Choosing the right energy gel can make or break your performance in a marathon, with the fueling around such races being just as important as the training itself. Nowadays, runners are paying closer attention to what they consume during endurance events, and among the many options available, Veloforte energy gels stand out. However, how do these compare to the more traditional alternatives? That is why we have broken down how our gels compare with other options on the market, taking a look at the ingredients, taste, digestibility, and overall energy delivery to runners.

One of the biggest differences between Veloforte gels and the many alternatives out there lies in their ingredients. Veloforte positions itself firmly in the real-food camp, using natural carbohydrate sources and real fruit juices. These are combined with a number of botanical ingredients too, including things such as ginger and lemon, depending on the flavour.

In contrast, many traditional marathon gels rely heavily on glucose syrup or other synthetic sugars as their main source of carbohydrates. Although these ingredients are highly effective and used widely, they are heavily processed and can sometimes feel harsh on the stomach for runners. Veloforte gels are free from maltodextrin and artificial carbohydrates and sugars, helping you avoid GI distress and cramping

Another advantage is that most Veloforte gels are gluten-free, vegan, and free from artificial colours, preservatives and flavours. As a result, this natural formulation can feel noticeably lighter, making it appealing to runners aiming for cleaner sports nutrition or wanting to avoid issues such as cramping and bloating.

Regardless of pace, body size, or gut tolerance, carbohydrate intake is critical for any runner during a marathon. Veloforte energy gels typically provide around 22g of carbs per sachet, using a dual-source belt that combines glucose and fructose from natural sources. This approach supports more efficient absorption in the gut and helps to reduce the risk of any potential gastrointestinal distress when consuming carbs at marathon-level volumes. While some mainstream gels may deliver more carbohydrates per serving, Veloforte prioritises steady, sustainable energy.

Although it might sound secondary, texture and taste during a marathon matter more than most runners might expect. Gels that are overly thick, excessively sweet, or sticky can become difficult to swallow in the race, especially in the later stages. However, Veloforte gels are specially formulated to have a smooth texture, feeling less syrupy and lighter than many traditional alternatives. This makes them easy to consume on the move, without needing large amounts of water simultaneously. 

Taste is another area where Veloforte stands out, as rather than opting for familiar, artificial flavours, our gels feature subtle, natural profiles. These are refreshing, as opposed to being cloying, something that can be a major advantage during an endurance race. However, it is worth noting that taste is completely subjective, with each runner having their own preferences.

An area in which runners commonly struggle with when fueling during a marathon is digestive issues. When on the move, sloshing stomachs, cramps, and even nausea can derail months of training. Veleforte's emphasis on natural ingredients, lower processing, and balanced carb sources, though, helps avoid such issues. 

These energy gels are easy to tolerate, especially when late in a race when the digestive system is under more stress. Traditional gels are not inherently bad, but for runners who have previously experienced gut issues, switching to a natural alternative can significantly improve fuelling consistency and their overall confidence on race day.

Unlike some basic gels and other energy chews and bars, which focus solely on carbohydrates, Veloforte gels also include natural electrolytes. Coming from natural ingredients, these support hydration and fluid absorption during endurance races, partially the sodium, which some of our options come with. 

When it comes to other ingredients found in Veloforte gels, these can be naturally rich in nitrates. This can support digestion further, offering small additional benefits beyond just simple energy delivery. Many standard energy gels and energy bars require runners to manage electrolytes and nutrients through drinks and other tablets, whereas Veloforte solutions provide a more well-rounded option.

For runners who use caffeine strategically when taking on a marathon, Velofte offers options using natural sources rather than synthetic additives. This provides a smoother energy increase for some athletes, without the sharp spikes and crashes sometimes associated with stronger caffeinated gels. Some alternatives may offer higher doses of caffeine, which can be useful late in a marathon, but also increase the risk of jitters and stomach upsets. 

In general, for those seeking clean nutrition, reduced stomach issues, and a more pleasant fuelling experience over 26.2 miles, Veloforte gels offer a well-rounded alternative to traditional energy gels. As with all supplements, though, properly testing these before race day and integrating them into a planned nutrition strategy is essential to find out what works best for your body and mind.