Hiking with an autoimmune disorder can be physically draining. But it is easier with the right gear. Our top recommendation is a cooling vest to avoid overheating - an enemy to most of us living with MS. But I have a few other suggestions for enjoyin...
Sections
5
Keep Cool
Select Quality Gear
Keep Hydrated
Eat High Energy Snacks
Support Your Body
Keep Cool
Overheating causes massive energy loss - Keep cool to hike strong
Best vest for keeping cool on hot days
ThermApparel
Great hat for keeping cool
Columbia Bora Bora II Booney Sun Hat Grey
Select Quality Gear
Invest in quality gear that lasts a long time. It's better for the environment and you!
Hiking poles help me keep my balance and take pressure off my legs, especially my weak one.
Trekking Poles, Hiking Staffs & Walking Sticks | REI Co-op
This backpack is designed to take pressure off your back and necks. I love it for long hikes!
Wy'east Daypack - Six Moon Designs
Distribute wait evenly - that means using a camera harness like this one. It also frees up my hands for hiking poles.
Nicama S-VEST Camera Harness
Great support starts with your feet… buy quality hiking boots. Columbia is my go-to brand for boots.
Women's Hiking Boots & Shoes | Columbia Sportswear
Keep Hydrated
S'well keeps water cold.
Swell Water Bottle
You might prefer a hydration backpack to a S'well water bottle… either way, hydrate your muscles for a better hike!
Hydration Backpacks
Eat High Energy Snacks
Eating small meals throughout the day instead of one big one can help you hike better.
No gluten, no dairy - which fit my MS diet perfectly. And absolutely delicious… except for the apple walnut which I do not recommend.
Larabar
High quality dark chocolate packs a punch. I reserve treats like these for days when I exert a lot of energy… like hiking!
Pacari Chocolate - The best chocolate for the world
I also like high protein paleo bars… a little less sweet than the Larabar. But you better like coconut as they can sometimes taste like a macaroon.
