player or a newcomer, these armors will help you survive the most challenging battles in The Lands Between.
11. Banished Knight Set
Physical Defense: 35.5
Poise: 72
Elden Ring Items: Banished Knight Helm, Banished Knight Armor, Banished Knight Gauntlets, Banished Knight Greaves
The Banished Knight Set is a strong, heavy armor set known for its impressive defensive stats, especially given its relatively moderate weight. It offers high physical damage negation, making it a reliable choice for players who want solid protection without being too weighed down. However, acquiring this set can be a grind, as it requires farming the formidable Banished Knights, who only drop pieces sporadically. Despite this challenge, the set's balance of weight and protection makes it worth the effort.
10. General Radahn Set
Physical Defense: 35.6
Poise: 72
Elden Ring Items: Radahn's Helm, Radahn's Armor, Radahn's Gauntlets, Radahn's Greaves
The General Radahn Set allows players to don the armor of one of Elden Ring's most iconic bosses. With its robust stats and imposing design, this set is ideal for players who need high resistance against Hemorrhage and Frostbite. While it offers slightly better protection than the Banished Knight Set, it is also heavier, meaning you'll need to balance your Elden Ring Runes and stamina investments carefully.
9. Gaius Set
Physical Defense: 30.7
Poise: 75
Elden Ring Items: Gaius Helm, Gaius Armor, Gaius Gauntlets, Gaius Greaves
The Gaius Set is a rewarding armor that requires players to defeat Commander Gaius, an optional boss in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. This set offers good robustness, particularly against Slash and Piercing attacks. Though it's lighter than some other heavy armor sets, its decent protection and poise make it a great option for players willing to put in the effort to obtain it.
8. Tree Sentinel Set
Physical Defense: 35.5
Poise: 82
Elden Ring Items: Tree Sentinel Helm, Tree Sentinel Armor, Tree Sentinel Gauntlets, Tree Sentinel Greaves
The Tree Sentinel Set, recognizable from the formidable early-game enemies who wear it, offers exceptional physical and magical defense. It's a versatile armor that excels in various combat scenarios, making it a reliable choice for players venturing deeper into The Lands Between. To acquire this set, you'll need to destroy three chariots in Auriza Hero's Grave—no small feat, but well worth it for the protection this armor provides.
7. Veteran's Set
Physical Defense: 35.5
Poise: 80
Elden Ring Items: Veteran's Helm, Veteran's Armor, Veteran's Gauntlets, Veteran's Greaves
The Veteran's Set, worn by Commander Niall, is one of the best armor sets in its weight class. It features high poise, allowing you to withstand heavy hits without being staggered. While it shares some visual similarities with the Banished Knight Set, the Veteran's Set surpasses it in almost every stat category, making it a top choice for players who need to stay on their feet in the heat of battle.
6. Lionel's Set
Physical Defense: 33.5
Poise: 86
Elden Ring Items: Lionel's Helm, Lionel's Armor, Lionel's Gauntlets, Lionel's Greaves
Lionel's Set may not win any beauty contests, but it offers excellent protection, especially for melee-focused characters. Its high poise and robustness make it ideal for players who need to endure enemy attacks while dealing heavy damage. Along with decent magic resistance, this set is perfect for those looking for a sturdy and reliable armor option.
5. Omen Set
Physical Defense: 34.9
Poise: 91
Elden Ring Items: Omen Helm, Omen Armor, Omen Gauntlets, Omen Greaves
The Omen Set, worn by the notorious Dung Eater, is as grotesque as it is effective. Despite its unappealing appearance, this armor offers strong defensive stats, particularly in poise and vitality. It also boosts the damage of Omen Bairn and Regal Omen Bairn by 5% each, making it a unique choice for players who can stomach its unsightly design.
4. Solitude Set
Physical Defense: 35.6
Poise: 96
Elden Ring Items: Solitude Helm, Solitude Armor, Solitude Gauntlets, Solitude Greaves
A new addition from the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, the Solitude Set is a dark paladin's dream. It offers high focus resistance, making it especially effective against sleep and madness attacks. This armor is both fashionable and functional, providing exceptional protection while looking intimidating.
3. Fire Prelate Set
Physical Defense: 36.5
Poise: 96
Elden Ring Items: Fire Prelate Helm, Fire Prelate Armor, Fire Prelate Gauntlets, Fire Prelate Greaves
The Fire Prelate Set is a heavyweight champion in terms of fire resistance. Although it's not the most aesthetically pleasing armor, its stats make it invaluable for players who need extra protection in fiery environments. Its high poise and solid defense against both physical and magical attacks make it a reliable choice for tough encounters.
2. Verdigris Armor Set
Physical Defense: 38.5
Poise: 100
Elden Ring Items: Verdigris Helm, Verdigris Armor, Verdigris Gauntlets, Verdigris Greaves
Another powerhouse from the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, the Verdigris Armor Set is a new favorite among heavy armor enthusiasts. With 100 poise and excellent defensive stats, this set is particularly effective against slash attacks. It also has a higher immunity and robustness than the Bull Goat Set, making it a top-tier option for players who can manage its weight.
1. Bull Goat Set
Physical Defense: 38.5
Poise: 99.99
Elden Ring Items: Bull Goat Helm, Bull Goat Armor, Bull Goat Gauntlets, Bull Goat Greaves
Topping our list is the Bull Goat Set, the heaviest and most protective armor in Elden Ring. With unmatched physical defense and poise, this set allows players to absorb even the mightiest of blows without flinching. While its extreme weight limits mobility, the Bull Goat Set is unparalleled in providing the highest level of protection, making it a must-have for those who prioritize defense above all else.
In conclusion, heavy armor sets in Elden Ring offer a range of benefits, from increased poise to superior damage negation. By investing your Elden Ring Runes wisely and selecting the right armor for your playstyle, you can ensure that you're well-prepared for any challenge The Lands Between throws your way.