Heavy Armor sets in Dark Souls 3 are usually high in physical attack absorption and weigh a lot.
Key Takeaways
- Highlighted armor sets include Gundyr’s, Dragonslayer, Havel’s, Black Iron, Iron Dragonslayer, and Catarina, each offering unique features and aesthetics to cater to different playstyles.
- The heavy armor sets not only provide protection but also add depth and character to the gaming experience, choosing armor is more than just a matter of statistics.
Waleed is a Dark Souls fan having spent 800+ hours in the game. You can trust his insights on any Dark Souls related guides!
Best Heavy Armors Comparison
Here is a comparison table of my best Heavy Armor sets in Dark Souls 3. Each stat can be sorted to view the highest and lowest values, which has been done for your convenience:
No. Armor Best for Armor Type Physical Resistance Regular Defense Strike Defense Slash Defense Thrust Defense Magic Defense Fire Defense Lightning Defense Dark Defense Bleed Resistance Poison Resistance Frost Resistance Curse Resistance Poise Icon Durability Icon weight
1 Gundyr’s set Best Heavy Armor Set for Visual Appeal Chest Armor 16.9 0.0 14.1 19.7 16.2 13.2 13.7 13.0 13.2 86.0 6.02 62.0 62.0 24.6 470.0 17.2
2 Dragonslayer Set Best Heavy Armor Set for Balanced Defense. Chest Armor 0.0 0.0 15.6 12.7 17.0 17.0 12.9 13.8 13.8 10.7 64 40.0 43 36 13.8 19.1
3 Havel’s Set Best Heavy Armor Set with Max Poise. Chest Armor 0.0 0.0 92.0 78.2 105.8 92.0 54.0 49.0 0.0 45.0 11.0 0.0 22.0 47.0 0.0 19.5
4 Black Iron Set Best Heavy Armor Set for Visual Dominance. Chest Armor 27.0 0.0 64.6 78.2 68.0 30.0 51.0 21.0 0.0 43.0 25.0 0.0 13.0 31.0 0.0 15..6
5 Iron Dragonslayer Set Best Heavy Armor Set for Max Defense. Chest Armor 0.0 0.0 15.7 11.6 16.5 17.2 9.9 11.6 0.0 13.8 13.2 0.0 60.0 29.0 14.8 20.1
6 Catarina Set Heaviest Armor Set. Chest Armor 0.0 57.0 56.4 65.5 57.0 31.0 37.0 19.0 0.0 34.0 24.0 0.0 0.0 21.0 0.0 11.7
Armor Sets Comparison Table.
1. Gundyr’s set
Best Heavy Armor Set for Visual Appeal
Why did I Choose Gundyr’s set?
I chose Gundyr’s set for its exceptional balance between visual appeal and in-game performance. The armor provides substantial protection and adds a menacing look to the character, making it a standout choice.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | 5.9 | 16.9 | 4.4 | 9.0 |
| Strike Defense | 4.8 | 14.1 | 3.6 | 7.5 |
| Slash Defense | 7.0 | 19.7 | 5.1 | 10.7 |
| Thrust Defense | 5.6 | 16.2 | 4.1 | 8.6 |
| Magic Defense | 4.4 | 13.2 | 3.4 | 7.1 |
| Fire Defense | 4.6 | 13.7 | 3.5 | 7.4 |
| Lightning Defense | 4.4 | 13..0 | 3.4 | 7.0 |
| Dark Defense | 4.4 | 13.2 | 3.4 | 7.1 |
| Bleed Resistance | 35 | 86 | 29 | 48 |
| Poison Resistance | 25 | 62 | 21 | 36 |
| Frost Resistance | 25 | 62 | 21 | 36 |
| Curse Resistance | 25 | 62 | 21 | 36 |
| Poise | 8.3 | 24.6 | 6.0 | 14.4 |
| Icon Durability | 470 | 470 | 470 | 460 |
| Icon weight | 7.2 | 17.2 | 5.8 | 9.8 |
Gundyr’s Set Stats Table.
