Ever hit that wall during a long run, feeling your energy drain away like a leaky faucet? You know that feeling – your legs get heavy, your mind goes foggy, and the finish line seems miles away. For many runners, this mid-run slump is a familiar foe, and often, the solution lies in what you fuel your body with.
That’s where running gels and chews come in. These small but mighty powerhouses are designed to give you a quick burst of energy when you need it most. But navigating the aisles of sports nutrition can feel like a jungle! With so many brands, flavors, and types, how do you pick the ones that will actually work for you and not leave you with a stomach ache? It’s a common struggle, and we get it.
In this post, we’re going to break down the world of running gels and chews. We’ll help you understand what they are, why they’re so important for your performance, and most importantly, how to choose the best ones for your next race or training session. Get ready to say goodbye to that energy wall and hello to a smoother, more energized run!
Our Top 5 Running Gels And Chews Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Running Gels And Chews Detailed Reviews
1. Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Gel
Rating: 9.4/10
Fuel your next adventure with Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Gels. This 12-pack offers a delicious, classic fruit flavor in easy-to-carry pouches. They are perfect for a quick energy boost before or during your workout, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or biking.
What We Like:
- Delicious fruit blend taste that’s easy to enjoy.
- Provides a quick energy boost with 24g of carbs per serving.
- Portable and easy to digest, ideal for on-the-go fuel.
- Made with USDA Organic ingredients like carbs for energy and potassium for electrolytes.
- Trusted by many professional and college sports teams.
- Gluten-free and caffeine-free, suitable for many dietary needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Packaging can sometimes vary, which might be unexpected for some.
These Honey Stinger gels are a reliable choice for athletes and active individuals. They deliver sustained energy and taste great, making them a valuable addition to your sports nutrition.
2. Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chew
Rating: 9.0/10
Fuel your active lifestyle with the Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chews! This 12-pack delivers a delicious burst of energy, perfect for powering through workouts, runs, or any activity that requires a boost. These soft, bite-sized chews come in three tasty fruit flavors: Cherry, Orange, and Berry, making them a treat to enjoy on the go.
What We Like:
- Delicious variety of Cherry, Orange, and Berry flavors keeps things interesting.
- Provides a quick and sustained energy boost with 23g of carbs per serving, perfect for pre or mid-workout fuel.
- Gluten-free and caffeine-free, making them suitable for many dietary needs.
- Packed with Vitamin C and natural sweeteners to help replenish energy stores.
- Sodium is included to help replace electrolytes lost during exercise.
- Portable and easy to digest, they are ideal for gym bags and race days.
- Trusted by over 2,000 pro and college teams, showing their effectiveness for performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Packaging may vary, which could be a minor surprise.
These Honey Stinger chews are a fantastic choice for anyone needing convenient, delicious, and effective energy. Grab a pack and experience the difference they can make in your performance.
3. GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel
Rating: 9.5/10
Fuel your next adventure with GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Raspberry Lemonade flavor! This 8-count pack is packed with everything you need to power through any workout, from a quick jog to a long hike. It’s made for athletes who want to perform at their best, giving you sustained energy and helping you recover.
What We Like:
- Provides 100 calories and important electrolytes to keep you going.
- Uses two types of sugar, maltodextrin and fructose, which your body uses in different ways. This means you get energy that lasts longer without feeling a crash.
- Great for all your favorite activities like running, biking, hiking, or skiing, no matter the season.
- Contains branched-chain amino acids that help reduce muscle soreness and keep your mind sharp.
- This Raspberry Lemonade flavor is vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and dairy-free, making it a good choice for many people.
- It’s caffeine-free, so you can use it any time of day without jitters.
- Easy to carry and use on the go.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might find the texture a little thick.
- While the Raspberry Lemonade flavor is great, a wider variety of caffeine-free options would be a nice addition.
This GU Energy Gel is a reliable and effective way to boost your performance. Grab a pack and experience the difference it can make in your training and races!
4. CLIF BLOKS – Energy Chews – Variety Pack – Non-GMO – Plant Based – Fast Fuel for Cycling and Running – Quick Carbohydrates and Electrolytes – 2.12 oz. Packets (12 Count)
Rating: 9.4/10
Fuel your next adventure with CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews! This variety pack is designed for athletes by athletes, offering a quick and easy way to get the energy you need for long runs, bike rides, and intense workouts. These plant-based, non-GMO chews are packed with fast-acting carbohydrates and electrolytes to keep you going strong.
What We Like:
- Provides quick energy for endurance activities.
- Convenient 33-calorie cubes are easy to digest.
- Helps athletes manage electrolyte intake with varying sodium levels.
- Soft, non-sticky texture makes them enjoyable to eat.
- Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients like organic tapioca syrup.
- Free from high fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors.
- Comes in a variety of delicious flavors like Black Cherry and Strawberry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Packaging may vary, which could be a minor inconvenience for some.
- Some users might prefer a wider range of flavor options beyond the included variety.
CLIF BLOKS are a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable energy boost. They make fueling up during exercise simple and tasty.
5. Skratch Labs Energy Chews
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of yucky energy gels? Skratch Labs Energy Chews are here to save your workout! These tasty gummies are made with real fruit, like sweet raspberries, giving you a delicious burst of flavor. They’re designed to give you fast and steady energy without upsetting your stomach. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or just love to stay active, these chews are for you. They are a great alternative to sticky gels and blocks. You get 80 calories and 19 grams of carbs in each serving. This helps your body absorb energy quickly. Skratch Labs uses real food to make their sports nutrition. They don’t use fake sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. This means they taste great and won’t cause stomach problems. You can perform at your best with Skratch Labs Energy Chews.
