10 Best Running Energy Chews to Fuel Your Next Run

I’ve tested dozens of energy chews during long runs, and these top performers deliver ideal carbohydrate absorption when you need it most. Skratch Labs provides 19g carbs with real fruit ingredients, while Noogs offers caffeine-free electrolyte replenishment. PROBAR Bolt combines organic certification with natural caffeine, and Animal chews feature customizable 25mg caffeine dosing plus nootropics. Honey Stinger delivers quick uptake with 23g organic carbs. Each option targets specific performance needs and dietary preferences for maximum endurance benefits.

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Notable Insights

• Skratch Labs Energy Chews provide 80 calories and 19g carbs with real fruit ingredients, ideal for endurance athletes.
• Noogs Sour Energy Chews deliver caffeine-free fast-acting carbs with essential electrolytes like 150mg sodium and 50mg potassium.
• PROBAR Bolt Organic Energy Chews offer USDA certified organic fuel with 23g carbs, natural caffeine, and superfruits.
• Animal Energy Chews feature customizable 25mg caffeine per chew plus nootropics like L-Tyrosine for enhanced performance control.
• Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Chews provide quick 23g carb uptake with USDA Organic certification and no caffeine.

Skratch Labs Energy Chews Caffeine Gummies, Sour Cherry (10 Pack)

Skratch Labs Energy Chews deliver targeted fuel for endurance athletes who need sustained energy without digestive complications. Each serving provides 80 calories and 19g of carbohydrates through a glucose-fructose blend that accelerates absorption. The unique drop shape facilitates quick digestion compared to traditional sticky gels.

You’ll get real tart cherry flavor without artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that trigger gastrointestinal distress. The caffeine content supports performance during long runs. Each 10-pack serves runners, cyclists, and hikers who demand reliable energy sources.

The gluten-free, vegan formula uses quality ingredients selected specifically for athletic performance, making these chews suitable for various dietary requirements while maintaining consistent energy delivery.

Best For: Endurance athletes including runners, cyclists, and hikers who need sustained energy and caffeine support during long workouts without digestive issues.

Pros:

• Easy-to-digest drop shape with glucose-fructose blend for quick energy absorption without gastrointestinal distress
• Made with real tart cherry flavor and quality ingredients, avoiding artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives
• Gluten-free and vegan formula suitable for various dietary requirements while providing reliable athletic performance fuel

Cons:

• Limited to sour cherry flavor option only in this 10-pack format
• May be more expensive per serving compared to traditional energy gels or sports drinks
• Caffeine content may not be suitable for athletes sensitive to stimulants or those training in the evening

Noogs Sour Energy Chews, Electric Watermelon (12 Pack)

Athletes seeking a caffeine-free energy solution that won’t trigger digestive distress will find their answer in Noogs Sour Energy Chews, Electric Watermelon flavor. These vegan, gluten-free gummies deliver fast-acting carbohydrates for endurance activities. Each 12-pack provides 150mg sodium and 50mg potassium per serving, supporting electrolyte balance during intense training sessions.

The soft, bite-sized texture eliminates the sticky mess of traditional gels. You’ll appreciate the tangy watermelon flavor that’s invigorating without excessive sweetness. Created by a dietitian and marathoner, these chews use clean ingredients and natural colors. Users report no sugar crashes or digestive issues, making them ideal for long-distance events.

Best For: Athletes and endurance enthusiasts who need caffeine-free energy fuel that’s easy to digest and won’t cause stomach discomfort during running, cycling, or high-intensity workouts.

Pros:

• Caffeine-free formula with fast-digesting carbs and essential electrolytes (150mg sodium, 50mg potassium) prevents muscle cramps without digestive issues
• Soft, bite-sized texture eliminates the sticky mess of traditional gels while providing tangy watermelon flavor that’s refreshing without being overly sweet
• Vegan and gluten-free formulation created by a dietitian and marathoner uses clean ingredients and natural colors with no reported sugar crashes

Cons:

• Limited to only 12 gummies per pack, which may not be sufficient for ultra-long endurance events or multiple training sessions
• May still require pairing with additional hydration products for optimal electrolyte replacement during extended activities
• Chews can become sticky in certain conditions, requiring proper storage in a pouch to maintain texture

PROBAR Bolt Organic Energy Chews, Berry Blast (12 Count)

PROBAR Bolt Organic Energy Chews deliver targeted nutrition for runners who prioritize clean, certified organic fuel during training and competition. Each 30g serving provides 23g of carbohydrates from USDA certified organic ingredients, offering sustained energy without artificial additives. You’ll get 20mg of natural caffeine from Yerba Mate plus essential B vitamins (B6, B12) and Vitamin C for metabolic support.

