This gel helped me get through my first half marathon last year. Taste is okay and did not upset my stomach.. Will be using them again for a 32 k race this February. Glad you're getting better!
I have tried these multiple times and have become my go-to run gels. They don't upset the stomach and are cheap. The packet can be an issue but I simply switched from a waist belt to a pack so they are easier to carry. The only thing negative is that I don't feel it gives you as much energy as other similar gels like Gu, Huma, or Clif. It's not too much of a difference but I do see a slight difference in the energy you receive from the packet. Overall I use them all the time and love them for what they are. I just wish the packaging would change soon.
Absolutely love these gels!!!! I do agree that they are bulky, so I got one of those gel squeeze bottles. Two of the gels fit in one bottle. The added benefit is that I can take a little at a time, whenever I want. Also the watery consistency makes them better on the colder runs. Last week at Indy, the cold actually made my Gu gel feel like ice, while the SIS was just fine. I ended up getting the bulk pack, so the cost was really not too bad, about $1.50 per, if I’m not mistaken.
I used to use SiS, or hi5. However, I've found gels to be generally pretty poor for energy during a marathon. They are highly concentrated and you end up spiking and crashing blood sugar. If you need fuel during a long run/race (only really needed if running >2 hours), then you're better off with some proper food. I find mini flapjacks, malt loafs, or raw fruit or peanut nakd bars are perfect. If you're happy to carry a hydration pack, or a handheld (I have a small handheld pouch for carrying a salomon soft flask - excellent combo!), then tailwind is brilliant.
I love these things, it's my go to gel to be honest! Its the only one i've found that settles well in my stomach but I will be trying out a couple of other brands in this marathon training block
I love these gels first time I had them was the Seattle rock n roll half and haven't had another gel brand since. GU was my go too but its just so dense compared to SIS
surprisingly, i've never had gu, but i do believe that clif shots are pretty similar. i don't usually have a problem with the density, but i will admit that it's quite dense.
At first, I did not like the SIS gels. The water and gel had seperated, creating a weird consistency. Once I started kneading them before use, I came around. Very easy on the stomach and goes down smooth. I'm now a fan.
I like SiS a lot. It’s the gel I use most often and I can usually find deals. The flavor resembles real food. I don’t have any stomach issues with other products though, so flavor was mostly my rationale.
I may have to try these gels out - SiS have put a few of their 6-pack flavors on sale. It is relatively cheap to try them as they are even cheaper than many competing gels. Note: I am not sponsored or being paid in any way...just trying to be helpful for those interested.
I started using these around Fall last year and I agree, the size of the gels make it difficult to carry. But personally I like that they settle in well in stomach and they’re easy to take in. I’ve tried GU and Stinger in the past and even though they work, my stomach can’t handle them as easily.
That's so coincidence! Yesterday, I decided to get Clift gel Mocha because of your review. I didn't have it yet because I only did 5K this morning. 😄 Will do this weekend if the snow didn't hit us. Enjoy watching your videos!
I live in UK and use SiS as my standard gel (fairly standard here). I forgot my gels when I ran Chicago so had to try the Clif and they were definitely more sickly and did not sit well with me, and I am used to a lot of sugar! Yet to try the Marten gels.
I liked your video !! My thoughts where ( I may have missed it ) did the sis gel have same amount of carbs as the clif ? If not there may be some packing options there that’s outside the box thinking- thanks for sharing your thoughts
Use that treadmill at my gym. When in free run mode just press the up time arrow to put it in marathon mode. The time will then extend beyond 60mins, no fiddling with settings necessary and it resets for the next person 👍
You should try AccelGel by Pacific Health Labs. It uses the 4:1 carb to protein ratio in the gel. The don't have that sticky, overly sweet mouth feel of other gels. And I haven't ever had digestive issues using them. Regular gel size packets and not overly pricey either.
Two questions for you: 1. Do energy gels ever freeze in cold temperature like where you live (Chicago area)? 2. Do marathon races provide energy gels or energy drinks in aid stations or just water and bananas? Thank you.
