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Best Energy Gels For Triathlon (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to boost your endurance and stay energized during a triathlon, energy gels may be the answer. These small, portable packets of carbohydrates and electrolytes are designed to be consumed on-the-go and can provide a quick burst of fuel to help you power through the race. However, before you buy any energy gel, there are a few important factors to consider.

First and foremost, it’s essential to read the ingredient label to make sure that the gel is safe for your body and provides the right kind of fuel for your needs. Many energy gels contain added caffeine or other stimulants, which can be helpful for some athletes but may cause negative side effects for others. Additionally, consider the amount of carbohydrates and electrolytes in the gel, as well as the recommended serving size and frequency of consumption.

Are you tired of hitting the dreaded “wall” during long-distance races? Are you looking for a convenient and effective way to keep your energy levels up during a triathlon? Energy gels for triathlon may be just what you need. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of these portable packets, as well as some tips for choosing the best option for your body and your race. With the right energy gel, you can power through the toughest courses and cross the finish line feeling strong and energized.

10 Best Energy Gels For Triathlon

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for providing fast-acting carbohydrates, performance and endurance support nutrition for athletes during running, cycling, and triathlon.
2
The product is ideal for athletes seeking a fast-acting carbohydrate boost to improve performance and endurance during running, cycling, or triathlon events.
3
The product is ideal for triathlon and marathon runners who need to carry their phone, bib number, hydration gels, and energy bars without bouncing.
4
Ideal for athletes and active individuals to carry water, phone, energy gels, and race number during marathon running, triathlon, cycling, or hiking.
5
The product is ideal for providing fast-acting carbohydrates and endurance sport nutrition for athletes in cycling, running, and triathlon.
6
This product is ideal for athletes participating in triathlons who need storage for energy gels during the race.
7
It is an ideal performance and endurance sport nutrition for athletes to consume during activities like running, cycling or triathlon.
8
Ideal for holding race bibs and energy gels during triathlons, marathons, running, and cycling events.
9
Ideal for carrying and dispensing sports nutrition liquid energy gel during cycle, run, triathlon, or marathon.
10
Ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a natural, gluten-free and caffeine-free energy boost before or during workouts.
This product is ideal for providing fast-acting carbohydrates, performance and endurance support nutrition for athletes during running, cycling, and triathlon.
The product is ideal for athletes seeking a fast-acting carbohydrate boost to improve performance and endurance during running, cycling, or triathlon events.
The product is ideal for triathlon and marathon runners who need to carry their phone, bib number, hydration gels, and energy bars without bouncing.
Ideal for athletes and active individuals to carry water, phone, energy gels, and race number during marathon running, triathlon, cycling, or hiking.
The product is ideal for providing fast-acting carbohydrates and endurance sport nutrition for athletes in cycling, running, and triathlon.
This product is ideal for athletes participating in triathlons who need storage for energy gels during the race.
It is an ideal performance and endurance sport nutrition for athletes to consume during activities like running, cycling or triathlon.
Ideal for holding race bibs and energy gels during triathlons, marathons, running, and cycling events.
Ideal for carrying and dispensing sports nutrition liquid energy gel during cycle, run, triathlon, or marathon.
Ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a natural, gluten-free and caffeine-free energy boost before or during workouts.

1. Fast Fuel For Endurance Athletes: Isotonic Energy Gel

Looking for a fast-acting and long-lasting energy gel? Look no further than Sis Energy Gels! With 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates per serving, these gels are perfect for endurance sports like cycling and running. The recommended intake is 60-90g of carbohydrates per hour of exercise. The isotonic formulation means that you don't need to consume extra water with these gels, which can help you avoid gastrointestinal distress and focus on your performance.

One of the best things about Sis Energy Gels is their low sugar content. With only 1g or less of sugar per serving, you can avoid the crash associated with high-sugar energy products. The low-sugar formulation provides effective, sustained energy without the unwanted side effects.

In addition to their performance benefits, Sis Energy Gels are also enjoyable to consume. Unlike other energy gels on the market, these gels have a light, thin consistency that makes them easy to take on the go with minimal interruption to your training.

