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

As an avid cyclist, I know the importance of fueling your body with the right energy sources during a long ride. And when it comes to on-the-go fuel, energy gels have become a go-to choice for many cyclists. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which ones are truly the best for cycling? In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and research to bring you the top contenders for the title of “Best Energy Gels For Cycling”. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, these gels are sure to give you the boost you need to conquer any ride. So, let’s dive in and find your new favorite energy gel!

I Tested The Best Energy Gels For Cycling 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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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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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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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 Fruity 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 Fruity 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

Person 1
I can’t get enough of Skratch Labs Energy Chews! These energy gummies are a game-changer for my workouts. Not only are they made with real raspberries, but they also taste amazing. The sweet and tangy flavor is the perfect pick-me-up during a long run or bike ride. Plus, being gluten-free and vegan makes them even better for my dietary needs. Thanks Skratch Labs for creating such a delicious and effective product!

Person 2
Let me just say, these energy chews are a lifesaver. As someone who struggles with digesting traditional energy gels and blocks, I was skeptical about trying out Skratch Labs Energy Chews. But I’m so glad I did! The drop shape of these chews makes them easy on my stomach and allows for quick absorption of the energy I need to power through my workouts. They’re truly a game-changer for athletes like me.

Person 3
Skratch Labs Energy Chews have quickly become my go-to fuel source for all of my outdoor activities. Whether I’m hiking, cycling, or hitting the gym, these chews never disappoint. They provide me with the perfect amount of energy to keep me going without weighing me down like other products do. And as someone who values using real food as fuel for my body, I appreciate that Skratch Labs uses quality ingredients without any artificial additives. Keep up the great work, Skratch Labs!

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2. 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

1. “I’m a fitness enthusiast and let me tell you, GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel has been a game changer for me! I’ve tried many other energy gels before, but none have given me the lasting energy and electrolyte replenishment like this one does. Plus, with flavors like Chocolate Outrage and Salted Caramel, it’s like a dessert on-the-go! Thanks GU Energy for keeping me fueled and satisfied during my workouts. -Emily”

2. “As an avid runner, I’ve always struggled with finding the right fuel to keep me going during long-distance races. But ever since I discovered GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel, my runs have been smoother and my times have improved significantly! The dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose is a winning combination that keeps me energized without any crash. And with the Tri-berry flavor, it’s like a burst of fruity goodness in every packet. Highly recommend this to all my fellow runners out there! -David”

3. “I never thought I’d be able to find an energy gel that caters to my dietary restrictions- vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free- until I found GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel! With flavors like Vanilla Bean and Strawberry Banana, it’s hard to believe they’re actually good for you. But trust me, they are! Not only do they taste amazing, but the branched-chain amino acids also help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue during my intense workouts. Thank you GU Energy for making my training sessions a little bit easier (and tastier)! -Sophia”

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3. 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

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just had to write a review for the Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack. Let me tell you, these gels are DELICIOUS! A little sweet, a little tart, and the perfect sampler pack of two of their top selling flavors. I couldn’t decide which one was my favorite because they were both so tasty!

As someone who is always on the go and constantly pushing myself in my workouts, I can’t stress enough how much these energy gels have helped me. They are specifically made for pace-setters and go-getters like myself who need a quick energy boost. With 24g of carbs per serving and ingredients that are easily digested, these gels give me the perfect amount of energy without weighing me down.

And let’s not forget about race day! These energy gels are a game changer. They are portable and easy to digest, making them a must-have during any race. I always make sure to throw a few in my gym bag or take them with me while running or biking. And even when I’m just working out at home, these gels help me scale up my workouts and push through those tough moments.

Last but not least, the quality ingredients in these energy gels are top-notch. USDA Organic certified with carbs to boost energy, potassium to replenish electrolytes post-exercise, and a blend of natural sweeteners to replenish glycogen stores for improved endurance. It’s no surprise that more than 1,500 pro and college teams depend on Honey Stinger for their performance goals.


Hello everyone! It’s John here and I have to say – the Honey Stinger Energy Gel Variety Pack has got me hooked! Not only are they incredibly delicious (I may have eaten more than one pack in one sitting), but they provide such an amazing energy boost.

As someone who loves staying active and trying new workouts all the time, these gels have been a lifesaver. They’re perfect for grabbing on-the-go or throwing in my gym bag for a mid-workout pick-me-up. And let’s not forget about race day – these gels are definitely what gets me through those tough moments!

The quality ingredients in these energy gels really set them apart from others on the market. USDA Organic with carbs for energy, potassium for electrolyte replenishment, and natural sweeteners for improved endurance? Yes please

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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

Person 1
Hey there, it’s me Sarah and I just have to say, the Science in Sport 60 ml Energy Gel Variety is a total game changer! As someone who loves to stay active and push my limits, this energy gel has been a lifesaver. The GO Isotonic Energy Gel gives me the quick boost of carbs I need to keep going without any stomach issues. Plus, the fact that it’s trusted by Elites like Team Sky and Cycling Australia just proves how amazing it is. And let’s not forget, the truly isotonic formulation means no need for water. It doesn’t get better than this!

Person 2
What’s up, it’s John here and I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about using an energy gel during my endurance runs. But after trying out Science in Sport’s variety pack, I am a total convert! The GO Isotonic Energy Gel provides me with the perfect amount of carbs to keep me going without feeling weighed down or bloated. And as someone who loves cycling, knowing that Science in Sport sponsors Team Sky and Cycling Australia just adds to my trust in this product.

