10 Best Energy Gels 2025 in the United States

The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is a practical choice for athletes looking for on-the-go energy support. It offers 100 calories per packet and is formulated with dual sources of carbohydrates—maltodextrin and fructose—for efficient absorption. This means sustained energy during activities like running, biking, hiking, or skiing. Additionally, it contains branched-chain amino acids to help reduce muscle damage and mental fatigue, making it suitable for both training and racing.

The Tri-Berry flavor includes 20mg of caffeine, 55mg of sodium, and 30mg of potassium, providing a modest boost in alertness and essential electrolytes for maintaining hydration balance. It's also vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and dairy-free, appealing to those with dietary restrictions. The consistency is designed for easy consumption, and the portable packaging is convenient for use during activities.

Some users might find the flavor options limited or the caffeine content insufficient if they're used to higher doses. Additionally, while the packaging is handy, it may not be environmentally friendly, which could be a consideration for some. This energy gel is a reliable choice for athletes seeking a balanced, easy-to-digest energy source during their workouts.

The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Mandarin Orange flavor is designed to provide athletes with quick and efficient energy during workouts and races. Each packet contains 100 calories and essential electrolytes, making it a suitable choice for activities like running, biking, hiking, and skiing. The energy gel uses a dual source of carbohydrates (maltodextrin and fructose), which helps in efficient absorption and provides lasting energy without causing digestive issues.

Additionally, it includes branched-chain amino acids to reduce muscle damage and mental fatigue, enhancing performance and recovery. With 20mg of caffeine, the gel offers a mild stimulatory effect, which can be beneficial for endurance activities. The presence of 55mg sodium and 35mg potassium aids in maintaining electrolyte balance, crucial for long-duration workouts. The Mandarin Orange flavor is a refreshing and palatable choice, although flavor preference can be subjective. The gel's consistency is smooth and easy to consume on-the-go.

The packaging is flexible and portable, making it convenient to carry during activities. Being vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and dairy-free, it caters to various dietary preferences and restrictions. However, some users might find the caffeine content too low for a significant boost, and the sugar type (fructose) might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, while the packaging is convenient, it might not be the most environmentally friendly option. This energy gel is a solid option for athletes looking for a reliable and easy-to-use energy source during physical activities.

The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is a solid choice for athletes seeking a quick and portable energy boost. The variety pack includes five fruity flavors—Lemon Sublime, Salted Watermelon, Strawberry-Banana, Jet Blackberry, and Mandarin Orange—catering to different taste preferences. The gels are vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and dairy-free, making them suitable for people with various dietary restrictions.

Each packet provides 100 calories and essential electrolytes, which are crucial for maintaining performance and hydration during prolonged activities like running, biking, hiking, or skiing. The dual-source energy from maltodextrin and fructose ensures efficient absorption and sustained energy release, helping athletes stay energized throughout their workouts. Additionally, branched-chain amino acids in the gel help reduce muscle damage and mental fatigue, which can be beneficial for recovery and endurance.

One minor drawback is the varying caffeine content across flavors, which may require users to check each packet carefully if they are sensitive to caffeine. The packaging is convenient and portable, designed to be taken 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity. However, some users might find the consistency a bit too thick, which could make it harder to consume on the go. In summary, this energy gel is a practical and effective option for athletes looking for a quick energy source with a variety of flavors and dietary considerations.