The Berry Blast flavor combines acai, pomegranate, and blueberry superfruits with added electrolytes for hydration balance. These chews contain zero trans fat and deliver quick energy absorption during endurance activities. Individual packaging guarantees precise dosing and portability for race day or long training runs. The organic certification assures non-GMO ingredients and eliminates synthetic pesticides from your fuel source.

Best For: Runners and endurance athletes seeking clean, organic energy fuel with natural caffeine and superfruits for sustained performance during training and competition.

Pros:

• USDA certified organic ingredients with natural caffeine from Yerba Mate and zero trans fat for clean fuel
• Combines superfruits (acai, pomegranate, blueberry) with B vitamins, Vitamin C, and electrolytes for comprehensive nutrition
• Individual packaging provides precise 30g servings with 23g carbs for controlled dosing and portability

Cons:

• High sugar content may not be suitable for athletes monitoring their sugar intake
• Individual packaging creates plastic waste compared to bulk energy options
• Limited overall nutritional value as it’s designed for quick energy rather than complete nutrition

Animal Energy Chews with Caffeine and Nootropics – Mango

When you need precise energy control during long runs or high-intensity training sessions, Animal Energy Chews with Caffeine and Nootropics in Mango flavor deliver customizable performance enhancement through their measured 25mg caffeine dose per chew.

You can tailor your intake based on intensity requirements: two chews provide quick energy boosts, four chews sustain longer efforts, and six chews create pre-workout surges. Each chew combines L-Tyrosine for mental focus and L-Taurine for enhanced energy production, while sea salt improves nutrient absorption.

The portable format eliminates powder mess and liquid spills during training. GMP-certified manufacturing and third-party testing guarantee consistent dosing. Users report improved workout endurance without digestive issues common with traditional supplements, though some note batch-to-batch consistency variations.

Best For: Athletes, gamers, and busy professionals who need customizable energy levels with precise caffeine control during high-intensity activities or demanding schedules.

Pros:

• Customizable dosing with 25mg caffeine per chew allows precise energy control for different intensity levels
• Portable, mess-free format eliminates the inconvenience of powders and liquids during training
• Combines caffeine with nootropics (L-Tyrosine, L-Taurine) and sea salt for enhanced focus, energy production, and nutrient absorption

Cons:

• Some users report quality control issues and inconsistency across different batches
• Texture and taste opinions vary widely, with some finding it too chalky
• Higher dosing (6 chews) may be expensive compared to traditional powder supplements

Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chew (12 Pack, 21.6 Ounce)

The Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chew delivers targeted nutrition for endurance athletes who demand quick carbohydrate uptake without caffeine interference. Each serving provides 23 grams of carbohydrates for immediate energy conversion during high-intensity activities. You’ll receive 12 individual packs totaling 21.6 ounces in the complete box.

The bite-sized chews combine cherry, orange, and berry flavors in an easily digestible format. They’re USDA Organic certified and include sodium for electrolyte replacement during extended training sessions. You’ll benefit from added Vitamin C supplementation and gluten-free formulation.

Over 2,000 professional and collegiate teams rely on Honey Stinger products for performance enhancement. The portable packaging fits standard gym bags and running belts for convenient mid-workout fueling.

Best For: Endurance athletes, runners, and fitness enthusiasts who need quick carbohydrate energy during workouts without caffeine stimulation.

Pros:

• Provides 23g of carbohydrates per serving for rapid energy conversion during high-intensity activities
• USDA Organic certified with added Vitamin C and sodium for electrolyte replenishment
• Trusted by over 2,000 professional and collegiate teams with convenient portable packaging

Cons:

• May not provide sufficient energy for extremely long endurance events requiring higher caloric intake
• Limited to three fruit flavors which may not appeal to all taste preferences
• Lacks caffeine which some athletes prefer for additional performance enhancement

Clif Bloks Energy Chews with Caffeine – Variety Pack (8 Count)

Clif Bloks Energy Chews with Caffeine deliver dual-action fuel for endurance athletes who need both carbohydrates and stimulant support during extended training sessions. Each chew contains 33 calories and 22-24g of carbohydrates for immediate energy conversion. You’ll get 25-50mg of caffeine per serving, providing mental alertness alongside physical fuel.

