An exoskeleton comprises at least one load-bearing element including a flexible hose, sleeve or cable having a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The first end portion is engageable with a load and is configured to transfer a weight of the load to the hose, sleeve or cable. The hose, sleeve or cable is configured to transfer the weight of the load from the first end portion to the second end portion, and the second end portion is configured to transfer the weight of the load to a support surface upon which the exoskeleton is supported.
