Best Energy Gels of 2025

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Energy gels are a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a quick and convenient source of energy during intense workouts or endurance activities. These portable and easily digestible gel packs are designed to provide a concentrated burst of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and sometimes caffeine to support performance and maintain energy levels. With a range of flavors and formulations available, energy gels offer a practical solution for those seeking an instant boost during physical exertion without the need for bulky snacks or drinks.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack Cover #TOP 1
Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 24-Count Cover #TOP 2
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 24-Count
ftb score rating icon 9.8
GU Energy Gel Strawberry Banana Cover #TOP 3
GU Energy Gel Strawberry Banana
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Energy Gels

#TOP 1

Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack

VAR-GELS
Variety
Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack Cover
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 Gel Variety Pack is the perfect sampler pack of two of their top selling flavors. These grab-and-go energy gels are made for quick, sustained energy that you can eat right from the package. With 24g of carbs per serving, these energy gels are designed to provide a quick energy boost without weighing you down. They are portable and easy to digest, making them ideal for race day or to take with you while running, biking, or working out at home. Made with quality ingredients including USDA Organic certification, these gels also provide potassium to help replenish electrolytes post-exercise. Honey Stinger is a trusted brand used by more than 1,000 teams and collegiate programs, making it a reliable choice for anyone chasing their fitness goals.

What We Like
Tasty flavor options
Easy on the stomach
Convenient packaging
Good energy boost
Clean ingredients
What We Don't Like
May be too sweet for some
Can be messy if not empty
#TOP 2

GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 24-Count

GU
123209
Assorted Flavors
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 24-Count Cover
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 is a variety pack of 24 packets which includes Vegan and Gluten Free flavors like Chocolate Outrage, Salted Caramel, Vanilla Bean, Jet Blackberry, Tri-berry, and Strawberry Banana. It is designed to provide athletes with essential electrolytes and 100 calories in each packet for efficient absorption and lasting energy. With dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose, it helps decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue. Take one packet before and every 45 minutes during activity.

What We Like
Quick energy boost
Tasty flavors
Convenient packaging
Vegan and gluten-free
Effective for endurance
What We Don't Like
Pricey compared to others
#TOP 3

GU Energy Gel Strawberry Banana

GU
123036
Strawberry/Banana
8 Count (Pack of 1)
GU Energy Gel Strawberry Banana Cover
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 8-Count, Strawberry Banana

The GU Energy Gel is a specially designed sports nutrition gel that aims to help athletes perform at their best. With just 100 calories, this gel provides essential electrolytes in a convenient and portable packet. The unique combination of maltodextrin and fructose ensures efficient absorption and long-lasting energy by utilizing non-competing pathways. Whether you're training or racing, simply take one packet 5 minutes before your activity and another one every 45 minutes during. In addition to its energy-boosting properties, this gel also contains branched-chain amino acids that help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue. With its caffeine-free, vegan, and gluten-free formula, the Strawberry Banana flavor is a great choice for athletes with dietary restrictions. Plus, it contains 55mg of sodium and 35mg of potassium to replenish electrolytes lost during exercise.

What We Like
Great taste options
Good energy boost
Convenient for packing
Effective for endurance activities
Easy to consume while active
What We Don't Like
Thicker consistency than some
May taste too sweet after multiple uses
#TOP 4

GU Energy Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel

123072
GU Energy Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel Cover
GU Energy Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-The-Go Sports Nutrition for Running, Biking, Hiking or Skiing, Assorted Flavors,24-Count

The GU Energy Roctane Gel is a high-performance energy gel designed for endurance activities like running and cycling. With 100 calories and essential electrolytes, it provides a quick and convenient source of fuel during intense workouts. The gel contains 1425mg of amino acids, which help reduce muscle damage and mental fatigue, allowing you to push harder and go further. The dual-source energy from maltodextrin and fructose ensures efficient absorption and lasting energy, keeping you fueled throughout your activity. Whether you're racing or training, simply take one packet 5 minutes before your workout and another every 45 minutes during. The GU Energy Roctane Gel comes in a variety pack with different flavors, ensuring there's something for everyone.

