Barding refers to protective armor designed specifically for mounts, such as horses, griffons, or other ridden creatures. Crafted from materials like leather, chainmail, or plate, barding offers mounts additional defense during combat or hazardous travel, much like armor for adventurers. Barding types often mirror standard armor categories—light, medium, or heavy—affecting the mount's speed and maneuverability accordingly. While it provides significant protection, barding can be costly and may require specialized training or equipment to equip and maintain properly.