Champion Gundyr’s armor, the finest heavy attire, boasts remarkable aesthetics and formidable stats. To obtain it, defeat Champion Gundyr and exchange his soul with the fire keeper.
Found in Untended Graves, accessible right after defeating Oceiros, it provides reliable physical defense and remarkable bleed resistance, ideal for PVP encounters against dex users. The set has a weight of 40 and a poise of 44.
2. Dragonslayer Set
Best Heavy Armor Set for Balanced Defense.
Why did I Choose the Dragonslayer Set?
I chose the Dragonslayer set for its legendary status and its ability to harmonize well with other sets, making it a visually striking choice with solid defense capabilities.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | - | - | - | - |
| Strike Defense | 5.0 | 15.6 | 3.7 | 8.1 |
| Slash Defense | 4.0 | 12.7 | 3.0 | 6.5 |
| Thrust Defense | 5.5 | 17.0 | 4.1 | 8.9 |
| Magic Defense | 5.5 | 17.0 | 4.1 | 8.9 |
| Fire Defense | 3.7 | 12.9 | 3.3 | 6.3 |
| Lightning Defense | 4.1 | 13.8 | 3.7 | 6.9 |
| Dark Defense | 4.1 | 13.8 | 3.7 | 6.9 |
| Bleed Resistance | 2.9 | 10.7 | 2.6 | 4.9 |
| Poison Resistance | 28 | 64 | 21 | 38 |
| Frost Resistance | 18 | 40 | 13 | 23 |
| Curse Resistance | 18 | 43 | 14 | 24 |
| Poise | 16 | 36 | 12 | 21 |
| Icon Durability | 5.6 | 13.8 | 4.1 | 8.1 |
| Icon weight | 5.5 | 19.1 | 4.2 | 10.3 |
Dragonslayer Set Stats Table.
Worn by the legendary dragonslayer Ornstein, the Dragonslayer set is a coveted prize attainable only by defeating the Nameless King. Its iconic status is unquestionable, making it one of Dark Souls 3’s most visually striking heavy armors.
Moreover, it harmonizes remarkably well with other sets, as seen in the Guts Build, offering robust defense against both physical and elemental threats despite its moderate weight.
3. Havel’s Set
Best Heavy Armor Set with Max Poise.
Why did I Choose Havel’s Set?
I chose Havel’s set for its iconic status in the Dark Souls series, emphasizing its weight and historical relevance. It offers a powerful and imposing presence in the game.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | - | - | - | - |
| Regular Defense | 36.0 | 92.0 | 54.0 | 54.0 |
| Strike Defense | 30.6 | 78.2 | 45.9 | 45.9 |
| Slash Defense | 41.4 | 105.8 | 62.1 | 62.1 |
| Thrust Defense | 36.0 | 92.0 | 54.0 | 54.0 |
| Magic Defense | 22.0 | 56.0 | 32.0 | 32.0 |
| Fire Defense | 22.0 | 54.0 | 32.0 | 32.0 |
| Lightning Defense | 18.0 | 49.0 | 29.0 | 29.0 |
| Bleed Resistance | 18.0 | 45.0 | 27.0 | 27.0 |
| Poison Resistance | 4.0 | 11.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Curse Resistance | 9.0 | 22.0 | 13.0 | 13.0 |
| Poise | 18.0 | 47.0 | 28.0 | 28.0 |
| Weight | 7.5 | 19.5 | 11.5 | 11.5 |
Havel’s Set Stats Table.
The legendary Havel armor is a must-have in any Dark Souls heavy armor collection. It has made its mark in every Dark Souls installment, known for its substantial weight and historical significance as the attire of Lord Gwyn’s esteemed knight, Havel.
