Best Energy Chews for Running to Boost Your Miles
Whether you’re chasing a new PR, tackling a marathon, or simply adding a little extra zip to your daily jog, the fuel you choose can make the difference between a strong finish and a mid‑run slump. Energy chews have become a runner’s pocket‑size powerhouse, delivering quick carbs, electrolytes, and sometimes caffeine without the mess of gels. Yet the market is flooded with flavors, textures, and ingredient blends, making it tough to know which ones truly deliver sustained energy without upsetting your stomach. In this post we’ve tested dozens of options and narrowed them down to the seven best energy chews for running, so you can pick the perfect match for your stride.
7 Must‑Try Energy Chews for Runners – Our Top Picks
Whether you’re training for a marathon or a quick jog, these chews deliver the perfect blend of carbs, electrolytes, and flavor.
7. Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chew
Honey Stinger’s Organic Pink Lemonade Energy Chews are the perfect on‑the‑go fuel for runners, cyclists, and anyone who needs a quick, clean energy boost. Each soft, bite‑size chew delivers a sweet‑tart summer flavor that never fades, thanks to USDA‑organic pink lemonade and a blend of natural sweeteners. With 23 g of carbs per serving, these chews provide rapid carbohydrate uptake without the heaviness of a traditional bar, and the added sodium helps replenish electrolytes lost during intense sessions. The chews are gluten‑free, caffeine‑free, and packed with vitamin C, making them a wholesome, easy‑digestible snack you can toss into any gym bag, race‑day pack, or pantry.
The 12‑pack (21.6 oz) is designed for pre‑workout, mid‑workout, or post‑exercise refueling, and has already earned the trust of over 2,000 collegiate and pro teams. Whether you’re sprinting a mile, tackling a long‑distance bike ride, or powering through a home HIIT circuit, these chews keep you energized and ready to finish strong.
Pros
- Fast‑acting carbs & electrolytes: 23 g carbs + sodium for immediate fuel and post‑exercise recovery.
- Portable & easy to digest: Soft chews pop in your mouth, ideal for races, runs, or quick gym stops.
- Clean, organic ingredients: USDA‑organic, gluten‑free, caffeine‑free, with vitamin C for added antioxidant support.
Cons
- Flavor specificity: The pink lemonade taste may not appeal to those who prefer neutral or savory options.
- Packaging variance: Box sizes or labeling can differ, so double‑check the count before purchasing.
6. Honey Stinger Organic Citrus Splash Energy Chews
Honey Stinger’s Organic Citrus Splash Energy Chews pack a zesty punch of pink‑lemonade, lime, and orange, delivering a bright, fruit‑forward flavor that feels like a burst of sunshine in every bite. These soft, bite‑sized chews are USDA‑organic, gluten‑free, and caffeine‑free, making them a clean source of quick‑uptake fuel for runners, cyclists, or anyone hitting the gym. Each serving supplies 23 g of carbohydrates plus a boost of Vitamin C and sodium, helping to replenish electrolytes and support glycogen recovery without weighing you down. The natural sweetener blend keeps the taste pleasant while fueling endurance, and the portable 12‑pack fits easily in pockets, race belts, or gym bags. Trusted by over 2,000 collegiate and pro teams, these chews have proven themselves on the track, trail, and treadmill.
Pros
- Fast, sustained energy: 23 g carbs per serving plus natural sweeteners for rapid uptake.
- Convenient & race‑ready: Soft, poppable chews are easy to digest and fit in any bag.
- Clean nutrition: USDA‑organic, gluten‑free, caffeine‑free, with Vitamin C and electrolytes.
Cons
- Flavor specificity: The citrus blend may be too tart for those who prefer milder tastes.
- Packaging variance: Box size and labeling can differ slightly between shipments.
5. CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews Variety Pack
CLIF BLOKS – Energy Chews are bite‑sized, plant‑based fuel designed by athletes for athletes. Each 2.12 oz packet delivers a quick‑digesting 33‑calorie cube packed with 24 g of carbohydrates and a range of sodium levels, letting you fine‑tune electrolyte intake for rides or runs that stretch beyond an hour. The soft, not‑too‑sticky texture makes them easy to pop on the go, while the assorted Black Cherry and Strawberry flavors keep the palate happy. Made with organic tapioca syrup, these chews are non‑GMO, contain no high‑fructose corn syrup, and are free from artificial flavors, so you get clean energy without compromise.
Pros
- Customizable electrolyte control: Multiple sodium options help you match sweat loss and avoid cramping.