1. mine haven't. they get real thick and cold and unpleasant to eat when really really cold, but i haven't had one freeze on me. i've had water freeze on me, and that's not pleasant. but never a gel. 2. depends on the marathon. most marathons have sports drink in most aid stations. many will have a spot or two where gels will be handed out. but check with your particular race
Sis has been to my go-to gel for the race. My favorite flavor is salt strawberry (yummy). The texture is quite different from other gel (more watery). I feel my body is easy to absorb it. My concern is the same as you - the size. I normally bring 2 with me for a half marathon race, I put one in my shorts pocket wheres hold another one in my hand. I haven't figured out how to bring 4 of them for a full marathon race... (I was lucky in my last full race, Sis is the sponsor for Seattle Rock & Roll so I can grab them on course)
I wonder how the SIS compares to Huma gel? I love Huma because of its consistency and it's more flavorful in my opinion. But it's bigger than Clif which is easy to carry. SIS looks longer and it might be easier to pull out of a pocket though. I will give that a try!
Have you tried these again? I'm OK with GU, Honey Stinger and Cliff Shot. However, there is a nice coupon from a Strava deal. I'm not sure if should experiment or not.
I haven’t tried these because the sodium content seems really low. My favorite honey stingers aren’t enough for me at 50mg for hard efforts and I saw on amazon these only have 10mg. Might try these for some training though seeing as they’re easy on the stomach. But for races and long runs I look for gels with at least 100mg sodium per serving.
I'm not sure. These are mostly for replenishing sugar. Is that something you need mid-activity? I suppose it could be helpful if you're in a circuit type of situation that lasts longer than an hour where you couldn't eat a bar or other type of food?
size is because of water. no need to drink with these. cliff and gu require water. Personally I like Endurance Tap. Just maple syrup, salt, and ginger. low glycemic no added water needed. little bigger as well but not 2oz big
i go back and forth when it comes to how simple i want my running nutrition. i tried an organic sports drink a while ago, and it made me think that i should just drink watered down juice or i should look for the least organic / most highly engineered product possible. currently, i'm leaning towards more engineered.
@@kofuzi I highly recommend it! It was a game changer for me! The longer the activity the more it seems to shine. I've found the difference less dramatic for shorter stuff. I did a marathon on mountain trails Saturday (5:18) using only a 2L bladder of Tailwind and I felt great! I wasn't even tempted by the fresh pancakes and bacon aid station. I really like their recovery drink as well though I don't think it stands out as much as the endurance fuel. EDIT: sorry for the auto timestamp when I listed my time. I don't know how to remove it.
omg! last time I was looking around for earpods and you came up with a vid. this time, gel. what a coincidence. ps. is it possible to start your treadmill from zero and let it keep going forever?
@@kofuzi I greatly appreciate. For running distance e.g. marathon, half or mini, it's quite ok, I can still follow When it comes to 100 miles or something like that, I lost sense of it. This is the same when talking about weight (pound, ounce) or length (inch). I don't know if this is just me, hope not, or other people as well. Anyway, thank you very much and hope you will help adding the conversion if it's not too much to ask.
Isotonic gels are too heavy to bring along to a marathon - I think. Just train with the dense gels and then eat them just before a hydration station so you can dilute it with water right after you eat it :)
i've learned that running gels are a very personal thing. what works for someone isn't what works for someone else. it's not simply a matter of dilution or texture, it seems.
If they're isotonic, wouldn't it mean it's at equilibrium with your body and therefore have no concentration gradient? Without a concentration gradient, how is it supposed to be any better at being absorbed?
i'm trying to avoid that. ultimately, for the summer, i'll be toying around with the idea of more aid station stops for gatorade and fewer gels. we'll see
This gel helped me get through my first half marathon last year. Taste is okay and did not upset my stomach.. Will be using them again for a 32 k race this February. Glad you're getting better!
great to know! thanks for the comment!
