By StripeFit Editorial TeamFirst published Updated
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Choose a triathlon gel by the packet you can carry, open, and tolerate on both the bike and run. Maurten Gel 100 supplies 25 g of carbohydrate; SiS GO Isotonic supplies 22 g. GU Original offers caffeine-free and caffeinated flavors, so the exact flavor matters. These are label-based comparisons, not a claim that one gel will work best for your stomach.
Plan the bike and run separately
Before buying a race supply, write down the course water stops, the fuel you have practiced using, and where each packet will sit. A bike bag may hold a bulky packet easily while the same packet crowds a running-shorts pocket. Use a brick workout to check the change from bike storage to run storage and whether wet hands can open the wrapper. Stow used wrappers rather than dropping them.
| Gel | Manufacturer information | Check before choosing |
|---|---|---|
| Maurten Gel 100 | 25 g carbohydrate per sachet | Distinguish standard Gel 100 from CAF 100; test texture before buying a box |
| GU Original | Caffeine content depends on flavor; caffeine-free options exist | Read every flavor label in a mixed box and follow water directions |
| SiS GO Isotonic | 22 g carbohydrate; designed to be consumed without extra water alongside the gel | Check packet volume in your running pocket; this is not a substitute for your overall fluid plan |
Maurten Gel 100
A clearly stated 25 g serving makes packet arithmetic straightforward: two sachets contain 50 g carbohydrate. That calculation is not an hourly intake recommendation. Include carbohydrate from drinks and other foods in the plan you have practiced. The standard and caffeinated packages are separate products.
GU Original Energy Gel
Consider a caffeine-free selection if you want to keep caffeine a separate decision. A mixed box needs a flavor-by-flavor check; the brand name alone does not establish caffeine content. GU recommends a few sips of water with its gels. Match that instruction to bottle access on the bike and aid stations on the run.
SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gel
The manufacturer lists 22 g carbohydrate per sachet and says extra water is not required to consume the gel. This describes the product format, not your fluid requirements for an event. Compare the packet size against your belt or pockets and check whether you actually like the texture before committing to a multipack.
Before you buy a race supply
- Test the exact flavor, packet, timing, and water routine in training. Change one variable at a time so your notes remain useful.
- Check the event’s own athlete guide for products, flavors, and water locations. An aid-station brand name may not identify the same gel you trained with.
- Inspect expiry dates, sealed wrappers, storage directions, pack count, seller, delivery date, and return terms. A cheaper large box is poor value if it arrives too late to practice with.
- A gel does not become a complete fueling plan because it is labeled for endurance exercise. Use your practiced plan; individual nutrition needs are outside this product comparison.
Sources and methodology
- Maurten Gel 100 product information supports the 25 g carbohydrate figure. It does not establish your personal tolerance.
- GU Original product options show caffeine-free and caffeinated choices. GU’s format guidance recommends water with its gels. Check the flavor you receive.
- SiS GO Isotonic product information supports the 22 g figure and consumption directions. Those directions do not determine total fluid needs.
- We compared manufacturer labels and practical carrying questions. We have not performed a head-to-head taste or tolerance trial. Formulas and retail variants can change; the package in hand takes precedence.
Continue your comparison
Use our Maurten, GU, and SiS comparison for the brand decision, or compare gels with chews if packet texture is the problem.
Can I use the same gel on the bike and run?
Yes, if you have practiced it in both settings. Check access, opening, water directions, and carrying space separately; using the same product does not make the logistics identical.
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Keep the claims conservative and compare serving size, ingredients, testing, price per serving, and whether the product fits your training.
