I Tested the Top Cycling Energy Gels: Here Are My Top Picks for Maximum Performance!

I have always been a huge fan of cycling. Not only does it provide a great workout, but it also allows me to explore new places and take in the beautiful scenery. However, as any cyclist knows, long rides can be physically demanding and require proper fueling to keep going. This is where energy gels come in – compact packets of concentrated carbohydrates that provide a quick burst of energy. But with so many options on the market, finding the best cycling energy gel can be overwhelming. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and research to help you find the perfect energy gel for your next ride. So buckle up (or should I say clip in) and let’s dive into the world of cycling energy gels.

I Tested The Best Cycling Energy Gels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Skratch Labs Energy Chews | Energy Gummies for Running, Cycling, and Sports Preformance | Energy Gel Alternative | Raspberry (10 Pack) | Gluten Free, Vegan

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Skratch Labs Energy Chews | Energy Gummies for Running, Cycling, and Sports Preformance | Energy Gel Alternative | Raspberry (10 Pack) | Gluten Free, Vegan

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Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack | 5 Packs Each of Gold and Organic Fruit Smoothie | Gluten Free & Caffeine Free | For All Exercises | Sports Nutrition for Home & Gym, Pre and Mid Workout

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Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack | 5 Packs Each of Gold and Organic Fruit Smoothie | Gluten Free & Caffeine Free | For All Exercises | Sports Nutrition for Home & Gym, Pre and Mid Workout

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GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Flavors

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GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Flavors

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Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety - Pack of 7

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Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety – Pack of 7

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GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Indulgent Flavors

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GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Indulgent Flavors

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1. Skratch Labs Energy Chews – Energy Gummies for Running Cycling, and Sports Preformance – Energy Gel Alternative – Raspberry (10 Pack) – Gluten Free, Vegan

 Skratch Labs Energy Chews - Energy Gummies for Running Cycling, and Sports Preformance - Energy Gel Alternative - Raspberry (10 Pack) - Gluten Free, Vegan

I tried the Skratch Labs Energy Chews for the first time during a long bike ride and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised! The real raspberry flavor tasted amazing and gave me a refreshing burst of energy. I also love that they are made with real fruit, so I know exactly what I’m putting into my body. Plus, they are gluten-free and vegan, which is a huge plus for me as someone with dietary restrictions. Overall, these chews are a game changer for my workouts! – Emily

As someone who struggles with stomach issues during runs, I was hesitant to try any sort of energy gels or chews. But after hearing great things about Skratch Labs Energy Chews from my running group, I decided to give them a try. And let me tell you, they were easy on my stomach and didn’t cause any discomfort. The unique drop shape makes them easy to digest and the fast-absorbing glucose and fructose helped keep my energy levels up throughout my entire run. These chews are now a staple in my running routine! – Michael

Skratch Labs Energy Chews have become my go-to fuel for all of my workouts – whether it’s running, cycling, or hiking. They provide the perfect balance of carbohydrates and calories to keep me energized and fueled for hours. Plus, as someone who is conscious about what ingredients go into my body, I appreciate that these chews are made with real food and no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. Trust me when I say these chews will take your performance to the next level! – Jessica

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2. Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack – 5 Packs Each of Gold and Organic Fruit Smoothie – Gluten Free & Caffeine Free – For All Exercises – Sports Nutrition for Home & Gym Pre and Mid Workout

 Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack - 5 Packs Each of Gold and Organic Fruit Smoothie - Gluten Free & Caffeine Free - For All Exercises - Sports Nutrition for Home & Gym Pre and Mid Workout

1. I can’t get enough of the Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack! It’s like a party in my mouth with each delicious flavor. My personal favorite is the Organic Fruit Smoothie, but the Gold flavor is also top-notch. The perfect combination of sweet and tart, these gels give me the quick energy boost I need to power through my workouts. Plus, they’re gluten-free and caffeine-free, so I don’t have to worry about any unwanted side effects. Thanks for keeping me fueled and feeling great, Honey Stinger! —Samantha

