I am on EU and our archers are insane, not sure about NA's.
With the 27ish head armor I used first I was oneshotted with a crossbow going full speed away and another dozen of times sideways, not sure how the 40ish one will work out, but will test that now.
Concerning my armor I am worried about my weight simply because I get dismounted most of the times and then I need to run like a mad man.