What We Like
Good taste
Increased endurance
Quick recovery
Effective for long runs
Variety of flavors
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Some dislike the taste
#TOP 5

GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, 24-Count

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

The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel comes in a 24-count variety pack with assorted fruity flavors, including Lemon Sublime, Salted Watermelon, Strawberry-Banana, Jet Blackberry, and Mandarin Orange. Each packet provides 100 calories and essential electrolytes, with the dual-source energy from maltodextrin and fructose ensuring efficient absorption and lasting energy. Additionally, the inclusion of branched-chain amino acids helps to decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue. These gels are perfect for use during training or racing, with a recommended intake of one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity. All flavors are vegan and gluten-free.

What We Like
Quick energy boost
Delicious flavor variety
Smooth, easy-to-swallow texture
Vegan and gluten-free
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Texture might be unusual
Can get warm while running
#TOP 6

Huma Chia Energy Gel, Variety 12 Pack

MIX12
Variety Pack
Huma Chia Energy Gel, Variety 12 Pack Cover
Huma Chia Energy Gel, Variety 12 Pack - Stomach Friendly, Real Food Energy Gels for Endurance Exercise

Huma Chia Energy Gel is a natural sports nutrition energy gel that provides stomach-friendly, real food energy for endurance exercise. Made with fruit puree, powdered chia seeds, and brown rice syrup, the gel is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly. The finely milled chia seeds help modulate an even energy output, and the 2:1 ratio of short and long chain glucose to fructose maximizes carbohydrate uptake. With no dextrose or maltodextrin, Huma energy gels give your stomach real food it can easily process, and they taste great too!

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Delicious flavors
Easy to digest
No gastrointestinal issues
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Some empty packets received
#TOP 7

GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel

GU
White and brown
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Cover
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

The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is a 24-pack variety pack that comes in different flavors such as Vanilla Bean, Salted Caramel, Caramel Macchiato, Espresso Love, and Chocolate Outrage. These gels are vegan and gluten-free and are designed to help athletes perform their best. Each packet contains 100 calories and essential electrolytes that give a dual-source of energy from maltodextrin and fructose. It helps decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue thanks to the branched-chain amino acids. These gels are perfect for use in training or racing, taking one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity.

What We Like
Great taste
Easy to digest
Fast energy boost
Variety of flavors
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Price is a bit high
Some packages may leak
#TOP 8

GU Energy Gel Mandarin Orange

123043
Orange W/ Caffeine
GU Energy Gel Mandarin Orange Cover
GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, and Dairy-Free On-the-Go Energy for Any Workout, 24-Count, Mandarin Orange

The GU Energy Gel offers essential nutrition for athletes to enhance performance. With 100 calories and key electrolytes in a convenient packet, it fuels your workouts effectively. The dual energy source, combining maltodextrin and fructose, ensures quick absorption and sustained energy, making it ideal for running, biking, hiking, or skiing. You can easily incorporate it into your routine by taking one packet five minutes before and every 45 minutes during your activity. Additionally, the inclusion of branched-chain amino acids helps reduce muscle damage and mental fatigue, allowing you to push through your challenges with greater ease.

What We Like
Good taste
Easy to digest
Quick energy boost
Variety of flavors
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Texture and taste may vary
Closure could be improved
#TOP 9

CLIF BLOKS - Energy Chews Variety Pack

160377
Variety Pack
CLIF BLOKS - Energy Chews Variety Pack Cover
CLIF BLOKS - Energy Chews - Variety Pack - Non-GMO - Plant Based - Fast Fuel for Cycling and Running - Quick Carbohydrates and Electrolytes - 2.12 oz. Packets (12 Count)

CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews were created to provide quick, chewable energy for training and racing. They come in a variety of delicious flavors, with sodium and caffeine levels to suit any goals. The easy-to-open packaging and soft, chewable texture make them easy to eat, allowing you to focus on performance. The cubes are 33 calories each, and with sleek and portable packaging, it's easy to customize and track caloric and electrolyte intake during long outings and races. The value pack includes 12 packets of CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews in assorted flavors.