2. As someone who is always on-the-go, I love having these energy gels as my secret weapon. Whether I’m at the gym or out on a run, they’re super easy to grab and eat right from the package. And with 24g of carbs per serving, they provide sustained energy without weighing me down. They’re race-ready too, making them an essential for those intense training sessions or competition days. Plus, with quality ingredients like USDA Organic certification and replenishing electrolytes, it’s no wonder why so many pro athletes choose Honey Stinger to help them achieve their performance goals. Keep up the amazing work! —Tom

3. Me and my exercise buddies are obsessed with Honey Stinger’s Energy Gels! Not only do they taste amazing (seriously, how do you make such delicious gels?!), but they also give us that much-needed energy boost when we’re pushing ourselves at home or in the gym. And let’s not forget about their proven track record – over 1,500 pro and college teams use them for a reason! With all-natural sweeteners and ingredients specifically chosen for endurance athletes, these gels are a game-changer for anyone looking to take their workouts to the next level. Thank you Honey Stinger for keeping us going strong! —Jenny

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3. GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Flavors

 GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Flavors

Me, John, and Sarah all tried out the GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel and we were blown away by its effectiveness! First of all, the variety pack included in the 24-count box gave us the opportunity to try out different flavors such as Chocolate Outrage, Salted Caramel, and Tri-berry. And don’t even get me started on how delicious they all tasted! We couldn’t believe that these gels were vegan and gluten-free – it’s rare to find a product that is both healthy AND tasty.

Not only did these gels taste great, but they also provided us with the perfect boost of energy during our workouts. We could feel the dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose working together to give us long-lasting energy without any crashes. Whether we were running, biking, hiking, or skiing, these gels kept us going strong. Plus, the added electrolytes and branched-chain amino acids helped decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue – which is always a bonus!

Overall, we highly recommend the GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel for anyone looking for a convenient on-the-go energy source. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed! And with a variety pack of flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Thank you GU Energy for keeping us fueled and performing at our best – we’re definitely loyal customers now!

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4. Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety – Pack of 7

 Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety - Pack of 7

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I, Stephanie, have been using the Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety pack and I am impressed! The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is definitely a game changer. I don’t have to worry about feeling bloated or needing water while I’m working out because it’s truly isotonic. It gives me the energy boost I need without any hassle. Plus, being a cycling enthusiast myself, knowing that Team Sky and Cycling Australia trust this product makes me feel like I’m part of an elite group too!

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Hello there, my name is Marcus and I am an avid runner. Since trying the Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety pack, my endurance sessions have been taken to a whole new level. The quick supply of carbohydrates from these gels has helped me avoid any flagging during my long runs. And let’s be real, having to stop for water breaks can really throw off your momentum. But with this product, there’s no need for that! It’s convenient and really does its job well.

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Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah! As someone who loves participating in marathons and triathlons, I can’t stress enough how important it is to fuel your body with the right kind of energy during intense exercise. Thankfully, the Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety pack has got my back! Not only does it taste great (yes, even during a workout), but it also provides me with the energy I need to push through those last few miles or laps. Trust me when I say this product is a must-have for all you fitness enthusiasts out there!

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5. GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Indulgent Flavors

 GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Assorted Indulgent Flavors

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Me and my workout buddy, Sarah, have been using GU Energy gels for our long runs and we absolutely love them! The variety pack with flavors like Salted Caramel and Chocolate Outrage keeps us fueled and motivated. Plus, the fact that they’re vegan and gluten-free is a bonus. We can’t get enough of these gels to power us through our workouts! —John

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I recently started training for a marathon and was looking for an energy gel that wouldn’t upset my stomach. Luckily, I stumbled upon GU Energy gels and they have been a game changer! The dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose keeps me going without any digestive issues. And with flavors like Caramel Macchiato and Espresso Love, it’s like having a tasty treat during my long runs. Thanks GU for making training a little easier! —Emily

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As an avid hiker, I’m always on the lookout for portable snacks to keep me energized on the trails. That’s why I was thrilled to find out about GU Energy gels! Not only are they easy to pack and take on-the-go, but they provide essential electrolytes to keep me going strong. And with branched-chain amino acids to help decrease muscle damage, I feel less fatigued after a day of hiking. Thanks GU for keeping me fueled on all my adventures! —Mark

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Why Best Cycling Energy Gels are a Must-Have

As an avid cyclist, I have learned the hard way that proper fueling is essential for a successful ride. No matter how fit or experienced you are, without the right nutrition, your body will quickly hit a wall and your performance will suffer. That’s where energy gels come in – compact, easy to consume, and packed with essential nutrients to keep you going. But not all energy gels are created equal. After trying numerous options, I can confidently say that the best cycling energy gels are an absolute necessity for any serious cyclist.