I have tried these multiple times and have become my go-to run gels. They don't upset the stomach and are cheap. The packet can be an issue but I simply switched from a waist belt to a pack so they are easier to carry. The only thing negative is that I don't feel it gives you as much energy as other similar gels like Gu, Huma, or Clif. It's not too much of a difference but I do see a slight difference in the energy you receive from the packet. Overall I use them all the time and love them for what they are. I just wish the packaging would change soon.
carrying them is going to be the big problem for me
Absolutely love these gels!!!! I do agree that they are bulky, so I got one of those gel squeeze bottles. Two of the gels fit in one bottle. The added benefit is that I can take a little at a time, whenever I want.
Also the watery consistency makes them better on the colder runs. Last week at Indy, the cold actually made my Gu gel feel like ice, while the SIS was just fine.
I ended up getting the bulk pack, so the cost was really not too bad, about $1.50 per, if I’m not mistaken.
I picked up a bunch at a recent race expo. Some insanely good deals, which I wasn’t expecting.
I used to use SiS, or hi5. However, I've found gels to be generally pretty poor for energy during a marathon. They are highly concentrated and you end up spiking and crashing blood sugar. If you need fuel during a long run/race (only really needed if running >2 hours), then you're better off with some proper food. I find mini flapjacks, malt loafs, or raw fruit or peanut nakd bars are perfect. If you're happy to carry a hydration pack, or a handheld (I have a small handheld pouch for carrying a salomon soft flask - excellent combo!), then tailwind is brilliant.
a lot of people have been mentioning tailwind
I love these things, it's my go to gel to be honest! Its the only one i've found that settles well in my stomach but I will be trying out a couple of other brands in this marathon training block
i was thinking about you when i was trying this product out
I love these gels first time I had them was the Seattle rock n roll half and haven't had another gel brand since. GU was my go too but its just so dense compared to SIS
surprisingly, i've never had gu, but i do believe that clif shots are pretty similar. i don't usually have a problem with the density, but i will admit that it's quite dense.
Great gels. Ive been using them the last few mths experimenting for the upcoming Marathon/s. Cheers
At first, I did not like the SIS gels. The water and gel had seperated, creating a weird consistency. Once I started kneading them before use, I came around. Very easy on the stomach and goes down smooth. I'm now a fan.
hmm. kneading before use. i didn't experience what you describe, but i'll try that.
I like SiS a lot. It’s the gel I use most often and I can usually find deals. The flavor resembles real food. I don’t have any stomach issues with other products though, so flavor was mostly my rationale.
I may have to try these gels out - SiS have put a few of their 6-pack flavors on sale. It is relatively cheap to try them as they are even cheaper than many competing gels. Note: I am not sponsored or being paid in any way...just trying to be helpful for those interested.
i do like the 6-packs that they offer. it's a nice way to try a handful of new options at a time.
i found the whole Science in Sport line back last October, while shopping for gels on Amazon.
how have they been for you?
5 years later he runs with six of these big boys at London 2024. Love SIS even with the added weight!
I started using these around Fall last year and I agree, the size of the gels make it difficult to carry. But personally I like that they settle in well in stomach and they’re easy to take in. I’ve tried GU and Stinger in the past and even though they work, my stomach can’t handle them as easily.
thanks for the feedback!
That's so coincidence! Yesterday, I decided to get Clift gel Mocha because of your review. I didn't have it yet because I only did 5K this morning. 😄 Will do this weekend if the snow didn't hit us.
Enjoy watching your videos!
thanks so much for watching!
i think we're definitely getting snow this weekend.
