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Best Energy Gels For Running (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an extra boost of energy during your next run or workout, energy gels may be just what you need. These small and portable packets are filled with a combination of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and caffeine to help improve endurance and performance. However, before you grab the first packet you see, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, it’s important to assess your individual needs and preferences. Are you looking for a gel that has a high calorie count for longer runs, or do you prefer something with a lower sugar content? Additionally, considering factors such as taste, texture, and digestibility can also play a significant role in choosing the right product for you.

When making a decision, it’s also important to read reviews and do research on different brands and flavors. Pay attention to the ingredients list and nutritional information to ensure you are selecting a gel that aligns with your dietary restrictions and goals.

If you’re curious about energy gels but not sure where to start, consider these questions:

-Do you struggle with maintaining energy levels during longer runs or workouts?

-Are you looking for a convenient and easily digestible way to refuel during exercise?

-Would you like to improve your overall endurance and performance?

By considering these questions and doing your research, you can find the perfect energy gel to enhance your exercise routine.

10 Best Energy Gels For Running

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for adults who need a comfortable and secure way to carry small items during physical activity.
2
The product is ideal for providing quick and easy energy during physical activity or workouts.
3
The product is ideal for sports nutrition during exercise, running, and pre/mid-workout at home or gym.
4
This product is ideal for providing energy during exercise, running, and workouts, and is gluten-free and caffeine-free.
5
It is ideal for providing energy and nutrition during physical activity such as sports, exercise, or outdoor adventures.
6
The product is ideal for providing energy and nutrition during exercise, workouts, and physical activities.
7
Ideal for carrying a small amount of liquid or gel while trail running or other outdoor activities.
8
The product is ideal for providing natural energy during workouts, specifically for cycling and running.
9
The product is ideal for providing energy during physical activities such as sports and workouts.
10
The product is ideal for providing an energy boost during physical activities like running and cycling.
The product is ideal for adults who need a comfortable and secure way to carry small items during physical activity.
The product is ideal for providing quick and easy energy during physical activity or workouts.
The product is ideal for sports nutrition during exercise, running, and pre/mid-workout at home or gym.
This product is ideal for providing energy during exercise, running, and workouts, and is gluten-free and caffeine-free.
It is ideal for providing energy and nutrition during physical activity such as sports, exercise, or outdoor adventures.
The product is ideal for providing energy and nutrition during exercise, workouts, and physical activities.
Ideal for carrying a small amount of liquid or gel while trail running or other outdoor activities.
The product is ideal for providing natural energy during workouts, specifically for cycling and running.
The product is ideal for providing energy during physical activities such as sports and workouts.
The product is ideal for providing an energy boost during physical activities like running and cycling.

1. Sleek Black Performance Running Belt With Energy Loops

The SPIbelt Performance Belt for Adults is the perfect solution for carrying your essential items while staying comfortable and secure. With its expandable, low-profile pouch, you can easily store your phone, passport, exercise accessories, headphones, keys, ID, credit cards, and more. The pouch lies flat but expands to 9" x 4" x 2" inches to accommodate your supplies. The band contains 4 loops for energy gels, making it an excellent choice for runners and athletes.

This belt is compatible with many popular phone models, including iPhone (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max); Samsung Galaxy (A10e, A20, A50, Fold, S10, S10 5G, S10+, S10e, S20, S20 Ultra, S20+); Google Pixel (3a, 3a XL, 4, 4XL, 4a, 4a 5G, 5). The 1" wide soft elastic belt prevents chafing, and it fits waist sizes of 28" through 44" comfortably. The sturdy buckle and construction make it suitable for even the most active user.

The SPIbelt Performance Belt is made in the USA and is a woman-owned company. It was designed and created by a runner who had other active lifestyle needs in mind. With its comfortable and secure design, you can carry your essentials with ease and focus on your activity. Whether you're going for a run, hitting the gym, or going on a hike, the SPIbelt Performance Belt has got you covered!

