Layering Armor?

[endwarde]

Other than the rules stating that reflec is designed to be worn under other armor, are there any rules anywhere for layering armor?
For example, if you were to wear cloth armor and then wear a flak jacket over the top of it, are there any rules set up for this, as far as max dex and any other penalties?

 

[themink]

There are rules for it in the PHB - basically, the only thing worth layering is reflec.

 

[endwarde]

Could you tell me where those rules are? I am at a loss to find them. Thanks.

 

[lightsenshi]

I can't sight an exact reference (as I don't have books handy) but it does state either in the equipment or combat section that only the highest armor rating applies, but penalties are cumulative.

 

[Vanguard]

The answer is a fundamental part of the d20 system: Named bonuses don't stack.

Wearing armor gives an "armor bonus" of some value. Since a bonus with a name (in this case, "armor") won't stack with another bonus of the same name, wearing two different types of armor will only apply the better of the two values.

Of course, there are a few exceptions to the named bonuses don't stack rule. For one, dodge bonuses always stack. I believe synergy bonuses stack as well. Circumstance bonuses only stack if they are caused by different circumstances.
There's a big table in one of the D&D books somewhere (DMG I think, with the magic items maybe?) that lists the various types, but I think I covered the big exceptions.

Hope that helps!

 

[themink]

Found my "rules on layering armour". They were in GURPS - I read too many rule books.

SO I led you astray.

My Bad