I have a character who is in the 60s in level and since the early 40s, virtually nothing has presented a serious challenge to me, other then maybe those pesky Draugr Deathlords with Ebony Bows/Arrows. I have her equipped in Penitus Oculatus Armor, Gloves, and Boots with a Forsworn Headdress.

My armor rating is 294 without a shield, and 343 with her Imperial Light Shield (I like it because its light in weight). Basically the highest you can attain with a cloth mage (without a shield) and a cloth mage with the lord stone.

I play on Expert level, and I imagine I'd want another 50-100 points of armor rating if I were playing on Master.

So basically, if you plan on playing a cloth mage, especially if you plan on utilizing Paralysis and Mas Paralysis in alteration, its completely valid and can actually be superior to go with the flesh spells in early and mid game....



...unless you svck at skyrim, then yeah, bump that armor rating all the way up to the cap.