Lastly, Sis Energy Gels are Informed Sport approved. This means that they have undergone rigorous testing for banned substances, making them the nutrition partner of choice for world champions and Olympians, including athletes from USA Cycling, USA Triathlon, Canyon-SRAM, and Team Ineos.

Pros

  • Contains 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates per serving
  • Isotonic formulation means no need for extra water
  • Low sugar content avoids the crash associated with high-sugar products
  • Light, thin consistency is easy to consume on the go
  • Informed Sport approved for banned substance testing

2. Sport Energy Boost – Tutti Frutti Flavor

The Science in Sport (SiS) Energy Gels are perfect for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to achieve their fueling needs during cycling, running, and other endurance sports. This gel contains 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates that provide fast and long-lasting energy to power up your performance. It is recommended to consume 60-90g of carbohydrates per hour of exercise for optimal results.

The isotonic formulation of SiS Energy Gels makes it easier to digest and absorb, and you don't need to consume any extra water. This feature helps to avoid gastrointestinal distress and allows you to focus on your performance without any interruptions. Additionally, the gels contain only 1g or less of sugar, ensuring that you won't experience any crashes while exercising.

SiS Energy Gels have a light and thin consistency that makes them easy to consume on the go. Unlike other energy gels that have a thick and sticky texture, SiS Energy Gels come in an enjoyable taste and texture. Moreover, the product is approved by Informed Sport, which means it has passed the world-class approach to banned substance testing. This feature makes SiS Energy Gels a nutrition partner of choice for world champions and Olympians, including athletes at USA cycling, USA triathlon, canyon-sram, and team ineos.

Pros

  • Contains 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates for fast and long-lasting energy
  • Isotonic formulation makes it easier to digest and absorb
  • No need to consume extra water
  • Low sugar formulation prevents crashes while exercising
  • Light and thin consistency for easy consumption on the go
  • Informed Sport approved

3. Ultimate Black Racing Belt By Fitletic

The Fitletic waist pack is the perfect companion for runners and athletes during training or race days. It comes with a phone holder pouch that fits various phone models such as the iPhone 14, 13 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy Note20 S22 Ultra, S21, Google Pixel 6, and other similar-sized phones. The protective case can accommodate devices up to 6.75in x 3.5in (17.3cm x 9cm), ensuring that your phone and other valuables are secure while you run.

This Ultimate I race belt features six loops to hold your energy gels and bib toggles to keep your race number in place. It can fit popular gel brands like Gu, Clif, and Spring. However, it cannot hold SIS gels. Its ergonomic design contours to your body and will not move or bounce while running, giving you the freedom to focus on your performance.

The waist pack's ultra-soft dual-adjust belt can fit waist circumferences ranging from 24in to 42in (61cm to 107cm). It is made of lightweight yet durable water-resistant materials that keep your phone and other essentials dry. Whether you're running a 5k, 10k, half marathon, triathlon, Ironman, or an endurance race, this runners belt has got you covered.

Pros

  • Can fit various phone models and protect devices up to 6.75in x 3.5in (17.3cm x 9cm)
  • Features six loops for holding energy gels and bib toggles to keep race numbers in place
  • Ergonomic design contours to body and won't move or bounce while running
  • Ultra-soft dual-adjust belt can fit waist circumference from 24in to 42in (61cm to 107cm)
  • Made of lightweight yet durable water-resistant materials to keep essentials dry

Cons

  • – Does not fit SIS gels

4. Fithydrate Belt: Stay Fueled & Connected On-The-Go.

The Hydration Running Belt is an ideal accessory for active runners and professional athletes for training or race days. This belt comes with a 12-ounce water bottle and four loops to hold your energy gels, ensuring that you stay hydrated and fueled during your workout sessions. The water bottle is easy to access and can be rapidly removed from the holster or holder, and all you need to do to hydrate is simply squeeze the bottle to let the water out, eliminating the need to open the bottle with your teeth.

The belt features a large pouch that is roomy enough to fit your phone, car or house keys, ID, and credit card. The pouch dimensions are 8in x 4in (20cm x 10cm), and it can easily accommodate iPhone 12 / 13 Pro Max, Samsung S22 Ultra, Google Pixel 6, and other similar-sized devices. Moreover, the pouch is water-resistant and ensures that your belongings stay dry during your workout.

