Barbarian Fast Movement Shield Restriction

[Ogadim]

I am aware that Heavy Armor negates a Barbarian's Fast Movement ability while Mithral Full Plate would not since it is considered Medium armor. My question is does a Heavy Shield count as Heavy Armor as well? If so, would a Mithral Heavy Shield qualify as Medium Armor for the Barbarian's Fast Movement ability?

[Sazbirtraz]

Shields do not count as any kind of armor, a Barbarian can run around at mach 5 and not be hampered in any way by the use of a shield.

The barbarian's faster speed is only restricted when wearing heavy armor or carrying a heavy load, so unless the shield is somehow increasing the barbarian's carry load to heavy, they get access to the class feature while wearing/wielding shields.

By comparison, look at the Weapon and Armor Proficiency section of the Monk class, which specifically calls out wearing any armor or a shield as restricting their class abilities. The wording would be similar if the same shield restriction affected barbarians.

Hope this helps.

[Ogadim]

Thank you. That is what I figured since generally skills and abilities distinguish between armor and shields. I will have to talk with my DM since he claimed a Heavy Shield would negate the ability. Luckily I have plenty of time since I plan on dual classing into Barbarian on my Fighter several levels from now. Just needed to know for proper planning.