Originally posted by DarthTanyon:

Do people actually use the light armor? I never felt a need for it personally. I want the best survivability chance against attacks and I'm afforded that by the heavier armor.

People who have mastered the game mechanic and can confidently dodge all attacks don't use heavy armor since those give speed penalties. The light Fenris armor set gives a speed bonus even.

And honestly, I get it. Not my playstyle but I get it.

On Plains and Mistland, you can die so easily even with the best armor.
Without it, you have better odds of dodging & escaping since you're faster. This very principle is also used by ace players in the Soulsbourne franchise.