The Race Belt has several additional features that make it a perfect choice for runners. It comes with silicon grippers that keep the belt on your waist and prevent any bounce, even during intense workouts. The bib toggles hold the race number securely, while the reflective accents ensure that you remain visible during night runs. The belt is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Fitletic's running gear and accessories are made by runners for runners, ensuring that you get the best quality products designed to meet your specific needs. This belt is convenient for active men and women with a passion for exercise, staying healthy, and outdoor activities.

Pros

  • 12-ounce water bottle and four loops for energy gels
  • Large pouch that can fit a phone, keys, ID, and credit card
  • Easy-to-access water bottle that can be rapidly removed from the holster
  • Water-resistant pouch that keeps your belongings dry
  • Silicon grippers that prevent any bounce during intense workouts
  • Reflective accents for visibility during night runs
  • Lightweight and durable

5. Sis Energy Gel Pack: Fast Fuel For Athletes.

SIS Energy Gels are the perfect fueling choice for cycling, running, and all endurance activities. Each gel contains 22g of quick digesting carbs to provide fast-acting and long-lasting energy for those on the go. It is recommended to consume 60-90g of carbs per hour during exercise.

Unlike other gels, SIS Energy Gels have an isotonic formula that doesn't require any additional water for digestion. This means that there will be no digestive distress, such as vomiting, cramps, or worse. The low sugar formulation of the gels provides effective and sustained energy, with only 1g or less of sugar in each gel to keep energy levels stable.

The gels have a simple taste and a light, drinkable consistency, making them easy to consume during exercise. Additionally, SIS Energy Gels are free of banned substances, ensuring that they are safe and clean nutrition sources for athletes. Informed Sport, our world-class partner, ensures that every single SIS product is free of any banned substances. This has made us the trusted nutrition source for world champions and Olympians, including athletes from USA cycling, USA Triathlon, Canyon-Sram, and Tour de France champions Team Ineos.

Pros

  • Contains 22g of quick digesting carbs for fast-acting and long-lasting energy
  • Isotonic formula doesn't require additional water for digestion
  • Low sugar formulation provides effective and sustained energy
  • Simple taste and light, drinkable consistency
  • Free of banned substances, ensuring safe and clean nutrition for athletes

6. Sport Endurance Energy Gel Pack.

The world's first isotonic gel that delivers 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates effectively for a quick supply of energy during exercise is now available. This gel helps athletes achieve their fueling needs in cycling, running, and other endurance activities. It is designed to be consumed without water to avoid bloating and other digestive problems that may arise from over-drinking.

Depleting carbohydrate stores during exercise is known to cause fatigue. However, delivering additional carbohydrates during exercise improves performance, race time, and delays the onset of fatigue. With only 1g or less of sugar per gel, this gel keeps your energy levels stable, preventing crashes.

The gel comes in a light, drinkable consistency, unlike other products that have a thick, sticky texture. It provides the boost you need to finish the race without leaving an unpleasant aftertaste. Additionally, it is free of banned substances, triple-tested, and Informed Sport Certified, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards and is safe for use by athletes and professionals alike.

Pros

  • Delivers 22g of fast-acting carbohydrates for a quick supply of energy during exercise
  • Can be consumed without water to avoid bloating and digestive problems
  • Provides additional carbohydrates to improve performance, race time, and delay the onset of fatigue
  • Contains 1g or less of sugar per gel to keep energy levels stable and prevent crashes
  • Has a light, drinkable consistency with no unpleasant aftertaste
  • Free of banned substances, triple-tested, and Informed Sport Certified for safety

7. Rj-Sport Energy Gel Belt For Triathlon & Running.

Running a race can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to holding the race number and energy bars. With this race belt bib holder, you can save yourself from damaging your expensive running clothes with safety pins. The bib holder holds your number and energy bars firmly, allowing you to concentrate on your game.

