A senior hiker wears an exoskeleton device. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

With the cool autumn weather drawing more hikers to the hills, Banshan National Forest Park introduced Hangzhou's first shared exoskeleton rental service on Oct 27, inviting residents to try the hiking-assist device for free.

Weighing about 2.5 kilograms, the exoskeleton helps users save up to 30 percent of their physical effort while hiking.

"It makes my legs feel lighter — I can keep up with my wife and enjoy the scenery without stopping every few steps," said an elderly man.

For 70-year-old Li, who has mild joint problems, the experience was especially meaningful. "He said it felt wonderful to hike like everyone else again," his daughter shared.

Reporters testing the device noted its surprising lightness and strong support when climbing stairs.

According to Liang Linchao, founder of Taixi Intelligent Technology Co, the service aims to bring tech-powered hiking to more citizens, especially seniors. Visitors can rent the devices via QR code at the park's main entrance, with staff on hand to assist.

The devices are free to use from Oct 27 to 31 around the Chongyang Festival, or the Double Ninth Festival, which falls on Oct 29 this year and is commonly observed by Chinese people to express their admiration for the elderly. From Nov 1 to 30, citizens can enjoy a promotional rate of just 1 yuan ($0.14) before regular pricing of 9.9 yuan per hour begins.

Mountain patrollers wear exoskeleton devices for daily work. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]