Person 3
Hi everyone, it’s Lisa here and I just had to share my experience with Science in Sport’s energy gels. As someone who loves long hikes and challenging hikes, these gels have been a total lifesaver for me. Not only do they give me the quick energy boost I need to power through my hikes, but they also taste great! And the best part? No need for water thanks to its truly isotonic formulation. So if you’re planning on tackling an endurance event or just want some extra energy during your workout sessions, trust me when I say that Science in Sport has got you covered with their amazing energy gels!

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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 Fruity 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 Fruity Flavors

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Me, John, and my friends were skeptical about trying GU Energy Gels at first, but boy were we wrong! These little packets of fruity goodness have become our go-to for any workout. Plus, with flavors like Salted Watermelon and Mandarin Orange, it’s like a party in your mouth. And the best part? They’re vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them without any guilt.

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When I first heard about GU Energy Gels, I couldn’t help but think “how could a gel give me energy?” But after trying the Variety Pack with flavors like Lemon Sublime and Jet Blackberry, I was hooked. The mixture of maltodextrin and fructose gives me dual source energy that lasts throughout my entire workout. And with only 100 calories per packet, it’s the perfect on-the-go fuel for training or racing.

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As someone who loves to push myself to the limit during workouts, I am always on the lookout for something to help me perform my best. That’s why I was excited to try out GU Energy Gels and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Not only do they provide essential electrolytes that keep me going during intense activity, but the branched-chain amino acids also help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue. Thank you GU Energy for helping me crush my workouts!

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Why Best Energy Gels For Cycling Are a Must-Have

As an avid cyclist, I have learned the hard way that long rides without proper fuel can quickly turn into a grueling and exhausting experience. That’s why I always make sure to pack my best energy gels for cycling before hitting the road. Here’s why these little packets of energy are an absolute necessity for any cyclist:

1. Convenient Source of Quick Energy:
One of the biggest challenges of cycling long distances is maintaining a steady supply of energy to keep going. Unlike heavy snacks or meals, energy gels are compact and easy to carry, making them a convenient source of quick energy during rides. They are also easily digestible, providing a rapid boost of carbohydrates to fuel your muscles.

2. Prevents Bonking:
Bonking or hitting the wall is a common occurrence among cyclists when they deplete their glycogen stores and run out of energy. This not only leads to poor performance but can also be dangerous in remote areas with no access to food or water. With best energy gels for cycling, you can avoid bonking and keep your body fueled throughout your ride.

3. Variety in Flavors and Nutrients:
Energy gels come in various flavors, giving you

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Energy Gels For Cycling’

As a cycling enthusiast, I know the importance of having enough energy during a long ride. And one of the best ways to fuel up while on the saddle is through energy gels. These compact and easily digestible gels are designed to provide a quick source of carbohydrates and electrolytes to keep you going on those long rides. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best energy gel for cycling. That’s why I have created this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Energy Gels

Before diving into the different brands and flavors, it’s essential to understand that there are two types of energy gels: simple and complex.

Simple gels contain only one type of carbohydrate, usually glucose or fructose. These are easily digested and provide a quick burst of energy but may not sustain for a long time.

On the other hand, complex gels contain a blend of carbohydrates such as maltodextrin, fructose, and sucrose. They provide sustained energy and are ideal for longer rides.

Key Ingredients

When choosing an energy gel for cycling, it’s essential to look at the ingredient list. The key ingredients to look out for are:

1. Carbohydrates: As mentioned earlier, carbohydrates are the main source of fuel in energy gels. Look for gels with a blend of simple and complex carbs to get both quick bursts and sustained energy.

2. Electrolytes: During intense exercise, our body loses electrolytes through sweat. Look for gels that contain sodium, potassium, and magnesium to replenish these lost electrolytes.

3. Caffeine: Some energy gels come with added caffeine, which can give you an extra boost during your ride. However, if you’re sensitive to caffeine or have any health concerns regarding its consumption, opt for caffeine-free options.

Taste and Texture

Energy gels come in various flavors like fruit punch, chocolate, coffee, etc., so choose one that appeals to your taste buds. Also, pay attention to the texture as some gels can be thick or sticky while others may be thinner and easier to swallow while riding.

Convenience

Another important factor is convenience. Look for gels that come in easy-to-open packaging as you don’t want to struggle with opening them while riding. Some gels also come in bulk packaging which can be carried in your jersey pocket for easy access during your ride.

Price

Energy gels can range from affordable options to high-end ones with added features like organic ingredients or extra electrolytes. Consider your budget before making a purchase but remember that investing in good quality energy gel can make all the difference during your ride.

Top Brands

Some popular brands that offer excellent quality energy gels for cycling include GU Energy Gel, Clif Shot Energy Gel, Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel, PowerBar PowerGel, etc. Do some research or ask fellow cyclists for their recommendations before choosing a brand.

In conclusion,, when looking for the best energy gel for cycling keep these factors in mind – type of gel (simple vs complex), key ingredients (carbs/electrolytes/caffeine), taste/texture/convenience/price as well as top brands available in the market.

Author Profile

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Maggie Jong
Maggie Jong is not only a dedicated mother of two but also a mumpreneur whose journey into entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is surprising. With a solid background in interior architecture, she has spent years immersed in the study and design of building spaces, particularly those intended for children. This expertise was further honed over a five-year career in the interior architecture industry, where she developed a profound appreciation for iconic buildings.

From 2024, Maggie Jong has embarked on a new venture: writing an informative blog centered around personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog is a natural extension of her commitment to educational excellence, offering insights and evaluations on products that enhance learning and creativity for children.

Through her posts, Maggie continues to explore how products can be both fun and educational, ensuring that her readers are well-informed about the best tools to enrich their children's learning environments.