By Kyle Johnston 
Energy gels are a key tool for endurance athletes, providing a quick boost of carbs, electrolytes, and caffeine to keep you going when fatigue sets in. In this review, I’ll explore which gels deliver and which fall short, helping you find the best option for your performance needs.
High 5
High 5 Energy Gels are a well-regarded choice among endurance athletes, particularly for their simple and effective formula. Each gel typically provides around 23g of carbohydrates, primarily from maltodextrin. This carb content offers a quick release of energy, making them ideal for mid-race or workout consumption when athletes need an immediate boost to sustain performance.
One of the key features of High 5 gels is their light, non-sticky texture, which makes them easy to swallow and digest even when you’re on the move. The flavors are fruit-based and not overly sweet, with natural juice providing a refreshing taste. The gels also come in both caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions, giving athletes flexibility depending on their energy needs.
In terms of performance, High 5 gels are designed to be gentle on the stomach, minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal issues that some other gels can cause. They are also free from artificial sweeteners and colors, which adds to their appeal for those who prefer cleaner ingredients. While the 23g of carbs per gel may be on the lower end for some athletes with higher energy demands, they are effective when used consistently over the course of a long event.
Overall, High 5 Energy Gels are a reliable, affordable option for endurance athletes, offering solid carb content, easy digestion, and a variety of flavors to suit different preferences.
Science In Sport (SIS)
SIS (Science in Sport) Energy Gels are a popular choice for endurance athletes, known for their unique isotonic formula. Each gel provides approximately 22g of carbohydrates, primarily from maltodextrin, which delivers a quick and sustained energy boost during exercise. The isotonic nature of these gels means they can be consumed without additional water, reducing the risk of bloating or dehydration often associated with other energy gels.
One of the standout features of SIS gels is their light consistency, which makes them very easy to swallow and digest, even during intense activity. The flavors are generally mild and not overly sweet, appealing to athletes who prefer a more subtle taste. SIS also offers a variety of options, including caffeine-infused gels for an extra boost of focus and energy when needed.
While their carb content is slightly lower than some competing brands, SIS gels make up for it with their ease of use and gentleness on the stomach. They are well-suited for both beginner and seasoned endurance athletes, particularly during long-distance runs, cycling, or triathlons. Overall, SIS Energy Gels are a reliable, easy-to-consume option that delivers quick energy without the need for additional hydration.
Kinetica
Kinetica Energy Gels are a reliable option for endurance athletes who need quick and sustained energy during intense workouts. Each gel delivers around 20g of carbohydrates, sourced primarily from maltodextrin and fructose. This combination helps ensure a fast yet steady release of energy, making them suitable for maintaining performance during prolonged exercise. The lower carb content compared to other gels might mean athletes will need to consume them more frequently, depending on their fueling strategy.
The gels have a smooth, semi-thick texture, making them easy to consume while on the go. The flavor options are generally pleasant, though a bit on the sweet side, which might not appeal to everyone during extended use. They also offer both caffeinated and non-caffeinated varieties, which gives athletes flexibility based on their energy and focus needs.
Kinetica gels are known for being gentle on the stomach, with no artificial colors or preservatives, which is a plus for those prone to digestive issues during exercise. While they may not stand out as much as higher-carb options, they offer a balanced, easily digestible energy source for moderate endurance activities.
Maurten
Maurten Energy Gels have gained a strong reputation among endurance athletes for their innovative hydrogel technology and high carbohydrate content. Each gel provides an impressive 25g of carbohydrates, derived from a glucose and fructose blend. This 0.8:1 ratio maximizes carb absorption, making it particularly effective for sustained energy during long races or intense training sessions.
The gel’s hydrogel structure allows the carbohydrates to bypass the stomach and be absorbed more efficiently in the intestines, reducing the likelihood of stomach upset that often plagues athletes during heavy exertion. Unlike traditional gels, Maurten gels have a more neutral flavor, almost tasteless, which appeals to those who get flavor fatigue or prefer a more understated taste during endurance events.
Their texture is smooth but slightly thicker than isotonic gels, which can take some getting used to but remains easy to consume. The gels are also free from artificial additives, preservatives, and colors, making them a cleaner option for athletes concerned with what they’re putting in their bodies. Although they are pricier compared to many other brands, Maurten gels offer a premium fuel source that’s favored by elite runners, cyclists, and triathletes due to their efficient energy delivery and digestive comfort.
Precision
In conclusion, choosing the right energy gel is crucial for maintaining your performance and endurance during workouts and races. Each brand offers unique benefits, from carb content and ingredients to flavor and texture, so finding the one that best suits your needs is key. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, easy digestion, or clean ingredients, the options reviewed here provide solid choices for every athlete. Ultimately, the right energy gel can be the difference between hitting your wall and pushing through to achieve your goals.
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