Energy gels have sure gone a long way since being introduced into the world of endurance sports in the 90s. Different brands have invested a lot of effort into perfecting the formulas, taste, drinkability, and efficiency of their energy gels.
If you don't know what an energy gel is, you can learn all about it here!
Today, the market is flooded with energy gels, but not all of them are equally good. In this blog we help you choose the best energy gel for cycling.
Our top 3 energy gels for cycling
During our time as endurance athletes, we've tried many different energy gels. These are our top 3 energy gels we recommend for the cycling season.
When making the list, we considered the following factors:
- carbohydrate composition
- mineral composition
- taste and drinkability.
Without further ado, here are our top 3 recommendations.
1. Energy gel Nrgy Gel 45 — Nduranz
Pros:
- Double the amount of carbohydrates than most gels
- Allows absorption of 90 grams of carbs per hour
- Allows you to sustain optimal hydration during exercise
Cons:
- Requires water
As far as pure performance goes, Nduranz's Nrgy Gel 45 is our clear winner. It contains a high amount of carbohydrates in the correct combination and ratio and the full suite of electrolytes to enable optimal hydration.
Nrgy Gel 45 contains 45 grams of carbohydrates per gel in a 1:0.8 ratio of maltodextrin and fructose, allowing high absorption without digestive issues.
It also contains an advanced electrolyte mix created by Nduranz, which aims to replace all the minerals you lose in your sweat, allowing optimal hydration without messing up your gut.
Nrgy Gel 45 was used by the top-level professional triathlete Sam Laidlow to achieve an amazing second place at the Ironman World Championship 2022.
2. Energy gel 2:1 Gel — 4 Endurance
Pros:
- Supports high energy absorption
- Great for gut training
- Light and refreshing taste
Cons:
- Not optimal for carb intakes of more than 90 g/h
The 2:1 Gel 4Endurance is a great choice for cyclists who want a flexible, easy-to-use energy gel that supports both moderate and high energy demands.
Each serving provides 30 grams of carbohydrates from glucose and fructose in a 2:1 ratio. This helps your body absorb more carbs without overloading the gut, making it a smart option for longer rides, harder sessions, and race-day fuelling.
It also contains 100 mg of sodium to support hydration and help replace minerals lost in sweat.
Because the taste is light and not overly sweet, it’s easier to use again and again without getting tired of it during long sessions.
Overall, 2:1 Gel is a strong pick if you want steady energy, gut-friendly absorption, and a simple way to build your long-term fuelling strategy.
3. Energy gel 4Energy Gel — 4Endurance
Pros:
- It can be consumed without any additional water.
- The source of sugar is freshly squeezed fruit juice.
- Exciting, natural, and refreshing taste
Cons:
- Doesn't contain all the essential minerals
The energy gel 4Energy is designed for endurance athletes who aim for a moderate intake of carbohydrates during exercise.
Where this energy gel stands out from the competition is that it's so drinkable that you can consume it without any water. This makes it ideal for runners, who often don't have the luxury of carrying a sports bottle, but it is also commonly used in cycling.
The energy gel 4Energy is also distinguished by a uniquely refreshing taste. If you feel like you can taste real fruit in there, it's because it's sweetened by freshly squeezed fruit juice. Delicious.
While this energy gel is not designed for the highest-intensity athletes, many pro athletes, especially runners, still choose this energy gel to fuel their amazing performances.
Honourable mention: Energy Gel with L-Carnitine — 4Endurance
Pros:
- Gives more than just energy
- Utilises L-carnitine to raise lactate threshold and efficiently convert fat stores into energy.
- Contains choline bitartrate, which helps to maintain focus and movement coordination during long rides.
Cons:
- Contains only one source of carbohydrates
- Doesn't contain all the essential minerals
Why is it an honourable mention? The L-Carnitine Energy Gel 4Endurance stands out because it is unique among energy gels.
It's a blend of L-carnitine, choline bitartrate, and green tea extract, offering benefits beyond just energy. These ingredients contribute to better fat utilisation, cognitive support, and enhanced metabolism.
However, its limitations include only one flavour option and a lack of essential minerals. Additionally, it relies on a single carbohydrate source, which may not meet the varied nutritional needs of all athletes.
Most athletes use it in combination with other gels. It is especially helpful for people who want to lose a bit of extra weight or maintain it.
How to choose the best energy gel?
When choosing the best energy gel for you, you must also consider a few other factors that can greatly influence your selection.
- Exercise duration
- Exercise intensity
- Your goals and objectives
- Potential health issues or dietary restrictions
- Personal preference
In the end, the choice is often a matter of personal preference. Perhaps the taste of one energy gel suits you so much more, or perhaps a certain energy gel causes you digestive issues.
During endurance exercise, the number of energy gels you consume may be extremely high, so it's important to choose an energy gel that makes you feel good and doesn't cause you discomfort.
The only way to know if an energy gel works for you is by trying it out and testing it in practice. If it keeps you going through your exercise, doesn't cause you digestive issues, and doesn't feel horrible after the fifth or sixth gel, then you've found your winner.
These were our top 3 recommendations for cycling. If you want to try them out, check out our offer of the best energy gels for cycling!
