Which Gel Should I Choose?

For anyone venturing into long-distance running, proper nutrition for endurance athletes is essential to reaching big goals. Whether you’re training for a half marathon, marathon or ultra marathon, having a solid nutrition strategy in place well before race day can make all the difference. One of the easiest ways to fuel your runs is with energy gels.

When running long distances, your body relies on glycogen stores—your primary source of energy—which get depleted during extended efforts. The most effective way to replenish these stores is by consuming carbohydrates, and energy gels provide a fast, convenient source. Packed with carbs and available in portable 1-1.5 ounce packets, energy gels are ideal for athletes looking to bring fuel with them on those high-mileage days.

Today, the market offers a wide variety of energy gel options for runners, catering to different absorption rates and personal preferences. Staying hydrated is just as important though, so sip water while consuming gels to avoid gastrointestinal (GI) issues.

Whether you prefer an all-natural energy gel, a scientifically formulated performance gel or something in between, testing a few options can help you find the perfect match for your body. Here are five of our favorite energy gels we think are worth trying on your next long run.

For 30 years, GU has developed some of the most tried and true energy gels on the market. The company offers three different types—the original, Roctane, and liquid—that come in more than 30 different flavors from salted caramel to raspberry lemonade. Depending on your texture preference, you might opt for a smooth gel or go for the fast-absorbing liquid.

For long-duration and high-intensity exercise, GU offers the Roctane energy gel, which carries more electrolytes and amino acids than the original. Each energy gel holds 21-23 grams of carbohydrates per packet. If you’re unsure which to pick for your next training session, check out GU’s handy suggested use guide.

Best for: If you’re looking for a classic energy gel with plenty of flavor options, GU might be the best fit for you.

Made with real fruit, chia seeds, and brown rice syrup, among other all-natural ingredients, Hüma energy gels are inspired by the fuel used by the Tarahumara tribe, the legendary Indigenous group featured in the bestseller, “Born to Run.” Hüma offers two different types of energy gels—the original and energy gel plus (which contains double the electrolytes from natural sources, including coconut water and sea salt)—that come in 12 delicious flavors ranging from strawberries to cafe mocha.

Best for: If all-natural ingredients are a high priority for you, Hüma will get the job done while fueling you for the miles ahead.

Over the last several years, Maurten has quickly become a favorite source of fuel for elite athletes, including marathon world record-holder Eliud Kipchoge. What sets Maurten’s energy gel apart is the product’s hydrogel technology, which has proven to be a gamechanger for runners who are prone to GI issues.

So, what is hydrogel technology? Alginate (a fiber extracted from seaweed) and pectin (found in fruits and vegetables) create a capsule that contains salt, glucose and fructose. Thanks to that encapsulation, the body can absorb more carbohydrate with relative ease through the digestive tract

Maurten’s energy gels come in two options—the GEL 100 and the GEL 100 CAF 100 (which contains 100 mg of caffeine)—that both deliver 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Best for: As many pros can attest, Maurten energy gels are a great choice for those who experience GI issues while on the run.

Made with zero sugar and no caffeine, UCAN’s energy gels boast a formula that helps endurance athletes release steady energy for up to 75 minutes at a time. A key ingredient in UCAN’s energy gels is LIVSTEADY, the company’s proprietary low-glycemic, plant-based complex carbohydrate aimed to keep blood sugar levels stable while fueling athletes on-the-go.

Unlike other energy gels that are meant to be consumed every 30-40 minutes during a longer run, UCAN suggests athletes eat one pouch every 60 minutes for workouts that go beyond 90 minutes. UCAN energy gels come in three different flavors—strawberry banana, pineapple, and orange.

Best for: If you’d rather minimize the amount of gels you’re consuming during long efforts, UCAN is an excellent choice for long-lasting energy.

Many runners are familiar with HoneyStinger’s energy waffle, but the energy gel is just as notable. Made with organic honey, tapioca syrup, and potassium citrate, among other ingredients, the HoneyStinger energy gel comes in four different flavors, including caffeine options, to fuel athletes for an easy boost of energy on-the-go.

Best for: HoneyStinger may be your pick if sweeter, fruit-forward recipes are your thing.