Summary
Barbarians are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Though they are strong combatants, they typically don’t wear armor due to their Unarmored Defense ability, which allows them to calculate their Armor Class (AC) using their Dexterity and Constitution modifiers instead of wearing armor.
When dressing your barbarian, it’s best to opt for an outfit with special abilities instead of protective armor, though some armor options are available. This class doesn’t have proficiency in Heavy armor, so make sure you choose a lighter option. This article discusses the best armor and outfit options for barbarians inBaldur’s Gate 3.
Wearing Heavy Armor impedes your Rage, so we don’t recommend it for barbarians.
10Githyanki Half-Plate
If you opt to equip armor on your barbarian, the Githyanki Half-Plate is a decent option earlier in the game. This common, medium armor is typically worn byLae’zel, but can be found on other Githyanki you encounter.
With an AC of 15 plus your Dexterity Modifier, your barbarian will have some added protection while charging into battle as a tank. Whether you go with a half-plate or unarmored depends on your build and preference.
9Dark Justiciar Half-Plate
Another armor option for your barbarian is the Dark Justiciar Half-Plate. This very rare armor is found in Act 2. It grants Advantage on Constitution Saving Throws and has an AC of 17, boosting your defensive abilities. This armor also provides the Shield of Faith, adding to your AC.
This armor also provides a Stealth bonus, something barbarians typically don’t excel in. However, the Unarmored perk is also based on Constitution, so your choice to equip this armor depends on your playstyle and preferences.
8Flame Enamelled Armour
The Flame Enamelled Armour is a very rare, medium armor available in Act 3. This armor grants a +2 to your Initiative Roll, increasing the chances you go first in combat. It also provides Resistance to Fire Damage and +2 to all Saving Throws. In addition, you gain a Fire Shield: Warm spell.
While the Unarmored perks are beneficial, they don’t come with some of the fire and initiative abilities this armor has, so weigh your options in combat carefully.
7Bhaalist Armour
The Bhaalist Armour is a very rare, light armor option for your barbarian. Acquired in Act 3, it grants the Aura of Murder ability, meaning enemies within seven feet become vulnerable to Piercing damage unless already Resistant to it.
The Ambusher bonus also gives you +2 to Initiative Rolls, making it more likely you’ll go first in battle. Barbarians wearing this in close combat will have a distinct advantage against enemies.
6Cloth Of Authority
The Cloth of Authority is the outfit that Gortash wears throughout the game. It’s not considered armor, so you will have Unarmored Defense with this outfit. This rare piece of clothing gives you 10 AC plus your Dexterity Modifier.
In addition to the protection, you cannot be Frightened in this outfit and have Advantage on all Intimidation and Insight checks. This comes in handy later in the game when enemies tend to inflict Fear on your party.
You must defeat Gortash to get this piece of clothing.
5Bloodguzzler Garb
The Bloodguzzler Garb is a great option for barbarians who don’t wish to wear actual armor. This uncommon clothing has an AC of 10, plus the Unarmored Defence bonus, adding your Constitution Modifier to the total.
The Grievous Retribution feature grants the wearer Wrath when hit, meaning you have a +1 bonus to damage with melee weapons for every turn this condition has remaining. While it’s not the most powerful garb, it’s a decent option early in the game.
4Adamantine Scale Mail
Adamantine Scale Mail is a craftable armor available in Act 1. This rare, medium armor reduces all incoming damage by one. Due to the Adamantine Backlash, your attackers are sent Reeling after a melee attack for two turns. In addition, they cannot land Critical Hits on the wearer.
With an AC of 16 plus your Dexterity modifier, this is the best choice if you want your barbarian to gear up with armor instead of clothing.
Forging this armor requires the Scale Male Mould and Minthral Ore.
3The Mighty Cloth
The Mighty Cloth is a garment available during Act 2. This rare piece of clothing gives the wearer +2 Strength. You also gain the Bull’s Strength condition, allowing you to take on the might of a bull, doubling your carrying capacity and giving you Advantage on Strength Checks.
With the added Bull’s Rush and Unwavering Bull abilities, you cannot be pushed against your will, are less likely to be Restrained, and can charge forward and knock your foes back. Basically, this clothing seriously enhances your Strength during battle.
2Enraging Heart Garb
TheEnraging Heart Garbwas made for barbarians. This rare chest piece provides 10 AC plus your Dexterity Modifier and boosts your Constitution by +2. The Ruintamer Heart condition means that while Raging, the wearer generates two turns of Wrath.
In other words, it helps you deal more damage with your melee weapon and increases your offensive potential. Enhancing your power, this garment makes you a more formidable force on the frontlines in Act 2.
1Bonespike Garb
The Bonespike Garb is the best clothing option for barbarians in Baldur’s Gate 3. The very rare garment grants the wearer 15 temporary Hit Points while using Rage, helping you stay upright in battle for longer. In addition, attackers receive Piercing damage after striking your barbarian, making any attack against you an attack against themselves.
Only available in Act 3, this end-game armor seriously boosts your defensive abilities and allows your healers to focus on aiding other companions, saving your party spell slots and healing potions during battle.
Combine with the Bonespike Helmet, Gloves, and Boots for a more powerful combination.
