Best Natural Energy Gels for Runners | Outside Running Co.

Energy Gels — Natural, Real-Food Fuel for Runners

Power your runs with clean, stomach-friendly energy gels made from real ingredients. Designed for steady endurance and easy digestion — without artificial junk.

🏃 Why Runners Use Energy Gels

Energy gels are compact, quick-absorbing carbohydrate sources that help runners, cyclists, and endurance athletes maintain energy during training and races. Each gel delivers a measured dose of carbs — typically 20–30 grams — to sustain glycogen levels and prevent the dreaded mid-run crash. The best gels provide steady fuel without stomach issues, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Outside Running Co..

🌿 Clean Ingredients, Better Performance

Unlike traditional gels made with maltodextrin and artificial flavors, our collection features real-food energy gels made from fruit purées, nut butters, maple syrup, and chia. These ingredients digest smoothly, release energy gradually, and taste like actual food — perfect for marathoners, trail runners, and ultra-distance athletes.

All our gels are free from artificial colors, synthetic sweeteners, and preservatives, and many are vegan or gluten-free.

🔥 Top Energy Gel Brands We Carry

  • Hüma Energy Gels — chia-based real-food gels with fruit purée and electrolytes.
  • Spring Energy — fruit, rice, and nut blends for long, steady energy.
  • Muir Energy — slow-burn nut-butter gels for ultra-distance efforts.
  • Crybaby Sports Blend — bold, bakery-inspired real-food gels.
  • Untapped Maple — single-ingredient Vermont maple syrup gels for simple, steady carbs.

Every brand is chosen for its natural formulation, clean flavor, and proven performance — trusted by runners who fuel with real food.

🕒 How to Use Energy Gels

  • During runs: Take one gel every 30–45 minutes (or 2–3 per hour for long efforts).
  • Hydrate: Always follow gels with water or electrolyte drinks to support absorption.
  • Training tip: Practice your fueling strategy before race day — aim for 60–90 g of carbs per hour.

Combine gels with hydration mixes and energy chews for complete fueling.

⚖️ Clean Gels vs. Synthetic Gels

Traditional gels rely on refined sugars and additives that often cause GI distress. Our lineup replaces those with natural carbohydrates, balanced electrolytes, and real flavors that keep energy stable and digestion smooth. That’s why our customers describe these gels as fuel you can actually enjoy.

❓ FAQs

Are these gels suitable for sensitive stomachs?

Yes — all our gels use real-food bases with no synthetic thickeners or harsh sweeteners, making them easy to digest even during long races.

Which gel is best for ultra running?

For long trail or ultra events, try Muir Energy or Spring Energy for higher calories and slower energy release.

What’s a good pre-run option?

Untapped Maple gels or Honey Stinger Waffles are excellent for pre-run fuel that’s light and effective.

Shop Energy Gels →
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