Most gel guides are written from a desk. This isn’t.
I’ve been testing energy gels during real training runs — hill sessions, long efforts, and low-fuel conditions — to see what actually works when you’re tired, breathing hard, and need something reliable.
Because in trail running, gels aren’t just about energy. They need to be:
- Easy to open mid-run
- Comfortable to swallow when you’re working hard
- Reliable on the stomach over time
This guide breaks down the best options I’ve tested so far — what works, what doesn’t, and which gels are actually worth carrying on your runs.
QUICK PICKS
Best Overall: TORQ
Best for Beginners: Science in Sport
Best Premium Option: Maurten
Best Budget Option: High5
One to Avoid (for running): Lucozade
HOW I TESTED
All gels were tested during real runs, including:
- Hill sessions
- Mid-run energy dips
- Low-fuel conditions
I focused on:
- Ease of use mid-run
- Texture and drinkability
- Energy delivery
- Stomach comfort
- Practical handling (opening, stickiness, mess)
| Gel | Energy Boost | Texture | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| TORQ | Steady & reliable | Smooth, easy to take | Very high (compact, no mess) |
| GU | Strong, noticeable | Thick but manageable | High (compact, easy to carry) |
| SIS | Moderate, steady | Slightly grainy / jelly-like | Medium (bulky, can be messy) |
| High5 | Low / not noticeable | Very watery | Very high (easy to take) |
| Lucozade | Strong | Thick, sticky | Low (hard to open, needs water) |
1 – TORQ Energy Gel (Best Overall)
- Smooth texture, easy to take
- Compact and lightweight
- Steady energy release
Verdict: A lightweight, high-performance gel that sets the standard for trail runners.
2 – GU Energy Gel (Orange)
- Compact and easy to carry
- Thick but easy to take without water
- Noticeable energy boost
Verdict: A compact, no-fuss gel that delivers a clear performance boost when it matters.
3 – High5 Energy Gel (Orange)
- Very easy to take (watery texture)
- Light, non-sticky and pleasant taste
- No noticeable energy boost
Verdict: Incredibly easy to consume, but lacks the impact you need during harder efforts.
4 – Lucozade Original Energy Gel
- Delivers a noticeable energy boost
- Thick, sticky texture and needs water
- Difficult to open mid-run
Verdict: Provides energy, but awkward to use — not well suited to real running conditions.
5 – SIS GO Isotonic Energy Gel
- No water needed (isotonic formula)
- Reliable and easy on the stomach
- Bulky and less energy-dense than newer gels
Verdict: A dependable, no-fuss gel — but starting to feel outdated compared to newer options.