- Plant‑based, clean ingredients: Non‑GMO, no HFCS, and no artificial flavors for athletes who prioritize nutrition.
- Convenient, chewable format: Soft cubes are easy to eat mid‑activity without the mess of gels or bars.
Cons
- Flavor variety limited to two options: While both are tasty, athletes seeking more variety may find the selection narrow.
- Small packet size: At 2.12 oz per packet, you may need to carry several to meet higher carb needs on ultra‑long events.
4. GU Energy, GU Chews Energy Gummies
Fuel your next workout with GU Energy Chews’ Variety Pack – a convenient, bite‑size source of calories, amino acids, and electrolytes that fits right in your pocket. Each of the 12 bags holds two servings (16 mini chews per serving), so you can pace yourself whether you’re tackling a long run, a mountain bike ascent, or a ski session. The chews deliver a blend of amino acids to help maintain muscle strength and curb mental fatigue, while the added electrolytes support fluid balance and hydration on the trail. The pack offers four crowd‑pleasing flavors—Strawberry, Watermelon, Blueberry‑Pomegranate, and Orange—and is vegan and gluten‑free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Pros
- Portable power: Two servings per bag and 16 chewable pieces let you refuel at your own rhythm without stopping the action.
- Balanced nutrition: Amino acids plus electrolytes give you both muscle support and hydration in one tasty bite.
- Flavor variety & dietary friendly: Four fruit‑forward flavors and a vegan, gluten‑free formula keep the routine fresh for everyone.
Cons
- Sugar content: As a quick‑energy gummy, it contains added sugars that may not suit low‑carb or diabetic athletes.
- Portion size: Some ultra‑endurance athletes may need more than two servings per hour, requiring additional packs.
3. Skratch Labs Energy Chews | Gel Alternative | 10 Pack
Skratch Labs Energy Chews deliver the same real‑fruit taste athletes crave without the mess of gels. Each bite‑size chew is made from real raspberries and other natural fruit, giving you a sweet‑tangy burst that feels like a snack, not a chemical boost. The unique drop shape slides easily through your mouth and digests quickly, so you get fast, sustained energy without the sticky, gooey feeling of traditional gels. With 80 calories and 19 g of carbs per serving—balanced between glucose and fructose—these chews provide a rapid energy surge that’s absorbed efficiently, making them ideal for runs, rides, hikes, or any high‑intensity workout. Skratch Labs builds every product from scratch, avoiding artificial sweeteners, isolates, colors, and preservatives, so you get clean nutrition that’s gentle on the gut. The 10‑pack variety gives you multiple flavors to keep your palate refreshed throughout long sessions, and the formula is both gluten‑free and vegan, fitting a wide range of dietary needs.
Pros
- Real fruit ingredients – natural flavor and no artificial additives.
- Easy on the stomach – drop shape digests fast, reducing GI distress.
- Balanced carbs (glucose + fructose) – quick absorption for immediate energy.
Cons
- Slightly higher price per serving compared to generic gels.
- Small chew size may require more pieces to meet higher carb needs on ultra‑long events.
2. CLIF BLOKS Energy Chews
CLIF BLOKS – Energy Chews with Caffeine are bite‑sized, plant‑based fuel blocks designed by athletes for athletes. Each 33‑calorie cube delivers 22‑24 g of fast‑acting carbs, 25‑50 mg of caffeine, and essential electrolytes like sodium, making them ideal for rides, runs, or any high‑intensity session that stretches beyond an hour. The soft, slightly chewy texture isn’t overly sticky, so they’re easy to pop on the go without a mess. Packaged in eight 2.12 oz. packets, the variety pack offers Black Cherry, Tropical Punch, Orange, and Strawberry Lemonade flavors, keeping taste buds excited while you power through miles. Made with organic tapioca syrup, these chews are non‑GMO, free of high‑fructose corn syrup, and contain no artificial flavors—just clean, plant‑based energy you can feel good about.
Pros
- Quick, sustained energy: 22‑24 g carbs + caffeine keep muscles fueled for long workouts.
- Convenient, mess‑free: Small, portable cubes are easy to stash in pockets or jersey pockets.
- Clean, plant‑based formula: Non‑GMO, no HFCS, no artificial flavors, plus a mix of electrolytes.
Cons
- Caffeine amount varies (25‑50 mg), which may be too mild for some athletes seeking a stronger boost.
- Flavor intensity can be subtle; those preferring very bold tastes might find the chew’s sweetness moderate.