The belt is designed to fit different body sizes, ensuring its availability even if you gain or lose weight. The adjustable waist belt is soft, elastic, and comfortable, with a length that can be adjusted between 26'' to 35.4'', and can be stretched to around 70''. The navy triathlon race belt is made of 100% polyester and is lightweight, adjustable, elastic, and stretchy, making it barely noticeable during a race.

The belt has six loops on each side that can be used to attach various sports food. In long-distance challenges, being able to take energy supplies can be a game-changer. Additionally, the belt is ideal for all kinds of running events, including triathlons, marathons, and cycling. It can also be used for normal jogging or biking when you feel like taking energy gels with you.

Pros

  • Prevents damage to expensive running clothes
  • Adjustable waist belt fits different body sizes
  • Lightweight, soft, elastic, and stretchy
  • Six loops on each side to attach various sports food
  • Ideal for different running events and activities

8. Sportease Refillable Energy Gel Flask

The Energy Flask is a small, convenient gel flask that is perfect for athletes who want to consume energy gels during their workouts or races. It is easy to use and easy to clean, eliminating the need for individual gel packets. With this flask, you can consume as much or as little as you need, as often as you want.

The wide mouth of the Energy Flask makes it easy to fill and simple to clean, and it is dishwasher safe. It also has molded finger holds on one side for a secure grip. The secure cap ensures that the flask stays closed and does not spill.

The Energy Flask is perfect for athletes who want to save money and reduce waste. It can be used to create DIY sports fuel, allowing you to mix your own gel mixtures with maple syrup, honey, coffee, Nutella, and more. By eliminating individual gel packets, it is better for the environment.

This compact flask is only about 4" tall and holds 110 ml (3.5oz) capacity. It is semi-rigid and squeezable, and easily fits in small places like a cycling jersey pocket, bike frame bags, running fuel belt, hip pack, ski pack, hiking bag, summit pack, or hydration pack.

Pros

  • Easy to use and clean
  • Eliminates the need for individual gel packets
  • Wide mouth makes it easy to fill and clean
  • Molded finger holds on one side for a secure grip
  • Can be used to create DIY sports fuel
  • Better for the environment by eliminating individual gel packets
  • Compact and easy to fit in small places

9. Organic Fruit Energy Gel For Athletic Performance

The Honey Stinger Energy Gels are a classic fruit blend that comes in a 24-count box. These grab-and-go energy gels are perfect for individuals who need quick, sustained energy as they can be eaten right from the package. With 24g of carbs per serving and ingredients intended for quick uptake, these energy gels are suitable for pace-setters and go-getters who need a quick energy boost. They are portable, easy to digest, and a must-have on race day, making them ideal for individuals who are always on the go. You can throw them in your gym bag or take them with you while running, biking, or doing your home gym workouts.

The Honey Stinger Energy Gels are made from quality ingredients that are USDA organic. They contain carbs that boost energy, potassium that helps to replenish electrolytes post-exercise, and a blend of natural sweeteners that replenishes glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance. With more than 1,000 teams and collegiate programs relying on Honey Stinger to fuel their athletes, these energy-boosting carbs will work hard for everyone who is chasing their fitness goals.

Pros

  • Contains quality ingredients that are USDA organic
  • Provides quick, sustained energy and can be eaten right from the package
  • Portable and easy to digest, making them perfect for individuals who are always on the go
  • The perfect energy boost to throw in your gym bag or take with you while running and biking
  • Contains carbs that boost energy and potassium that helps to replenish electrolytes post-exercise
  • A blend of natural sweeteners replenishes glycogen stores, improving the capacity for endurance
  • More than 1,000 teams and collegiate programs rely on Honey Stinger to fuel their athletes

Best Energy Gels For Triathlon FAQs

Are there any potential side effects of consuming energy gels during a triathlon race?

Yes, there are potential side effects of consuming energy gels during a triathlon race. Energy gels are designed to provide a quick source of energy to athletes during endurance events. However, they contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, dehydration, and a rapid increase in heart rate.

Consuming too many energy gels can also lead to a crash in energy levels, as the body struggles to metabolize the high amounts of sugar. In some cases, athletes may experience a sugar rush followed by a sudden drop in energy levels, which can negatively impact their performance.