Pros

  • Expandable and low-profile pouch
  • Compatible with popular phone models
  • Soft elastic belt prevents chafing
  • Fits waist sizes of 28" through 44" comfortably
  • Sturdy buckle and construction
  • Made in the USA
  • Woman-owned company

2. Glukos Energy Liquid Gel 2oz Packets, 12 Count Tray, Lemon Lime Flavor

Looking for an energy boost during your hard workouts and racing? The TWICE THE ENERGY, TWICE AS FAST single-serve liquid gel pack is the perfect solution for you. It contains pure and clean ingredients, including glucose, water, electrolytes and natural flavors, without any byproducts like triglycerides and lactic acid. With TWICE THE ENERGY, TWICE AS FAST, you don't have to worry about upset stomach or bloating during activity.

This energy gel pack is packed with glucose for energy and sodium and potassium to support critical body function during hard workouts and racing. It contains 3X more potassium than other brands, which helps you avoid muscle cramps, brain fog and nausea, making it the perfect choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

TWICE THE ENERGY, TWICE AS FAST contains no fructose or sucrose, no artificial sweeteners or flavors, and no nasty chemicals. It's gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and vegan, making it a healthy and safe energy source for everyone.

Each pack of TWICE THE ENERGY, TWICE AS FAST contains 12 packets of liquid gel, each with 100 calories, making it a convenient energy source that's easy to take on the run.

Pros

  • Pure and clean ingredients
  • Packed with glucose, sodium, and potassium
  • Contains 3X more potassium than other brands
  • No fructose, sucrose, artificial sweeteners or flavors, and no nasty chemicals
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan
  • Convenient and easy to take on the run

3. Honey Stinger Energy Gel Pack For Peak Performance.

Looking for a quick, sustained energy boost? Look no further than Honey Stinger Gold Energy Gels. These grab-and-go gels are perfect for those on the go who need a quick and easy source of energy. With 24g of carbs per serving, they are the ideal portable fuel to help you keep up the pace.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, Honey Stinger Energy Gels are perfect for race day or any workout. They are easy to digest and contain quality ingredients like electrolytes and B vitamins to help replenish what you lose during exercise.

One of the things that sets Honey Stinger apart is their commitment to quality ingredients. These gels are made with simply honey, electrolytes, and B vitamins. They are non-GMO and gluten-free, so you can feel good about what you're putting into your body.

Honey Stinger Energy Gels have been proven to work for over 1,000 teams and collegiate programs. Whether you're a competitive athlete or just trying to reach your fitness goals, these gels will give you the energy you need to power through your workouts.

Pros

  • Contains 24g of carbs per serving for sustained energy
  • Made with quality ingredients like electrolytes and B vitamins
  • Portable and easy to digest, perfect for race day or any workout
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free

4. Honey Stinger Energy Gel: Acai Pomegranate Blast

Get a delicious combination of sweet and tart flavors in a 24-count box with these energy gels. Made for people who need a quick and sustained energy boost, these grab-and-go gels are easy to eat right from the package. With 24g carbs per serving and ingredients designed for quick uptake, these gels are the perfect fuel to keep you going without slowing you down. Whether you're a pace-setter, go-getter, or just looking for a quick energy boost, these energy gels are perfect for you.

Energy Gels are a must-have on race day. They are easy to digest and portable, making them perfect for activities such as running, biking, or scaling up your home gym workouts. You can take them with you in your gym bag or throw them in your pocket. These gels are made from high-quality ingredients such as USDA Organic, carbs that boost energy, potassium that helps replenish electrolytes after exercise, and a blend of natural sweeteners that replenish glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance.

Honey Stinger Energy Gels have helped over 1,000 teams and collegiate programs fuel their athletes. These energy-boosting carbs will work hard for everyone chasing their fitness goals. Buy Honey Stinger Energy Gels today and experience the benefits of sustained energy and improved endurance.

Pros

  • Contains a delicious combination of sweet and tart flavors
  • Made for people who need a quick and sustained energy boost
  • Easy to eat right from the package
  • Contains 24g carbs per serving
  • Ingredients designed for quick uptake
  • Perfect fuel to keep you going without slowing you down
  • Easy to digest and portable
  • Made from high-quality ingredients such as USDA Organic, carbs that boost energy, potassium that helps replenish electrolytes after exercise, and a blend of natural sweeteners that replenish glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance
  • Helped over 1,000 teams and collegiate programs fuel their athletes

5. Gu Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 8-Count, Strawberry Banana

The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is an essential product designed to help athletes perform their best. Each portable packet contains 100 calories and essential electrolytes that provide dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose. These two energy sources use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy, making it perfect for training or racing. To use, simply take one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity. This energy gel also contains branched-chain amino acids that help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue.

