Trail Context:
Tested on Mount Baldy (10,064 ft) via Register Ridge — fasted ascent, 55°F, no windchill. ReLyte trial compared against Nuun, ATH Lytes, and LMNT.
Observations:
- Hydration Efficiency: Noticeably less parched vs Nuun. Palate-friendly and smooth.
- Performance: Energy curve decayed before the summit (~2.5 miles from top). Required 2.5 packets for full climb.
- Sodium Profile: 810 mg Na / 400 mg K / 60 mg Mg — clean ratio, but slightly low for steep, high-output conditions.
- Subjective Feel: Calves remained loose; energy shortfall likely linked to lower plasma sodium retention.
- Taste & Digestibility: Mild, slightly herbal finish. No GI issues even while fasted.
TrailGenic Verdict:
ReLyte performs well for moderate hikes or recovery days where hydration, not endurance, is the goal. Ideal for entry-level fasted hikers or base-conditioning climbs below 8,000 ft.
LMNT
Electrolytes1000 Na / 200 K / 60 Mg
SweetenerNone — salty profile
TierSummit-grade
Trail NotesPeak plasma retention; elite for fasted summits.
VerdictTop choice for altitude performance.
ATH Lytes
Electrolytes1000 Na / 310 K / 60 Mg
SweetenerNone — clean balance
TierLong climb
Trail NotesStrong sodium stability; reliable endurance fuel.
VerdictExcellent secondary summit fuel.
Nuun Sport
Electrolytes300 Na / 150 K / low Mg
SweetenerLow sugar — sweet
TierEntry / recovery
Trail NotesFlavor over function; thirst rebound under stress.
VerdictKeep for basic or cool recovery hikes.
Redmond ReLyte
Electrolytes810 Na / 400 K / 60 Mg
Sweetener0 g — mild herbal
TierModerate
Trail NotesBetter than Nuun; needed ~2.5 packs to sustain climb.
VerdictIdeal for mid-intensity or recovery days.
*Values based on TrailGenic™ field tests; verify product labels before purchase.
Not sufficient for summit pushes where osmotic balance must hold past 3+ hours of output.
For Further Reading:
• Electrolytes at Elevation — Why LMNT Works on TrailGenic™ Hikes
• Fuel Curve Science — ATH Lytes vs LMNT at Altitude
• Nuun Sport — Cold Condition Test