To avoid potential side effects, it is important to consume energy gels in moderation and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. It is also recommended to try different brands and flavors of energy gels during training to determine which ones work best for your body.

Overall, energy gels can be a useful tool for athletes during a triathlon race, but it is important to use them wisely and to be aware of the potential side effects.

How do energy gels compare to other forms of fuel, such as sports drinks or solid foods, for triathletes?

Energy gels are a popular form of fuel for triathletes due to their convenient and portable nature. Compared to sports drinks and solid foods, energy gels offer a quick and easy source of energy that can be easily consumed during a race or training session.

Sports drinks, on the other hand, are often consumed during longer training sessions or races as they provide a more sustained source of energy. They also contain electrolytes that help to replenish fluids lost through sweat.

Solid foods can be a good option for longer races, but they can be difficult to consume during intense exercise due to their bulky nature. They also take longer to digest, which can lead to discomfort or gastrointestinal issues.

Overall, the choice of fuel depends on the individual athlete and their personal preferences. Some triathletes may prefer energy gels for their convenience, while others may prefer sports drinks or solid foods for their sustained energy release. It's important for triathletes to experiment with different forms of fuel during training to determine what works best for them during a race.

How often should energy gels be consumed during a triathlon race?

The frequency of energy gel consumption during a triathlon race depends on various factors, such as the individual's body weight, the intensity of the race, and the duration of the event. Typically, it is recommended that athletes consume one energy gel every 45 minutes to an hour during a triathlon race. However, it is essential to remember that every person's body is different, and what works for one athlete may not work for another. It is crucial to experiment with different energy gel consumption schedules during training to find the right balance for your body. Additionally, it is essential to stay hydrated throughout the race, as energy gels can be dehydrating due to their high sugar content. Adequate nutrition and hydration are vital for peak performance during a triathlon race, and it is essential to find the right balance and schedule for your body to ensure a successful race.

What are the benefits of using energy gels during a triathlon race?

Energy gels are popular among triathletes for their numerous benefits during a race. These gels are a concentrated source of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and caffeine that provide a quick burst of energy to the body. The benefits of using energy gels during a triathlon race include improved performance, sustained energy levels, reduced muscle fatigue, and better hydration.

During a triathlon race, the body requires a constant supply of energy to sustain the physical activity. Energy gels provide an immediate source of energy that helps improve performance and keeps the body going. The carbohydrates in the gels are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, providing an instant energy boost.

Energy gels also help maintain sustained energy levels throughout the race. The carbohydrates in the gels are absorbed gradually, providing a steady supply of energy to the body. This helps prevent the sudden drop in energy levels that can occur during the race.

Another benefit of using energy gels is that they help reduce muscle fatigue. The electrolytes in the gels help maintain the body's fluid balance, preventing dehydration and cramping. The caffeine in some gels also helps reduce muscle fatigue and improve focus and concentration.

In summary, energy gels offer numerous benefits to triathletes during a race. They provide an immediate source of energy, maintain sustained energy levels, reduce muscle fatigue, and improve hydration. It is important to note, however, that energy gels should be used in moderation and in conjunction with a balanced diet and proper hydration.

What types of energy gels are best for triathletes, and what ingredients should be avoided?

For triathletes, energy gels are a popular choice to quickly replenish energy during races. However, not all energy gels are created equal, and some may contain ingredients that can cause digestive issues or impact performance.

The best energy gels for triathletes are those that contain a balance of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and caffeine. Carbohydrates provide the necessary energy to continue racing, while electrolytes help to regulate fluid balance and prevent cramping. Caffeine can also be beneficial for improved focus and endurance.

When selecting energy gels, it's important to avoid ingredients that may cause digestive issues or impact performance. These include high amounts of sugar alcohols, which can cause stomach upset, and artificial sweeteners, which may affect insulin levels and cause energy crashes.

Additionally, triathletes should also consider the texture and taste of energy gels, as they will need to consume them quickly and easily during a race. Overall, the best energy gels for triathletes are those that provide a balance of nutrients and are easy to consume without causing digestive issues or impacting performance.

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