What We Like:
- Made with real fruit for great taste.
- Easy to digest, helping you avoid stomach upset.
- Perfect for athletes of all kinds during workouts.
- Provides quick and sustained energy with glucose and fructose.
- No artificial ingredients, so they are gentle on your stomach.
- Variety pack offers different flavors to try.
- Gluten-free and vegan, fitting various dietary needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a larger variety of flavors in the pack.
- The chew shape, while designed for digestion, might not appeal to everyone compared to traditional gummies.
Skratch Labs Energy Chews offer a delicious and effective way to fuel your performance. They are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a better-tasting and stomach-friendly energy source.
Fuel Your Run: The Ultimate Guide to Running Gels and Chews
Running gels and chews are like little energy boosters for your body. They give you quick energy when you’re running long distances or working out hard. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your next adventure!
What to Look for: Key Features
When you’re choosing running fuel, think about what your body needs.
Quick Energy Sources
- Carbohydrates are King: Gels and chews are packed with carbs. These are your body’s main fuel. Look for options with simple sugars like maltodextrin or fructose. These break down fast and give you energy right away.
Taste and Texture
- Flavor Fun: You’ll be eating these on the go, so pick flavors you actually like! Some people prefer fruity tastes, while others like sweeter options.
- Easy to Eat: Gels are usually goopy and come in packets. Chews are like chewy candies. Some runners find gels easier to swallow quickly. Others prefer the chewing action of chews.
Ingredients and Nutrition
- Electrolytes Matter: Long runs make you sweat. Electrolytes like sodium and potassium help your body hold onto water and keep your muscles working. Many gels and chews have these added.
- No Unwanted Additives: Look for products with simple ingredient lists. Avoid things you can’t pronounce if you’re concerned about artificial colors or flavors.
Convenience
- Easy to Open and Carry: You need to be able to grab and open your fuel quickly without stopping. Packaging is important! Some packets are easier to tear than others.
What’s Inside: Important Materials
The ingredients in your running fuel are key to how well they work.
Carbohydrates
- Maltodextrin: This is a common carbohydrate that gives you steady energy.
- Fructose: Another sugar that your body uses for fuel.
- Glucose: The simplest sugar, which your body uses right away.
Electrolytes
- Sodium: Helps replace what you lose in sweat. It also helps your body absorb water.
- Potassium: Works with sodium to keep your body balanced.
Other Additives
- Some products might have added caffeine for an extra boost. Others might have amino acids to help with muscle recovery.
Making the Grade: Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a gel or chew great? What can make it less ideal?
Quality Boosters
- Digestible Ingredients: The best fuels are easy on your stomach. If you get an upset tummy, it’s no good!
- Balanced Energy Release: A good product provides energy without a big sugar crash later.
- Pleasant Taste: You’re more likely to use something you enjoy.
Quality Reducers
- Stomach Upset: If a product causes nausea or cramps, its quality is low for you.
- Artificial Ingredients: Some people are sensitive to artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.
- Difficult Packaging: Struggling to open a gel packet mid-run is frustrating.
Putting Them to Use: User Experience and Use Cases
How and when do runners use these energy boosters?
For the Long Haul
- Marathons and Half-Marathons: Runners often use gels or chews every 45-60 minutes during these long races. They help keep energy levels up.
- Long Training Runs: Practice makes perfect! Using fuel on your long training runs helps you get used to it before a race.
Intense Workouts
- Hard Interval Sessions: If you’re doing a tough workout that lasts more than an hour, a gel or chew can help you push through.
- Cycling and Triathlon: These fuels are popular for other endurance sports too.
User Tips
- Hydrate: Always drink water with your gels and chews. This helps your body absorb the energy.
- Test Before Race Day: Never try a new fuel on race day! Test different brands and flavors during your training runs to see what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Gels and Chews
Q: What are the main benefits of using running gels and chews?
A: They give you quick energy, help you stay hydrated with electrolytes, and are easy to carry and consume during your run.
Q: How often should I use running gels or chews?
A: Most runners use them every 45-60 minutes during long runs or races. It’s best to experiment during training to find what works for you.
Q: Can I eat gels and chews before a run?
A: Some people do, but it’s usually better to use them during your run for sustained energy. Eating too much right before a run can sometimes cause stomach issues.
Q: What’s the difference between gels and chews?
A: Gels are liquidy and easy to swallow. Chews are like gummy candies that you chew. Both provide quick energy.
Q: Do I need to drink water with gels and chews?
A: Yes, absolutely! Drinking water helps your body absorb the carbohydrates and electrolytes, and it prevents digestive upset.
Q: Are there any side effects of using running gels and chews?
A: Some people might experience stomach upset, nausea, or a sugar crash if they use too much or if their body doesn’t agree with the ingredients. Testing is key!
Q: Can I use gels and chews for shorter runs?
A: For runs under an hour, you usually don’t need them. Your body has enough stored energy. They are most helpful for longer or more intense efforts.
Q: What does “electrolytes” mean in running fuel?
A: Electrolytes are minerals like sodium and potassium that your body loses when you sweat. They help keep your body balanced and prevent dehydration.
Q: Are there vegan options for running gels and chews?
A: Yes, many brands offer vegan-friendly options. Always check the ingredient list.
Q: Where is the best place to buy running gels and chews?
A: You can buy them at sporting goods stores, specialty running shops, online retailers, and sometimes even at larger grocery stores.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.