If you're looking for a flavor that's caffeine-free, vegan, and gluten-free, then the Strawberry Banana flavor is perfect for you. It contains 55mg of sodium and 35mg of potassium, which are essential electrolytes that help maintain proper fluid balance and prevent dehydration during exercise. With this energy gel, you can perform at your best without worrying about fatigue or dehydration.

Pros

  • Provides dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose for efficient absorption and lasting energy
  • Contains essential electrolytes to maintain proper fluid balance and prevent dehydration during exercise
  • Contains branched-chain amino acids that help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
  • Caffeine-free, vegan, and gluten-free Strawberry Banana flavor

6. Organic Strawberry Kiwi Energy Gel 24-Pack

Honey Stinger Energy Gels are a classic flavor combination of caffeine and carbohydrates that come in a 24-count box, making them ideal for those who need quick and sustained energy on the go. These grab-and-go caffeinated gels are perfect for anyone who is always on the move and needs an energy boost to keep them going. With 24g carbs per serving and 32mg caffeine, these energy gels are the perfect portable fuel to help you go the extra mile.

These energy gels are race-ready and easy to digest, making them a must-have on race day. They are also portable and can be taken with you while running, biking, or to scale up your home gym workouts. Honey Stinger Energy Gels are made with quality ingredients such as non-GMO, gluten-free, 32mg caffeine from green tea extract, potassium to help replenish electrolytes, and a blend of natural sweeteners that replenish glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance.

Moreover, Honey Stinger Energy Gels are proven to work. More than 1,000 teams & collegiate programs turn to Honey Stinger to fuel their athletes, but the energy-boosting carbs in Honey Stinger Energy Gels will work hard for everyone chasing their fitness goals. Whether you are a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, these energy gels are an excellent way to boost your energy levels and help you achieve your fitness goals.

Pros

  • Contains 24g of carbs per serving and 32mg caffeine, providing quick and sustained energy.
  • Made with non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients.
  • Contains potassium to help replenish electrolytes.
  • A blend of natural sweeteners replenishes glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance.
  • Portable and easy to digest, making them perfect for on-the-go use.

7. Hydrapak Softflask 150ml – Collapsible Trail Running Vest Soft Gel Flask Bottle – (150 Ml/5 Oz)

The Hydration Vest Compatible Flask is an ideal addition or replacement to your running vest, pack or belt pocket. It is designed to provide you with easy access to hydration and nutrition while on the go. The soft material of the flask conforms to any pocket and shrinks as you drink to reduce movement, making it easy to pack away when empty.

The flask has a high-flow nozzle that dispenses energy gels and other liquids with ease. It can hold up to 5+ servings, which makes it perfect for long distance runs. Additionally, the nozzle is easy to clean, ensuring that you can keep the flask hygienic throughout its lifespan.

Made of abrasive-resistant TPU, the vest-pack fit of the flask provides bounce-free stability while running. It also features a flexible flask shoulder that prevents chafing, ensuring that you stay comfortable throughout your run.

The Hydration Vest Compatible Flask is 100% BPA and PVC free, eliminating any risk of harmful chemicals in your drink. It has no weird taste, which means you can enjoy your drink without any unpleasant aftertaste.

Pros

  • Compatible with hydration vest, pack, or belt pocket
  • Collapsible flask that is easy to pack away when empty
  • High-flow nozzle designed to dispense energy gels and other liquids
  • Abrasive-resistant TPU material ensures durability
  • Flexible flask shoulder prevents chafing
  • 100% BPA and PVC free ensures no harmful chemicals or aftertaste

8. Boom Gel: 6 Fruity Flavors For Endurance Athletes

Boost your performance with Boom Nutrition's powerful endurance gel. Whether you're training for a race or competing on the big day, this gel provides athletes with an advantage by maximizing performance and boosting the body. With 26g of high carbs and only 2-3g of low sugar, this natural energy gel supplies endurance athletes with optimum strength and health. It's a gratifying quick delivery that keeps you going for longer periods of time.