The variety pack includes four flavors: Black Cherry, Tropical Punch, Orange, and Strawberry Lemonade. These plant-based chews use organic tapioca syrup instead of high fructose corn syrup. You’ll also receive electrolyte support through added sodium for hydration maintenance during intense activities lasting over one hour. The bite-sized format guarantees easy consumption while running or cycling without digestive complications.

Best For: Endurance athletes and fitness enthusiasts engaging in high-intensity workouts or activities lasting over one hour who need quick energy and caffeine boost during training sessions.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula provides both carbohydrates for energy and caffeine for mental alertness in one convenient chew
• Made with plant-based, non-GMO ingredients using organic tapioca syrup without high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors
• Bite-sized format with variety pack flavors makes them easy to consume during active workouts without digestive issues

Cons:

• Caffeine content may not be suitable for those sensitive to stimulants or training in the evening
• Limited to 8 count variety pack which may not provide enough servings for frequent endurance training
• Higher price point compared to basic energy gels or homemade energy alternatives

Skratch Labs Energy Chews for Running, Cycling, and Sports Performance (10 Pack)

Athletes seeking a natural alternative to synthetic energy gels will find Skratch Labs Energy Chews deliver clean fuel without compromising performance or digestive comfort. Each serving provides 80 calories and 19g of carbohydrates through glucose and fructose for rapid absorption. You’ll consume real fruit ingredients like raspberries without artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives.

The unique drop shape reduces stickiness compared to traditional gels. You can chew them easily during running, cycling, or hiking without experiencing gastrointestinal distress. This 10-pack offers gluten-free, vegan gummies that dissolve quickly for immediate energy delivery. Users report candy-like taste and texture while maintaining sustained endurance performance across various sports activities.

Best For: Endurance athletes who want a natural, easily digestible energy source during running, cycling, or other sports activities without experiencing gastrointestinal issues.

Pros:

• Made with real fruit ingredients and no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives for clean nutrition
• Unique drop shape that’s less sticky than gels and easy to consume during activities without stomach distress
• Quick energy delivery with 80 calories and 19g of carbohydrates per serving using glucose and fructose for rapid absorption

Cons:

• Some users desire higher caffeine content for additional performance benefits
• May be more expensive than traditional energy gel alternatives
• Limited flavor variety compared to other energy chew brands on the market

GU Energy Chews, Variety Pack Energy Gummies (12 Bags, 24 Servings)

Endurance athletes seeking convenient mid-workout fuel will find GU Energy Chews deliver 90 calories per serving in a portable, chewable format that doesn’t require water. Each bag contains 16 mini chews with two servings total, providing energy-dense carbohydrates plus 40mg sodium for electrolyte replacement.

The variety pack includes four flavors: strawberry, watermelon, blueberry-pomegranate, and orange. You’ll get amino acids for muscle support alongside electrolytes that maintain hydration during running, cycling, or hiking. These vegan, gluten-free chews work effectively for endurance sports when consumed before or during exercise.

The 12-bag package provides 24 total servings. Users report positive taste feedback and easy digestion, though shelf life averages three months from purchase.

Best For: Endurance athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need convenient, portable energy fuel during long workouts, running, cycling, or hiking activities.

Pros:

• Convenient chewable format that doesn’t require water, making it easy to consume during exercise
• Contains effective combination of 90 calories, electrolytes, and amino acids for energy and muscle support
• Vegan, gluten-free, and kosher with variety pack offering four different flavors

Cons:

• Short shelf life of approximately three months from purchase date
• Some users may find the chews too sweet for their taste preference
• Higher cost per serving compared to some other energy fuel options

CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews Variety Pack (12 Count)

Plant-based energy chews deliver 33 calories and 24 grams of carbohydrates per cube, making them ideal for runners who need sustained fuel during workouts exceeding 60 minutes. You’ll get quick energy from organic tapioca syrup without high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors.

Each variety pack contains 12 bite-sized cubes with customizable sodium levels. Select caffeinated options provide 60-70 mg of caffeine for additional performance enhancement. The soft, non-sticky texture eliminates the mess associated with energy gels while maintaining convenience during long-distance runs.

You can easily store these chews in their sturdy packaging, though they’ll harden if left open. The assorted flavors encourage consistent use throughout training cycles and competitions, providing reliable carbohydrate delivery when you need sustained energy output.

Best For: Athletes and endurance enthusiasts who need reliable, portable energy fuel during workouts or activities lasting over an hour, especially those preferring plant-based alternatives to energy gels.