What We Like
Delicious flavors
Convenient packaging
Easy to digest
Provides energy boost
Good for endurance activities
What We Don't Like
Can be sticky
Non-receipt of mystery flavors
#TOP 10

UCAN Edge Energy Gel Shots

UCAN Edge Energy Gel Shots Cover
UCAN Edge Energy Gel Shots, Variety Pack (12, 2 Ounce Packets) for Running, Training, Workouts, Fitness, Cycling, Crossfit | Sugar-Free, Vegan, & Keto Friendly Energy

UCAN Edge Energy Gel is designed to enhance your performance by maintaining stable energy levels. With its innovative LIVSTEADY formula, you can avoid the highs and lows associated with traditional energy sources, allowing you to train harder without fatigue holding you back. This gel is sugar-free, so you can fuel your workouts without worrying about crashes. Its slow-burning formula digests easily, providing consistent energy for your muscles and brain, making it ideal for pre-, post-, or intra-workout use. Experience a new level of endurance with UCAN Edge.

What We Like
Stable energy without sugar
Easy to digest
Pleasant taste options
Convenient for workouts
Good mood boost
What We Don't Like
Gritty texture
Large container size
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should you take energy gels?

It is recommended to take energy gels around the 60-minute mark during a run, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. This allows for a gradual release of simple sugars into the bloodstream and prevents overwhelming the body with too much sugar at once.

2. Do you really need energy gels?

Energy gels are not necessary for runs under 60 minutes, easy-paced runs, or if you have already consumed a carbohydrate-rich meal before your run. However, they can be beneficial during longer runs when your carbohydrate stores start to deplete, providing a quick source of energy.

3. What are the disadvantages of energy gels?

Some disadvantages of energy gels include limited variety in textures, the potential for upset stomachs due to the high concentration of carbohydrates, especially if not consumed regularly or without sufficient water, and consuming them at the wrong time.

4. Do energy gels really work?

Yes, energy gels can be effective in replenishing your carbohydrate stores during long-distance running. They provide a quick source of energy, helping to fuel your muscles. During running, your body utilizes both fat and carbohydrates as fuel, and energy gels can help replenish the carbohydrates and give you an extra boost.

5. How many gels do I need for a 5-hour marathon?

For a 5-hour marathon, it is recommended to take 2 or 3 energy gels every hour from the start of the event. This strategy ensures that you have a sufficient supply of carbohydrates available for a strong finish by mile 17.

6. Do you need gels for 10 miles?

Gel training is suitable for intermediate distance runs of 8-12 miles. For these runs, it is recommended to use either one or two energy gel packs. The gel can be taken either immediately before or during the run.

7. How many gels are too many?

It is important not to exceed the absorption limit of around 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. This is equivalent to approximately two or three energy gel sachets. Taking energy gels more frequently may provide better benefits, but moderation is key to avoid overwhelming the body's ability to absorb and utilize carbohydrates effectively.

Editor's Notes

During our energy gel research, we found 24 energy gel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 120,502 customer reviews through our big data system to write the energy gels list. We found that most customers choose energy gels with an average price of $33.80.

The energy gels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of energy gels, including Honey Stinger, GU, GU ENERGY GEL, Clif Bloks, UCAN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Energy Gels Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Honey Stinger GU GU GU ENERGY GEL GU HÜMA CHIA ENERGY GEL GU GU ENERGY GEL Clif Bloks UCAN
Flavor Variety Pack Assorted Flavors - Assorted Flavors - Variety Pack Assorted Indulgent Flavors Mandarin Orange Variety Pack, 12ct Variety Pack
Item Form Gel Liquid - Gel - - Gel Gel - Gel
Package Information Tube Can - Packet - - Bottle flexible - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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