Grappler build

[follacchioso]

I'm preparing a similar build, although I start at level 5 and the campaign will likely finish at 7-8. Thus I'm going for swords bard, which may give some boost to speed and AC from time to time.

Consider gauntlets of ogre strength if you don't want to maximize str. You don't really need an high strength, because with expertise your athletics checks will be good enough. However it will help if you get it from a magic item. It's an uncommon item, so the dm should not be worried.

Con saves are important, however not as much as you may think, because you will likely always concentrate on enhance ability and in the worst case you only lose the advantage (but still have high athletics). It would be different if you had enlarge / reduce, but you need a different set up for that.

Be sure to get long strider for the speed.

I'm also taking disguise self and expertise in deception, with the idea of infiltrating the enemy base and make grappling surprises. But that's just a preference.