To obtain this iconic set, you’ll first need to defeat Havel in Archdragon Peak, found near the remains of a slain dragon. After vanquishing him, make your way to the Old Wolf of Farron bonfire in Farron Keep. Ascend the stairs to the location of the stray demon, where you will find the set waiting to be claimed.
The Havel set is undeniably weighty, boasting a hefty 57 units. Its substantial poise level of 50 and impressive resistance levels add to its appeal. Although its physical absorption may be underwhelming, its fashion souls aspect more than compensates for this minor drawback.
4. Black Iron Set
Best Heavy Armor Set for Visual Dominance.
Why did I Choose a Black Iron Set?
I chose the Black Iron set for its imposing appearance and its ability to provide reliable defense, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | - | - | - | - |
| Regular Defense | 27.0 | 68.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 |
| Strike Defense | 25.7 | 64.6 | 38.0 | 38.0 |
| Slash Defense | 31.1 | 78.2 | 46.0 | 46.0 |
| Thrust Defense | 27.0 | 68.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 |
| Magic Defense | 11.0 | 30.0 | 17.0 | 17.0 |
| Fire Defense | 19.0 | 51.0 | 30.0 | 30.0 |
| Lightning Defense | 8.0 | 21.0 | 13.0 | 13.0 |
| Bleed Resistance | 17.0 | 43.0 | 25.0 | 25.0 |
| Poison Resistance | 10.0 | 25.0 | 14.0 | 14.0 |
| Curse Resistance | 5.0 | 13.0 | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Poise | 12.0 | 31.0 | 18.0 | 18.0 |
| Weight | 6.0 | 15.6 | 9.2 | 9.2 |
Black Iron Set Stats Table.
Knightslayer Tsorig’s armor, the Black Iron set, exudes a formidable and commanding presence, rivaling the Gundyr set in raw aesthetics. To acquire it, defeat Knightslayer Tsorig in the Smoldering Lake and subsequently purchase the set from Firelink Shrine’s handmaiden.
This armor provides reliable physical defense and boasts high resistance against bleed and frost damage. While its stats may appear underwhelming, particularly considering its weight, its visual appeal more than compensates for its shortcomings.
5. Iron Dragonslayer Set
Best Heavy Armor Set for Max Defense.
Why did I Choose the Iron Dragonslayer Set?
I chose the Iron Dragonslayer set for its exceptional aesthetics and the challenge associated with getting it. It embodies the essence of heavy armor.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | - | - | - | - |
| Strike Defense | 6.1 | 15.7 | 3.7 | 9.5 |
| Slash Defense | 4.5 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 7.1 |
| Thrust Defense | 6.4 | 16.5 | 3.9 | 9.9 |
| Magic Defense | 6.6 | 17.2 | 4.1 | 10.4 |
| Fire Defense | 3.9 | 9.9 | 2.2 | 6.1 |
| Lightning Defense | 4.5 | 11.6 | 2.6 | 7.1 |
| Dark Defense | 5.3 | 13.8 | 3.2 | 8.4 |
| Bleed Resistance | 5.1 | 13.2 | 3.0 | 8.0 |
| Poison Resistance | 33 | 81 | 26 | 48 |
| Frost Resistance | 22 | 54 | 17 | 32 |
| Curse Resistance | 24 | 60 | 19 | 35 |
| Poise | 11 | 29 | 8 | 16 |
| Icon Durability | 6.3 | 14.8 | 5.1 | 9.5 |
| Icon weight | 7.0 | 20.1 | 4.8 | 12.5 |
Iron Dragonslayer Stats Table.
Fans have debated the Dragonslayer Armor boss fight’s difficulty, but unanimous agreement has existed regarding the armor’s exceptional aesthetics. The mere sight of it foreshadowed a challenging battle.
The Ringed City DLC granted players access to this coveted armor. To obtain it, defeat the Iron Dragonslayer in the Ringed City. The set excels in physical defense and boasts substantial resistances, except for bleed.
It epitomizes the concept of “heavy armor” more than most in the game.
