For walking fast on a long distance event, an energy gel gives you needed fuel without fat and without chewing. Breathing hard and chewing means a risk of choking on a bar or other snack. Drink water after using an energy gel to help it absorb. On long walks, use gel after the first hour and then at least hourly. Gels have approximately 100 calories per packet.
1. GU Energy Gel
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Uses complex carbohydrates for sustained energy without a sugar rush. Flavors include Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Outrage, Orange Burst, Just Plain, Tri Berry, and Banana Blitz. The Just Plain tastes sweet without any flavor but a hint of imagined vanilla. All have caffeine (the equivalent of 1/5 a cup of coffee) except for the Banana Blitz.
2. Carb-Boom Energy Gel
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Basing its energy on complex carbohydrates and keeping simple sugars low, Carb-BOOM is much more refreshing than the cloying, intense sugar goo of most energy gels. Give it a try, you may love it. Comes in Vanilla Orange (caffeine), Strawberry Kiwi, Banana Peach, and Apple Cinnamon in 1.4 ounce foil packets. Also comes in "big boom" size for refilling a gel flask.
3. PowerGel
Eighty percent complex carbohydrates, 20% simple carbohydrates for quick and sustained energy. Chocolate, Tangerine and Strawberry Banana contain a blend caffeine, kola nut extract and ginseng. Tangerine is double caffeinated. Vanilla, Lemon Lime and Tropical Fruit are caffeine free.4. Clif Shot Energy Gel
Decaf flavors Mmm… Chocolate, Razz Sorbet™ and Viva Vanilla, caffeinated flavors Mocha Mocha and Sonic Strawberry (equivalent of 1/2 cup of coffee). The package has a "litter leash" to keep the tab attached.
