I'd think it would depend on the frequency of interactions. Leg and foot protection would add weight, so unless the dwarves were expected they might not want to bear the extra burden.

On that note, Lord of the Rings extended editions have been showing in theaters the last couple weekends. I kept thinking how prior to battles the fighters were all geared up and marched for days (or longer) and showed up throwing themselves straight into battle. Here I am not functioning as my soft ass finishes my coffee in bed, trying to negotiate when I need to actually start getting ready for work.