6. Catarina Set
Heaviest Armor Set.
Why did I Choose the Catarina Set?
I chose the Catarina set for its iconic status and well-rounded defensive capabilities. Whether acquired through purchase or a questline, it provides a reliable and visually appealing option for heavy armor enthusiasts.
| STATS | Helm | Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor Type | Helms | Chest Armor | Gauntlets | Leggings |
| Physical Resistance | - | - | - | - |
| Regular Defense | 22.0 | 57.0 | 34.0 | 34.0 |
| Strike Defense | 21.8 | 56.4 | 33.7 | 33.7 |
| Slash Defense | 25.3 | 65.5 | 39.1 | 39.1 |
| Thrust Defense | 22.0 | 57.0 | 34.0 | 34.0 |
| Magic Defense | 12.0 | 31.0 | 18.0 | 18.0 |
| Fire Defense | 13.0 | 37.0 | 21.0 | 21.0 |
| Lightning Defense | 7.0 | 19.0 | 12.0 | 12.0 |
| Bleed Resistance | 13.0 | 34.0 | 21.0 | 21.0 |
| Poison Resistance | 9.0 | 24.0 | 13.0 | 13.0 |
| Curse Resistance | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| Poise | 8.0 | 21.0 | 13.0 | 13.0 |
| Weight | 4.5 | 11.7 | 6.9 | 6.9 |
Catarina Set Stats Table.
My list would be incomplete without a nod to the iconic Catarina set. Acquire it by purchasing from Patches for 15,000 souls as you advance through the game, or have Siegward leave it behind upon his questline’s conclusion.
This set ranks among the heavy armor elite, boasting remarkable physical defense and well-rounded resistances, though it’s somewhat lacking against curses. However, it’s also one of the heaviest sets on this list, nearly consuming 40 weight points.
Why Others Were Not Chosen?
- Elite Knight Set: It lacks unique features compared to other sets. While providing balanced stats, it doesn’t stand out regarding aesthetics or distinctive characteristics.
- Smough’s Set: It was not chosen due to its excessive weight and limited versatility. While it offers high physical defense, its impracticality for most builds and its appearance makes it less appealing compared to other options.
- Cathedral Knight Set: Has relatively low poise and heavier weight compared to other options. While it offers decent physical defense, its drawbacks in terms of mobility and balance made it less favorable.
- Lothric Knight Set: It was not chosen due to its overall generic appearance and lack of distinct features. While providing solid protection, it fails to stand out against the chosen sets, which offer a better balance of aesthetics and functionality.
- Silver Knight Set: It was not chosen primarily because of its limited availability and lack of versatility. While visually appealing, its scarcity and specific thematic ties make it less suitable for a broader range of playstyles.
- Sunset Armor Set: Has relatively lower defensive stats and lacks iconic status compared to the selected heavy armor sets. While visually interesting, it falls short in terms of both protection and recognition.
What Would I Recommend?
As an experienced Dark Souls 3 player with over 800 hours invested in the game, my recommendation for heavy armor sets would focus on Gundyr’s Set and Havel’s Set. Gundyr’s Set not only boasts exceptional aesthetics but also provides substantial protection and bleed resistance. It strikes a balance between visual appeal and in-game performance, making it a formidable choice for players who seek both style and functionality.
On the other hand, Havel’s Set, known for its historical significance and imposing presence, offers substantial weight, poise, and impressive resistance levels.
Despite its relatively lower physical absorption, the sheer weight and fashion souls aspect makes it a standout option. For players aiming to balance power, defense, and a touch of nostalgia, these two sets encapsulate the essence of a robust heavy armor build.
In the treacherous world of Dark Souls 3, where every choice matters, Gundyr’s Set and Havel’s Set provide a formidable combination of protection and visual dominance.
While you are here, consider checking out Dark Souls 3 Best Shield, Dark Souls 3 Katana Build, and Dark Souls 3 Dex Weapons.
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