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Whatever your flavor, ingredient or texture preferences, you can find the right energy gel from these five fresh options.
Honey Stinger Mango Orange Organic Gel
The newest certified organic and gluten-free gel flavor from Honey Stinger is made with honey (naturally) and tapioca syrup as fuel sources. Mango Orange has a sweet tooth-satisfying flavor with hints of citrus. Each 100-calorie packet contains 24 grams of carbohydrates plus 50 milligrams each of sodium and potassium. $33 for box of 24, Honeystinger.com
PowerBar Simple Fruit Energy Food
Just launched in April, PowerBar’s Simple Fruit provides a natural, clean way to fuel workouts. Made with fruit purées and available in three flavors (taste test favorite was the apple pear raspberry), it has the consistency and taste of applesauce with a hint of pear. Each packet contains 100 calories and 25 grams of carbohydrates, but you should look to get your electrolytes from another source. $1.99, Powerbar.com
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GU Cucumber Mint Energy Gel
The new-for-2016 cucumber mint has a refreshingly original flavor compared to other gels, especially with its minty finish. It has the same smooth viscosity and formula as other GU gels—100 calories, 125 milligrams of sodium plus amino acids. It also has 20 milligrams of caffeine from green tea. Reach for this when you need a palate reset during a long workout. $1.45, Guenergy.com
Glukos Energy Gel
Glukos products are based on the idea that glucose is the form of fuel best utilized by your body, and that it can be absorbed immediately. This “gel” has the liquid consistency of a sports drink, which is great for those who can’t stomach typical gel thickness. Available in three fruity flavors (orange won the taste test), it has a higher volume (2 fluid ounces) and fewer calories (60) than other gels. It’s high in potassium, plus has sodium and 16 grams of carbs. $24 for box of 12, Glukosenergy.com
Hammer Montana Huckleberry Gel
This gel is made with real huckleberries, a flavor idea plucked from the company’s Montana roots. It has a thick, jam-like consistency and sweet, berry flavor. Nutrient-wise, each packet contains 90 calories, 22 grams of carbs, amino acids and is lower on the electrolyte scale with 25 milligrams of sodium. $1.40, Hammernutrition.com