Boom Nutrition believes in simplicity and purity. That's why their fruit-flavored energy gels are made with real fruit juices and purees for a refreshing blend of flavors and a perfectly smooth texture. Unlike other gels, Boom Nutrition's natural energy gels do not contain any artificial colors or sweeteners. They are made with pure and healthy ingredients that are suitable for most restrictive dietary needs. Designed by athletes, each gel pack provides a steady release of energy without any spikes or crashes, allowing you to crush your competition with ease.

Pros

  • Provides athletes with an advantage by maximizing performance and boosting the body
  • 26g of high carbs with only 2-3g of low sugar for optimum strength and health
  • Made with real fruit juices and purees for a refreshing blend of flavors and a perfectly smooth texture
  • Does not contain any artificial colors or sweeteners
  • Suitable for most restrictive dietary needs
  • Designed by athletes for a steady release of energy without any spikes or crashes

9. Gu Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 8-Count, Tri-Berry

The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is a specially formulated energy gel that is designed to help athletes perform at their best. Each portable packet contains 100 calories and essential electrolytes that provide a dual source of energy from maltodextrin and fructose. These two sources use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy, making it perfect for training or racing.

To use, simply take one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity. This will help provide a steady stream of energy to keep you going for longer. Additionally, the gel contains branched-chain amino acids, which help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue.

The Tri-Berry flavor contains 20mg of caffeine, 55mg of sodium, and 30mg of potassium. The gel is also vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible to a wide range of athletes with different dietary needs. Whether you're a professional athlete or just starting out, the Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is a great way to boost your performance and stay energized throughout your activity.

Pros

  • Contains essential electrolytes for lasting energy
  • Dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose for efficient absorption
  • Branched-chain amino acids help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
  • Tri-Berry flavor contains 20mg caffeine, 55mg sodium, and 30mg potassium
  • Vegan and gluten-free for accessibility to a wide range of athletes

10. Royal-D Energy Gels: Run, Ride, Refuel!

Royal-D Energy Gels are the perfect energy boost for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. With its special packaging design, you can easily take them with you wherever you go. The package contains 20-count slim disposable sachets with a hanging hole, making it easy for you to get your energy gel every time you need it. Whether you need running snacks, running energy, running fuel for athletes, running gel, energy chews for runners, energy gels running, sports gel, Royal-D Energy Gels has got you covered.

The orange-flavored Royal-D Energy Gels provide an instant boost of energy in just one shot. Simply tear a sachet and chew. It's that simple. You can use it as sports nutrition, workout gel, cycling supplements, sports nutrition endurance & energy chews & gels, gel packets for runners, and science in sports energy gel pack. The Royal-D Energy Gels are perfect for outdoor activities, and you can take them with you anywhere, anytime.

Royal-D Energy Gels give you an energy boost instantly with fast absorption, which means you don't need to wait for several hours for slow digestion. Whether you're starting activities or doing sports like running, cycling, or any other extreme outdoor sports, Royal-D Energy Gels unleash enough energy pack for you until you reach your goal. Just chew 15 minutes before starting activities or 30-45 minutes while doing sports.

Royal-D Energy Gels are designed for athletes who engage in tough activities, extreme outdoor sports, training, and racing. They are perfect as running gels fuel, energy gel marathon, endurance gels, energy gel packs. The gels contain Maltodextrin, which is easily digestible, absorbed rapidly activating metabolism for fast and sustained energy burn, combined with Magnesium and Potassium supporting the muscular system, helping you perform your best beyond limits.

Royal-D Energy Gels contain Vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, sodium, and amino acids that nourish your body and modulate all systems to ensure your body performs naturally and recovers from fatigue and tiredness after tough activities as sports nutrition supply, runners gel carb packs, perform gel, chews for runners, running gels, and chews, energy running gels, and gel chews. They are perfect for enhancing body recovery.

Pros

  • Comes in special packaging design for convenient travels
  • Instant energy boost with fast absorption
  • Designed for athletes engaging in tough activities
  • Contains Vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, sodium, and amino acids for body nourishment and recovery
  • Contains Maltodextrin, Magnesium, and Potassium for fast and sustained energy burn

Best Energy Gels For Running FAQs

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using energy gels for running?

Yes, there are potential side effects and risks associated with using energy gels for running. Energy gels are designed to provide a quick source of energy to runners during long distance runs. However, these gels contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine, which can have negative effects on the body.