Pros:

• Plant-based formula with 33 calories and 24g carbohydrates per chew, made from organic tapioca syrup without high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors
• Soft, non-sticky texture that’s more convenient and less messy than traditional energy gels during activities
• Customizable options with varying sodium levels and optional caffeine (60-70mg) for enhanced performance needs

Cons:

• Chews can harden if packaging is left open, potentially affecting texture and usability
• Mixed feedback on overall efficacy, particularly among some younger users
• Limited effectiveness for activities under 60 minutes where quick energy may not be necessary

Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Gel (12 Pack, 13.2 Ounce)

Gluten-free formulations make Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Gel the ideal choice for runners with dietary restrictions who need reliable mid-race fueling. Each gel delivers 24g of carbohydrates through organic honey, providing rapid energy absorption without artificial additives. The salted caramel flavor balances sweet and savory notes, creating a more palatable experience than traditional overly-sweet gels.

You’ll appreciate the smooth consistency that’s easy to swallow while running. Over 2,000 professional and college teams trust this product for endurance performance. The convenient 12-pack totaling 13.2 ounces offers excellent value and portability. Potassium content supports electrolyte replenishment during extended activities, while the caffeine-free formula won’t cause energy crashes.

Best For: Runners and endurance athletes with gluten-free dietary requirements who need reliable, natural energy fueling during races and extended workouts.

Pros:

• Organic honey-based formula provides 24g of carbohydrates for rapid energy absorption without artificial additives
• Smooth, palatable salted caramel flavor that’s easier to consume than overly-sweet traditional gels
• Trusted by over 2,000 professional and college teams with caffeine-free formulation that prevents energy crashes

Cons:

• Some users report packaging leakage issues that can affect product usability
• Limited to caffeine-free formula, which may not suit athletes who prefer caffeinated energy supplements
• Higher price point compared to basic energy gel alternatives due to organic certification

Factors to Consider When Choosing Running Energy Chews

When you’re selecting running energy chews, I want you to focus on five critical factors that’ll directly impact your performance and comfort during runs. The carbohydrate content and composition determine how quickly you’ll absorb energy, while the choice between caffeinated and caffeine-free options affects your stimulation levels and timing strategy. You’ll also need to evaluate digestibility factors, electrolyte profiles, and texture characteristics to guarantee the chews work effectively with your specific physiological needs and running conditions.

Carbohydrate Content and Types

The carbohydrate composition forms the foundation of any effective energy chew, determining how quickly your body can access fuel during demanding runs. I recommend looking for products containing 19g to 24g of carbohydrates per serving, which provides ideal fuel without overwhelming your digestive system.

The most effective chews combine glucose and fructose in strategic ratios. Glucose enters your bloodstream rapidly, delivering immediate energy. Fructose absorbs more slowly, providing sustained fuel over longer periods. This dual-carb approach prevents dramatic blood sugar spikes while maintaining consistent energy output.

I suggest selecting chews that balance simple and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbs fuel immediate needs. Complex carbs support longer efforts. Most quality products deliver 80-90 calories per serving, matching your body’s energy demands during extended training sessions.

Caffeine Vs Caffeine-Free Options

Caffeine adds a performance dimension that transforms standard energy chews into dual-purpose fuel sources. Most caffeinated varieties contain 25mg to 50mg per serving, allowing you to match your tolerance level. The stimulant increases endurance and reduces perceived effort during long-distance events.

However, caffeine isn’t universally beneficial. You might experience jitteriness or digestive issues that compromise your performance. Late-day workouts also present timing concerns since caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns.

Caffeine-free options deliver consistent carbohydrate energy without stimulating effects. They’re ideal if you’re caffeine-sensitive or prefer avoiding potential crashes. These alternatives still provide essential electrolytes for sustained performance.

Your choice depends on personal tolerance, exercise intensity, and timing. I recommend testing both options during training to determine which supports your specific fueling strategy most effectively.

Digestibility and Stomach Comfort

Your stomach’s ability to process energy chews during intense exercise ultimately determines whether these supplements enhance or sabotage your performance. I’ve found that chews containing real fruit ingredients promote faster absorption while minimizing digestive distress. The glucose-fructose combination provides ideal energy uptake with sustained release patterns.

Texture matters greatly. Softer, less sticky formulations reduce consumption difficulty and digestive upset risk. I recommend avoiding products with artificial sweeteners or preservatives, as these frequently trigger stomach issues during endurance activities. Unique shape designs can enhance digestibility by preventing mouth stickiness and accelerating nutrient availability.