I live in UK and use SiS as my standard gel (fairly standard here). I forgot my gels when I ran Chicago so had to try the Clif and they were definitely more sickly and did not sit well with me, and I am used to a lot of sugar! Yet to try the Marten gels.
i do love the maurten gels
I like SIS! The blackcurrant one is really nice
they have a strangely wide array of flavors
I liked your video !! My thoughts where ( I may have missed it ) did the sis gel have same amount of carbs as the clif ? If not there may be some packing options there that’s outside the box thinking- thanks for sharing your thoughts
i didn't mention it in the video, but i should have. the SIS has 22g total carbs, and the Clif has 24g.
Use that treadmill at my gym. When in free run mode just press the up time arrow to put it in marathon mode. The time will then extend beyond 60mins, no fiddling with settings necessary and it resets for the next person 👍
is free run mode the same thing as quick start?
i like the idea of marathon mode
kofuzi Yes! That’s the one
You should try AccelGel by Pacific Health Labs. It uses the 4:1 carb to protein ratio in the gel. The don't have that sticky, overly sweet mouth feel of other gels. And I haven't ever had digestive issues using them. Regular gel size packets and not overly pricey either.
hmmm. sounds magical.
Two questions for you: 1. Do energy gels ever freeze in cold temperature like where you live (Chicago area)? 2. Do marathon races provide energy gels or energy drinks in aid stations or just water and bananas? Thank you.
1. mine haven't. they get real thick and cold and unpleasant to eat when really really cold, but i haven't had one freeze on me. i've had water freeze on me, and that's not pleasant. but never a gel.
2. depends on the marathon. most marathons have sports drink in most aid stations. many will have a spot or two where gels will be handed out. but check with your particular race
I love these, my go to gel!
lots of fans in the comments here!
Sis has been to my go-to gel for the race. My favorite flavor is salt strawberry (yummy). The texture is quite different from other gel (more watery). I feel my body is easy to absorb it. My concern is the same as you - the size. I normally bring 2 with me for a half marathon race, I put one in my shorts pocket wheres hold another one in my hand. I haven't figured out how to bring 4 of them for a full marathon race... (I was lucky in my last full race, Sis is the sponsor for Seattle Rock & Roll so I can grab them on course)
the bulk is definitely an issue
This is my favorite gel.
Great!
I wonder how the SIS compares to Huma gel? I love Huma because of its consistency and it's more flavorful in my opinion. But it's bigger than Clif which is easy to carry. SIS looks longer and it might be easier to pull out of a pocket though. I will give that a try!
i think shape makes a big difference. i haven't tried the huma gels yet, but it's coming. stay tuned.
Need to try and find them here!Thanks
i hope you do. they are worth a shot
I am late to the party, but I am not sure if the one you took was isotonic. The isotonic gels usually don't have caffeine in them
a good point. i'm not sure that they were. but they were voluminous nevertheless
Have you tried these again? I'm OK with GU, Honey Stinger and Cliff Shot.
However, there is a nice coupon from a Strava deal. I'm not sure if should experiment or not.
i take them regularly. not always, but commonly
@@kofuzi What did you use for Houston? I'm a little concerned about the size of the SIS gels if I would race with them.
I haven’t tried these because the sodium content seems really low. My favorite honey stingers aren’t enough for me at 50mg for hard efforts and I saw on amazon these only have 10mg. Might try these for some training though seeing as they’re easy on the stomach. But for races and long runs I look for gels with at least 100mg sodium per serving.
salt is a concern for me as well. at the chicago marathon, there was a nice lady handing out pretzels from a giant bowl. that was quite nice.
Would these be any good for weightlifting? Just interested in your opinion. ..and I mean all energy gels
I'm not sure. These are mostly for replenishing sugar. Is that something you need mid-activity? I suppose it could be helpful if you're in a circuit type of situation that lasts longer than an hour where you couldn't eat a bar or other type of food?
I think I would like these SIS... I will have to try it sometime. I have a weak stomach so I eat dried fruit for runs.
i think these might work for you.