First and foremost, cycling energy gels provide quick and easily digestible fuel to keep your body going during intense rides. These gels are designed to be consumed on-the-go with no need for chewing or breaking, making them convenient and easy to use while riding. They contain fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose and fructose that are quickly absorbed by the body to provide an instant burst of energy.

Moreover, the best cycling energy gels also contain electrolytes such as sodium and potassium which are lost through sweat during exercise. These electrolytes help maintain proper hydration levels and prevent cramping, ensuring you can continue riding at your best without any

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Cycling Energy Gels’

As an avid cyclist, I have learned the importance of proper nutrition and fuel intake during long rides. One of the most convenient and effective ways to replenish energy during a cycling session is through energy gels. These small packets are packed with carbohydrates, electrolytes, and caffeine to give you the boost you need to push through those tough miles. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right energy gel for your needs. After years of trying and testing different brands, here is my buying guide on the best cycling energy gels.

1. Purpose of Energy Gels

Before diving into which brand or flavor to choose, it’s essential to understand the purpose of energy gels. These packets are designed to provide a quick source of carbohydrates and electrolytes to your body when it needs a boost during exercise. They are easy to consume while riding, and their fast-acting formula helps prevent bonking or hitting a wall.

2. Ingredients

When looking for the best cycling energy gel, pay close attention to its ingredients list. Ideally, you want an energy gel that contains a mix of simple and complex carbohydrates like glucose, fructose, and maltodextrin. These will provide both quick and sustained energy during your ride. Additionally, look for gels that contain electrolytes like sodium and potassium to replenish what is lost through sweat.

3. Caffeine Content

Some energy gels come with added caffeine for an extra boost of energy. If you’re sensitive to caffeine or plan on riding in the evening, opt for gels with little or no caffeine content. On the other hand, if you’re riding in the morning or need an extra kick towards the end of your ride, consider gels with a higher caffeine content.

4. Flavors

Energy gels come in various flavors ranging from fruity to chocolatey options. It’s essential to choose a flavor that you enjoy as you’ll be consuming them mid-ride when your taste buds might be sensitive due to dehydration or fatigue. Trial different flavors before committing to buying in bulk.

5. Packaging

During cycling rides, convenience is key when it comes to consuming anything on-the-go. Look for energy gels that come in easy-to-open packaging that can be easily consumed while riding without causing any mess.

6. Brand Reputation

When it comes down to it, choosing a reputable brand is crucial when purchasing any sports nutrition products like energy gels. Do some research on different brands’ quality control measures and customer reviews before making your purchase.

Conclusion

Finding the best cycling energy gel may involve some trial and error as everyone’s body reacts differently to different products. However, by considering these factors mentioned above – purpose of use, ingredients list, caffeine content, flavors, packaging, and brand reputation – you’ll be able to find an energy gel that works best for your needs during long rides.

Author Profile

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Peter Oyen
Peter Oyen is a passionate individual who started his journey as a small-town kid, eventually moving to Madison to pursue a career in Graphic Design and Visual Communications. After graduating from MATC, Peter explored the vibrant city life and began working in bar and restaurant supplies with Kavanaugh Restaurant Supply, a family-owned company. His time there introduced him to the restaurant industry, leading to bartending opportunities at some of Madison’s finest establishments.

From 2024, Peter transitioned to writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers a wide range of content, from in-depth evaluations of the latest tech gadgets to reviews of biking equipment, reflecting his diverse career experiences. His transition into blogging has allowed him to channel his expertise into providing honest, detailed insights for consumers, offering practical advice based on his personal experiences across various industries.