well, i still have the limited 6 level version, but i have come up with two, no three interesting figting styles.
1/ mounted archer. have all the armor you want and don't lose any sped. usualy use a bow, two sets of arrows and a 2h weap. if your skill is poor, just stop the horse completely before you shoot.
2/ foot archer. make your armor as light as you can afford it. the same weapon configuration, but beware of the enemy missile troops. it is just so much fun to be running backwards and making those headshots, or waiting for the mounted guy with the shield to open up at the last moment just to take an arrow that will not allow him to hit you.
3/ most interesting way. close combat on foot. here i have a fast weapon, on very long range weapon (both 1h) and two (yes two) good shields. just one shield gets smashed up too fast in intense combat. The armor is your choice, either you prefer to step aside from the hit, or take less damage from the hit. use the fast weapon on footmen and the long one on hersemen, just practice, so you can pierce them at the right moment, before they have already paased you. and choose the spot you are standing on visely (find a steep hill).