Equip Load

Weight is a gameplay mechanic and stat in Dark Souls 2.

Overview
Weight applies to all types of worn items, such as weapons, armor, and shields. The heavier an item is, the more it encumbers the player. Weapons with a higher weight value tend to have a slower swing speed, and heavier armor piece tend to have more defense and Poise.

Equipment Load
Maximum equipment load is determined by the Vitality stat and determines how greatly the weight of the currently equipped weapon and armor affect movement and roll speed. This change occurs when the total sum of the weight of equipment exceeds 70% and 100% of the total equip load.When 70% is reached, the player's roll will become shorter, slower, and with higher ending lag. When 100% is reached, the player may only walk, as back-stepping and rolling will result in short stagger.

Items affecting maximum Equipement Load

 * The Royal Soldier's Ring variants increases the player's maximum equipment load by 10%, 15%, and 20% depending on the level of the ring.
 * The First, Second, and Third Dragon Ring increase the player's maximum equipment load by 5%, 10%, and 12.5% respectively, while also boosting max health and stamina. (Note that only one Dragon Ring may be equipped at the same time, regardless of the prefix)
 * Each pieces of the of the Aurous' Set (Transparent) grants different equip load bonuses depending on the Vitality of the player.