Some of the potential side effects of using energy gels include gastrointestinal distress, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because the high sugar content can upset the stomach and lead to digestive issues. Additionally, energy gels can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can result in a crash later on.

Another risk associated with energy gels is overconsumption. Runners may be tempted to take multiple gels during a long race, but doing so can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. It's important for runners to follow the recommended guidelines for energy gel consumption and to stay hydrated throughout their run.

Overall, energy gels can be a helpful tool for runners during long distance races, but it's important to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with their use. Runners should consult with their doctor or a sports nutritionist to determine the best fueling strategy for their individual needs.

How do energy gels provide fuel and improve performance during a run?

Energy gels are a convenient and efficient way for runners to fuel up during long-distance runs. These gels are designed to provide a quick source of energy to the body, primarily in the form of carbohydrates. Energy gels contain a concentrated mixture of glucose, fructose, and maltodextrin, which are easily absorbed by the body and converted into energy.

During a run, the body relies on stored glycogen in the muscles and liver for energy. However, as the glycogen levels start to deplete, the body begins to feel fatigued, and performance starts to suffer. This is where energy gels come in handy. They provide a quick boost of energy, which helps to replenish the glycogen stores and delay fatigue.

Energy gels are also formulated with electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which help to maintain fluid balance in the body. This is particularly important during long-distance runs, where the body loses a lot of fluids through sweat. By replenishing the electrolytes, energy gels help to prevent dehydration and maintain performance.

Overall, energy gels are an excellent way to provide a quick source of energy and improve performance during a run. However, it's important to use them in moderation and in conjunction with a balanced diet and hydration plan.

How often should energy gels be consumed during a long distance run?

Energy gels are a popular choice among long-distance runners as they provide a quick source of carbohydrates and electrolytes, which are essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing dehydration. However, consuming energy gels in the right frequency is crucial to avoid any negative effects.

Typically, it is recommended to consume one energy gel every 45 minutes to an hour during long-distance runs. This frequency provides a steady stream of carbohydrates to the body, which helps maintain energy levels and prevent fatigue. However, it is important to note that the frequency of consumption may vary depending on the individual's body type, intensity of the run, and weather conditions.

It is also essential to stay hydrated while consuming energy gels. Drinking water or a sports drink alongside energy gels is vital to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte levels in the body.

In conclusion, consuming energy gels every 45 minutes to an hour during long-distance runs is recommended for maintaining energy levels and preventing fatigue. However, it is important to listen to your body and adjust the frequency of consumption accordingly. Proper hydration is also crucial for optimal performance during long-distance runs.

What are the benefits of using energy gels for running?

Energy gels are a popular supplement used by runners to enhance their performance during long runs, races, and training sessions. They are designed to provide a quick burst of energy and help runners maintain their pace for longer periods. The primary benefit of using energy gels for running is that they provide a convenient and efficient source of fuel for the body. They are easy to carry and consume, making them ideal for runners who do not want to carry bulky food items during their runs. Energy gels are also absorbed quickly by the body, allowing runners to feel the effects almost instantly. They contain carbohydrates, electrolytes, and sometimes caffeine, which can help to improve focus and reduce fatigue. Additionally, energy gels are available in a range of flavors, making them an enjoyable and tasty option for runners. Overall, energy gels can help runners to stay energized, hydrated, and focused during their runs, which can lead to improved performance and better results.

What are the best energy gels for running and how do they differ from each other?

Energy gels are a popular choice among runners to replenish energy levels during long runs or races. The best energy gels for running are those that provide a quick boost of carbohydrates and electrolytes, are easily digestible, and don't cause any stomach discomfort. Some popular options include GU Energy Gel, Clif Shot Energy Gel, PowerBar PowerGel, and Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel.

GU Energy Gel is known for its variety of flavors and caffeine options, while Clif Shot Energy Gel is made with organic ingredients and has a thinner consistency. PowerBar PowerGel is designed to be absorbed quickly and provides a steady release of energy, and Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel is made with honey instead of corn syrup for a more natural option.

When choosing the best energy gel for running, it's important to consider personal preferences and any dietary restrictions. It's also recommended to try different brands and flavors during training runs to determine what works best for individual needs.

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