1. Honey Stinger Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chews
Honey Stinger’s Organic Fruit Smoothie Energy Chews are a convenient, bite‑size power source for anyone who needs a quick, sustained lift during training or competition. Each 12‑count box packs three crowd‑pleasing flavors—Cherry, Orange, and Berry—so you never get bored of the taste. The chews are USDA‑organic, gluten‑free, and caffeine‑free, making them a clean fuel option for athletes of all levels. With 23 g of fast‑acting carbohydrates per serving, plus a boost of Vitamin C, sodium, and natural sweeteners, they help replenish glycogen stores and electrolytes without weighing you down. Their soft, pop‑pable texture means they’re easy on the stomach, perfect for on‑the‑go consumption during runs, bike rides, or intense gym sessions. Over 2,000 collegiate and professional teams trust Honey Stinger to refuel athletes, a testament to the brand’s performance‑focused reputation.
Pros
- Quick, sustained energy – 23 g carbs per serving for rapid uptake.
- Portable & easy to digest – Soft chews fit in any pocket, bag, or race belt.
- Clean nutrition – USDA‑organic, gluten‑free, caffeine‑free, with Vitamin C and electrolytes.
Cons
- Flavor variety limited to three – May not satisfy those who prefer other fruit profiles.
- Packaging may vary – Slight differences in box design could be confusing for repeat buyers.
Buying Guide
When choosing energy chews for running, focus on the balance of quick‑acting carbs, electrolyte content, and how well the chew fits into your race‑day routine. Taste, texture, and ingredient quality also play a big role in ensuring you can consume them comfortably over long distances.
- Carbohydrate type and concentration – Look for chews delivering 20‑30 g of easily digestible carbs per serving to sustain energy without causing gut upset.
- Electrolyte profile – Sodium, potassium, and magnesium levels should match your sweat rate to prevent cramping and dehydration.
- Flavor and texture – Mild, non‑overly sweet flavors and a soft chewable texture help you consume them while running without choking or palate fatigue.
- Ingredient purity – Prefer products with natural sweeteners, minimal artificial additives, and clear allergen labeling for cleaner nutrition.
- Packaging and value – Portable, resealable packs make on‑the‑go fueling easy, and a price per chew that aligns with your training budget ensures long‑term use.
By weighing these factors—carb efficiency, electrolyte balance, palatability, clean ingredients, and practical packaging—you’ll select energy chews that keep you fueled, comfortable, and performing at your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which energy chews are best for long-distance runs?
Answer: Look for chews that combine fast‑acting carbs (glucose or maltodextrin) with a small amount of electrolytes. Top choices include:
– GU Energy Chews – 20 g carbs per serving, plus sodium and potassium.
– Clif Shot Bloks – 23 g carbs, includes a balanced electrolyte profile.
– Honey Stinger Energy Chews – 20 g carbs from organic honey, natural electrolytes, and a lower sugar spike.
These options provide sustained energy without causing gastrointestinal distress, making them ideal for runs over 60 minutes.
How many energy chews should I consume during a run?
Answer: A common guideline is 30–60 g of carbs per hour of exercise. Since most chews contain ~20 g of carbs per serving, aim for 1.5–3 chews per hour. Adjust based on intensity, personal tolerance, and weather (more electrolytes in hot conditions). It’s best to test your plan during training, not on race day.
Are there any ingredients I should avoid in energy chews?
Answer: Yes—if you have sensitivities or want to minimize GI issues, watch for:
– Artificial sweeteners (e.g., sucralose, sorbitol) that can cause bloating.
– High fructose corn syrup – can lead to rapid sugar spikes and crashes.
– Excessive caffeine – some chews contain caffeine; if you’re caffeine‑sensitive, choose caffeine‑free formulas.
– Allergens – check for nuts, dairy, or soy if you have allergies.
Choosing chews with natural sweeteners (honey, maple) and clear electrolyte lists will reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.
Conclusion
Choosing the right energy chew can transform a long run from a struggle into a steady, enjoyable effort, thanks to a balanced mix of quick‑acting carbs, electrolytes, and easy digestion. Prioritizing products with transparent ingredient lists, moderate sugar levels, and flavors you actually like will keep your stomach happy and your energy stable. Remember that timing matters—testing a chew during training helps you fine‑tune when and how much to consume on race day. By focusing on personal tolerance, nutritional needs, and convenience, you’ll be equipped to power through miles with confidence, turning each stride into a more fuel‑efficient, satisfying experience.
