Type to search. Use arrow keys to navigate results. Press enter to view all results.
Already have a favorite fuel? Great. This sampler isn't just for beginners. We picked products with different textures, carbohydrate amounts and fueling approaches so you can experiment and maybe discover a new go-to.
What makes it different: Honey Stinger's waffle sandwiches a honey-infused filling between two thin waffles. The carbohydratesincluding honeyare designed to provide convenient energy before or during activity.
Why we picked it: Sometimes you just want to eat something instead of squeezing down another gel. The soft, thin waffle gives you a completely different texture and fueling experience while still being portable enough for a run, ride or hike.
Worth trying if: You're experiencing gel fatigue, prefer solid food, or want to add some variety to a longer effort.
What makes it different: Skratch was started after exercise physiologist Dr. Allen Lim began developing sports nutrition using real ingredients for professional cyclists. Their Energy Chews continue that philosophy, using real fruit for flavor and a softer texture.
Why we picked it: Chews give you flexibility. Take a few at a time instead of committing to an entire gel, and spread your carbohydrates throughout your workout.
Worth trying if: You like gummies, want bite-sized fuel, or prefer eating smaller amounts more frequently.
What makes it different: Hma takes a different approach to the traditional sports gel by combining fruit pure with finely ground chia seeds. The result is a smooth, food-like consistency that's noticeably different from many syrupy traditional gels.
Why we picked it: Texture can be the deciding factor with gels. Hma gives you an opportunity to see whether a more natural, fruit-forward gel works better for you.
Worth trying if: You've tried traditional gels and thought, I like the idea of a gel...just not that texture.
What makes it different: Science in Sport's GO Isotonic Gel provides 22g of carbohydrates and uses an isotonic formula. It's designed to be consumed without needing additional water alongside it.
Why we picked it: It's a noticeably different gel experiencethinner and easier to consume while moving than many concentrated gels.
Worth trying if: You don't like thick gels, don't always have water available when you fuel, or want something easy to take at race pace.
What makes it different: Carbs Fuel keeps this one deliberately simple: 25g carbohydrates, 100 calories and 65mg sodium in a compact packet. It has just seven ingredients, uses a 2:1 glucose-to-fructose carbohydrate blend and has a thin consistency with a subtle citrus flavor.
Why we picked it: There's something appealing about fuel that's this straightforward. You know you're getting 25 grams of carbs per packet, which also makes calculating your hourly intake really easy.
Worth trying if: You want simple ingredients, easy carb counting, a thinner gel consistency or an affordable everyday training fuel.
What makes it different: Maurten's Solid 160 is an oat- and rice-based bar providing 40g of carbohydrates. It's divided down the middle, so each half provides 20g. Maurten calls it a texture reseta way to get carbohydrates while taking a break from gels and drinks.
Why we picked it: Maurten is well known in endurance fueling, but you don't necessarily have to use a gel to incorporate Maurten into your strategy. This gives you a chewable, higher-carb option, particularly useful around longer, lower-to-moderate intensity efforts.
Worth trying if: You're going long, want a break from sweet gels, like solid fuel or want an easy way to keep track of your carbohydrate intake.
What makes it different: Tailwind takes another approach entirely: instead of carrying separate food and fuel, carbohydrates and electrolytes are mixed into your water and consumed gradually while you move.
Why we picked it: Some athletes love gels. Others would much rather sip their carbohydrates. We wanted the sampler to give you the opportunity to find out which camp you're in.
Worth trying if: You struggle to eat while exercising, prefer sipping fuel gradually, or want to experiment with getting carbohydrates and electrolytes from your bottle.
Don't judge sports nutrition by what works for somebody else. Test it during training.
Pay attention to:
Taste • Texture • Ease of use • How your stomach feels • Energy • How easy it is to carry
You might discover that you love gels for racing but solids on long runs. Or chews during easy miles and liquid fuel when you're working hard.
That's the point.