Maximum dexterity bonus

Most armors and shields have a maximum dexterity bonus. This is the maximum amount of additional Armor Class you can gain from your Dexterity bonus while wearing that item.

For example, a character with 14 Dexterity has a Dexterity modifier of +2. While unarmored, that character gains +2 AC. If she wears armor with a maximum dexterity bonus of +1 (such as Full plate) she would only gain +1 AC beyond what the armor itself provides.

Your encumbrance level may also impose a maximum dexterity bonus.

Dexterity bonus maximums do not stack. If you have more than one, only the lowest applies.

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Maximum dexterity bonus
The normal Maximum Dexterity Bonus is shown below. Mithral armors have a Maximum Dexterity Bonus that is 2 better than normal. Enhancements that increase maximum Dexterity Bonus are available to Fighters and Dwarves.

Light Armor

 * Padded 8
 * Leather 6
 * Studded leather 5
 * Chain shirt 4

Medium Armor

 * Hide armor 4
 * Scale mail 3
 * Chain mail 2
 * Brigandine 3
 * Breastplate 3

Heavy Armor

 * Splint mail 0
 * Banded mail 1
 * Half Plate 0
 * Full Plate 1

Shield
Enhancements that increase the Maximum Dexterigy Bonus are available to Fighters.


 * Tower shield 2
 * Other shields do not have Maximum Dexterity Bonus

Encumbrance

 * Light (no Maximum Dexterity Bonus)
 * Medium 3
 * Heavy 1