A theoretical analysis is made of the mechanical advantages of exoskeletons and endoskeletons. More complicated and realistic loading systems are considered than have been by previous authors. For all cases involving static loading, an exoskeleton would seem to be advantageous, but sometimes the advantage is quite small. If impact is considered, the advantage of exoskeletons becomes very much reduced, even on theoretical calculations;​ and it is likely that in life the advantage may be converted to a disadvantage, particularly in large active animals such as vertebrates.