I'm a cyclist. I use the cliffshot Razz. The SIS are to big to to carry.
size is because of water. no need to drink with these. cliff and gu require water. Personally I like Endurance Tap. Just maple syrup, salt, and ginger. low glycemic no added water needed. little bigger as well but not 2oz big
i go back and forth when it comes to how simple i want my running nutrition. i tried an organic sports drink a while ago, and it made me think that i should just drink watered down juice or i should look for the least organic / most highly engineered product possible.
currently, i'm leaning towards more engineered.
Appreciate the video pal👍🏻
Just came across your channel so maybe you've covered this but have you used Tailwind? If so how does this compare?
i have yet to try tailwind
@@kofuzi I highly recommend it! It was a game changer for me! The longer the activity the more it seems to shine. I've found the difference less dramatic for shorter stuff. I did a marathon on mountain trails Saturday (5:18) using only a 2L bladder of Tailwind and I felt great! I wasn't even tempted by the fresh pancakes and bacon aid station. I really like their recovery drink as well though I don't think it stands out as much as the endurance fuel. EDIT: sorry for the auto timestamp when I listed my time. I don't know how to remove it.
that's interersting, so liquids only?
@@kofuzi Yes. Besides it being very effective, liquid only simplifies thing a lot.
I would think hypertonic solution would dissolve faster into the body solely based on the pressure gradient or diffusion?
that's what i would think too, but i'm sure there's something i'm missing
@@kofuzi fu uf
omg!
last time I was looking around for earpods and you came up with a vid.
this time, gel.
what a coincidence.
ps. is it possible to start your treadmill from zero and let it keep going forever?
there is a quickstart mode, but i'm not sure how long that will go for.
@@kofuzi I forgot to thank you for making number in mankind's unit ... as in metric
lol.
@@patois i don't always remember to make the conversion, but it is something i definitely try to include
@@kofuzi I greatly appreciate.
For running distance e.g. marathon, half or mini, it's quite ok, I can still follow
When it comes to 100 miles or something like that, I lost sense of it. This is the same when talking about weight (pound, ounce) or length (inch).
I don't know if this is just me, hope not, or other people as well.
Anyway, thank you very much and hope you will help adding the conversion if it's not too much to ask.
Where gels are available.?
Isotonic gels are too heavy to bring along to a marathon - I think. Just train with the dense gels and then eat them just before a hydration station so you can dilute it with water right after you eat it :)
i've learned that running gels are a very personal thing. what works for someone isn't what works for someone else. it's not simply a matter of dilution or texture, it seems.
have you tried the maurten gel? no need for water with it.
i have. i like everything about them except the price. and maybe the size.
If they're isotonic, wouldn't it mean it's at equilibrium with your body and therefore have no concentration gradient? Without a concentration gradient, how is it supposed to be any better at being absorbed?
i think what they're saying is that the body does not need to take time to draw water from other parts of the body before it can be absorbed.
Are you sponsored by Clif? (Just kidding, although i love the nutrition videos makes me learn of new products)
i would love to be sponsored by clif
sounds like you might need to consider a flipbelt or something
i'm trying to avoid that. ultimately, for the summer, i'll be toying around with the idea of more aid station stops for gatorade and fewer gels. we'll see
It's the only gel I use. SiS is easier on my stomach.
thanks for letting me know! i had no idea there were so many who loved this brand so much
my race day gel.
how many do you carry with you at a time?
@@kofuzi 1 sis gel with caffeine before the gun start
Is this for 15 years old boy
I think it’s the best cuz you don’t have to take water with it.
They are maybe big in size but you have to carry less water
They are easy to take.
Can you please review the free rn 2018 flyknit please?
unfortunately, i will probably not get to those. i think they are a beautiful shoe, but i'm not convinced they are for running.
@@kofuzi OK thanks for replying and letting me know they aren't for running :)
i mean, you could run in them, but not for very long. nike website indicates it's great for 5k or less, i believe
@@kofuzi thanks for the advice love your channel btw
i do not get anything your saying dude
The ones I have are absolutely vile they taste so baf
what flavor was that?
Maurten AND Sis gave me stomach distress... so yeah there's that