When selecting chews, prioritize consistency that won’t compromise your stomach comfort. Products that dissolve smoothly without residual stickiness typically offer superior digestibility profiles, keeping your focus on performance rather than gastrointestinal discomfort.

Electrolyte and Sodium Levels

Beyond digestive considerations, electrolyte content plays a significant role in determining which energy chews will best support your running performance. Sodium levels matter most during extended activities. Most effective chews contain 90 to 150mg of sodium per serving, which helps replace what you lose through sweat and reduces cramping risk.

I look for products that include potassium alongside sodium. The ideal ratio provides around 50mg of potassium per serving to complement the sodium content. This combination supports proper muscle function and aids recovery between training sessions.

Balanced electrolyte formulations prevent dehydration while supporting cardiovascular function during high-intensity efforts. When you maintain proper sodium and potassium levels, you’ll sustain peak performance throughout longer runs without experiencing the fatigue that comes from electrolyte depletion.

Texture and Ease Consumption

While electrolyte balance matters for performance, texture determines whether you’ll actually want to consume energy chews during demanding runs. I prioritize soft, non-sticky formulations that dissolve quickly without requiring water. Sticky gels create discomfort and distraction when you’re focused on pace and form.

Bite-sized pieces offer superior portability compared to bulky alternatives. You can consume them effortlessly without breaking stride or fumbling with packaging. Unique shapes promote faster digestion and absorption, delivering rapid energy release while minimizing gastrointestinal distress that derails performance.

Flavor variety prevents consumption monotony during long runs. When chews taste good, you’ll maintain consistent fueling rather than skipping calories. Convenient packaging guarantees easy access and storage, allowing quick consumption without losing focus on your running mechanics and pacing strategy.

Flavor Preferences and Variety

Since taste directly impacts your willingness to consume energy chews during demanding runs, flavor selection becomes a critical performance factor. I recommend choosing from diverse fruit-based options like Sour Cherry or Electric Watermelon to match your taste profile. Sweet and sour combinations prevent flavor fatigue during extended training sessions. Tangy, invigorating varieties that aren’t overly sweet maintain palatability when your taste buds change during intense exercise.

Texture influences flavor perception considerably. Soft, non-sticky chews deliver ideal consumption experience while maintaining flavor integrity. Multiple flavor options in your nutrition arsenal guarantee consistent intake throughout long-distance events. Diverse fruit blends provide psychological motivation to maintain your refueling schedule. Consider stocking three to four different flavors to rotate during training, preventing taste aversion that could compromise your energy replenishment strategy during critical performance moments.

Organic and Ingredient Quality

Quality ingredients determine how effectively your body processes energy chews and directly impact your digestive comfort during runs. I recommend selecting USDA Organic certified products to confirm you’re consuming nutrients free from harmful pesticides and artificial additives. Whole food ingredients like real fruit provide natural carbohydrate sources that your digestive system processes more efficiently than synthetic alternatives.

Avoid chews containing high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners, which commonly trigger gastrointestinal distress during physical activity. Clear ingredient labels should highlight natural electrolytes, essential vitamins, and plant-based colors rather than chemical substitutes. If you follow specific dietary protocols, prioritize products meeting strict gluten-free and vegan certifications. These standards guarantee the chews align with your nutritional requirements while maintaining the ingredient purity necessary for peak performance and digestive tolerance.

Packaging and Portability Features

Portability transforms energy chews from gym supplements into essential race-day fuel that fits seamlessly into your running strategy. I prioritize products with individual wrapping or resealable pouches that prevent sticky messes during long runs. These sealed packages maintain freshness while eliminating air exposure that degrades nutritional content.

Bite-sized chews offer ideal convenience since they don’t require water for proper digestion. I look for lightweight packaging that won’t add unnecessary weight to my race belt or hydration pack during marathons. Easy-open wrappers become critical when you’re moving at pace and need quick refueling.

Consider packaging dimensions carefully. Compact designs fit better in running shorts pockets or flip belts. Single-serve portions eliminate guesswork about dosing while preventing accidental overconsumption that could cause digestive issues mid-race.

On a final note

I’ve analyzed the top running energy chews based on carbohydrate content, caffeine levels, and ingredient quality. Your choice depends on distance, intensity, and personal tolerance. For runs under 60 minutes, you won’t need supplemental fuel. Beyond that threshold, these chews deliver 20-30g carbohydrates per serving. Test products during training runs, not race day. Consider caffeine content if you’re sensitive. Choose organic options like Honey Stinger for cleaner ingredients, or synthetic blends for specific electrolyte ratios.