However, in the v1.0 game, you can get the benefits for leather and chain by taking the appropriate skill level in chain and plate respectively. Once my characters have reached master level in these two skills, I consider it legitimate to use an editor to confer mastery in chain on the leather master, and mastery in plate on the chain master. That way, I get the recovery benefits. I don't, of course, equip the leather user with chain or the chain user with plate.

Regarding Time and Damage, you'll have to consult the combat guide; I cannot comment.