Whether you’re tackling a gruelling climb or enjoying a leisurely weekend ride, maintaining your energy levels is crucial for a successful cycling experience. Energy gels, bars, and drinks are designed to provide cyclists with the essential nutrients and calories needed to power through long rides and challenging routes. However, not all energy products are created equal, and finding the best-tasting options can be a challenge. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most delicious and effective energy gels, bars, and drinks for cycling enthusiasts.
Energy Gels
GU Energy Gel
GU Energy Gel has become a favourite among cyclists for its wide variety of flavours and optimal carbohydrate blend. With over 20 flavours to choose from, including Salted Caramel, Vanilla Bean, and Tri-Berry, there’s something to suit every palate. The unique formula combines fast-acting and long-lasting carbohydrates, as well as electrolytes and amino acids, to keep you energised and hydrated throughout your ride.
SIS GO Isotonic Energy Gel
The SIS GO Isotonic Energy Gel stands out for its isotonic formula, which means it can be consumed without the need for water. This allows for quicker absorption and minimal gastrointestinal issues. With flavours like Apple, Orange, and Tropical, these gels offer a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm-weather rides.
Huma Chia Energy Gel
Huma Chia Energy Gel stands out for its all-natural ingredients and use of chia seeds, which provide a steady release of energy and help maintain consistent blood sugar levels. These gels come in a variety of unique and delicious flavours, such as Blueberry, Strawberry Lemonade, and Chocolate Raspberry. Huma Chia Energy Gels are vegan, gluten-free, and ideal for cyclists seeking a natural energy boost.
Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel
Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gels are made with organic honey, which serves as a natural and easily digestible carbohydrate source. The gels also include electrolytes and B vitamins for optimal performance. With flavours like Acai Pomegranate, Fruit Smoothie, and Vanilla, Honey Stinger gels offer a sweet and satisfying taste that appeals to many cyclists. The brand is also known for its commitment to sustainable and organic ingredients.
Hammer Nutrition Hammer Gel
Hammer Nutrition Hammer Gel is another popular choice among cyclists, known for its easily digestible and long-lasting energy formula. The gels contain a blend of carbohydrates, amino acids, and antioxidants to help you power through even the toughest rides. Hammer Gel comes in a variety of tasty flavours, such as Apple Cinnamon, Chocolate, and Raspberry, giving cyclists plenty of options to choose from. These gels are also gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Energy Bars
Clif Bar
Clif Bars have long been a go-to choice for cyclists, offering a great balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fibre to keep you fueled on long rides. Made with organic ingredients, these bars come in a wide range of tasty flavours, such as Chocolate Chip, Crunchy Peanut Butter, and White Chocolate Macadamia Nut. Clif Bars also offer a sustained energy release, making them ideal for endurance rides.
RXBAR
For those seeking a more natural and clean energy bar option, RXBARs are a popular choice. These bars are made with simple ingredients, like egg whites, nuts, and dates, and contain no added sugar or artificial preservatives. Available in flavours such as Chocolate Sea Salt, Blueberry, and Peanut Butter, RXBARs provide a delicious and wholesome energy boost.
KIND Bars
KIND Bars are a popular option among cyclists for their simple, whole-food ingredients and great taste. Made with nuts, fruits, and grains, these bars offer a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, providing sustained energy throughout your ride. With a wide range of flavours, such as Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt, Almond & Coconut, and Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, there’s a KIND Bar to suit every palate. These bars are also gluten-free and non-GMO.
Picky Bars
Picky Bars were created by professional athletes with the goal of providing a balanced, real-food energy bar for endurance sports. These bars are made with a blend of nuts, seeds, fruits, and natural sweeteners, offering a great mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Picky Bars come in creative and delicious flavours like Ah, Fudge Nuts!, Blueberry Boomdizzle, and Chai and Catch Me, making them an enjoyable option for fueling your ride. Additionally, Picky Bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
Energy Drinks
Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Drink Mix
Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Drink Mix is designed to replace the electrolytes lost in sweat while providing an optimal balance of carbohydrates for energy. Made with real fruit for flavour, this drink mix avoids artificial ingredients and excess sugar, making it a healthier option for cyclists. Flavours like Strawberry Lemonade, Matcha Green Tea & Lemon, and Orange provide a refreshing and tasty way to stay hydrated and energized.
Nuun Sport
Nuun Sport is a popular electrolyte drink tablet that dissolves quickly in water to create a flavorful and hydrating sports drink. The low-calorie formula is packed with essential electrolytes to maintain proper fluid balance and prevent cramping. With a variety of flavours, such as Citrus Fruit, Tri-Berry, and Lemon Lime, Nuun Sport offers a convenient and delicious way to stay fueled on the go.
High5 Energy Source
High5 Energy Source is a popular sports drink among UK cyclists, known for its scientifically formulated blend of carbohydrates and electrolytes. This drink mix is designed to maximise hydration and deliver sustained energy release during intense rides. High5 Energy Source comes in a variety of refreshing flavours, such as Citrus, Summer Fruits, and Tropical, making it an enjoyable and effective option for cyclists. The product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans and contains no artificial colours, preservatives, or sweeteners.
TORQ Energy Drink
TORQ Energy Drink is a well-regarded sports drink in the UK, designed to deliver optimal carbohydrate absorption and hydration. Its formula contains a 2:1 maltodextrin:fructose ratio, which has been shown to improve endurance performance by providing a steady supply of energy. TORQ Energy Drink is available in a range of flavours, such as Lemon & Lime, Blackcurrant, and Orange, offering cyclists a tasty way to stay fueled during their rides. This energy drink is also free from artificial colours, flavours, and sweeteners, making it a healthier option for athletes.
When it comes to energy gels, bars, and drinks for cycling, the taste is just as important as effectiveness. The best-tasting options will make it easy to maintain your energy levels and enjoy your ride. By exploring different flavours and formulas, you can find the perfect combination of delicious and functional products to fuel your cycling adventures. So, stock up on these tasty energy sources and hit the road, ready to conquer any challenge that comes your way.
