My character is a melee type, and is currently using Light Armor.
Do the perks that light armor provides (extra stamina regen mainly) outweigh the perks and higher armor value that heavy armor provides?
Melee Combat: Heavy Armor vs. Light Armor
the-elder-scrolls-v-skyrim
Related Solutions
If you're going for a tank build (stand there, violently attacking and taking tons of damage) go heavy. This would be melee > magic.
If you're going for a kiting build (run around, fire off spells, then run in and attack) go light armour OR (IMHO a better option from what I've seen; the stat boosts are huge) enchanted robes of something. This would be for a magic > melee build.
And if you're looking for bonuses, I believe they are equal. If not, just enchant your own.
The description will tell you if the item is heavy or light armour. Refer to the image below. (The small, dark grey text just above and to the left of the item name)
Best Answer
From the looks of things the only differences between the two skill trees are,
I don't know if you reflect 100% of the damage, thus negating it, but I would assume so, otherwise the light armour would be much better in that respect.
Personally I've been stacking Stamina a little to get around this as I use heavy armour, but then again I can tank much more than my follower who is in Elvan armour. Don't forget that you can move quicker and quieter in lighter armour also. I think it's more about your playstyle. Also extra Stamina points increase your carry capacity.