It might look stupid, but appearances are the least of their concerns right now. Maine waits as Brigitte considers. He won't push her either way, even if it does seem like the most practical option to him. They need to move quickly without becoming exhausted; Maine can ensure both by carrying her. Who cares if they look silly?

When Brigitte agrees, Maine immediately turns and kneels for her to clamber onto his back. He holds her legs behind the knees and stands without a hint of effort. He may as well have just shouldered a backpack, not an entire person plus her weaponry.

Then they're off.

The giant Freelancer may not have intended to move any slower with Brigitte aboard, but he does all the same. He doesn't have his hands free to roughly shove things aside; he has to pick his way around obstacles rather than bulldozing straight through. It forces him to move with greater care, and it makes sticking to the trail much easier.

As they walk, Maine admits, "Looks dumber in armor." Meaning that he's done the same thing while both he and the other person were fully armored.