How We Evaluated
This is a desk-researched comparison, not a clinical study or a hands-on test of every product. We checked current manufacturer labels and listed US prices on July 20, 2026, then compared products for ultramarathon fueling across four criteria: carbohydrate per serving, format and mixing practicality, sodium context, and suitability for building an individualized plan. The scores are editorial fit indicators within this shortlist, not laboratory measurements or proof of gut tolerance.
#1 — Tailwind Endurance Fuel
Tailwind's current Endurance Fuel page lists vegan and dairy-free formulations and both caffeinated and non-caffeinated flavors. Claims such as "easy on the stomach" are manufacturer claims, not a guarantee. Test the planned concentration in training, track caffeine separately, and avoid forcing fluid merely to hit a calorie target.
#2 — Maurten Gel 100
The official Gel 100 page lists six ingredients and a 0.8:1 fructose-to-glucose ratio. That label information does not establish that it will prevent nausea or outperform another gel for a particular runner. Test the texture, dose, and timing repeatedly in training. Learn more about what ultrarunners eat during races.
How to Build Your Nutrition Plan
Start with total carbohydrate: Count carbohydrate from drinks, gels, and food together rather than stacking manufacturer serving suggestions.
Keep fluid responsive: A drink mix ties fuel to fluid; consider whether heat, thirst, and pace require those needs to be managed separately.
Individualize sodium: High-sodium products such as PH 1500 or LMNT are options, not defaults, and do not prevent hyponatremia if you overdrink.
Practice the whole system: Test concentration, texture, flavor fatigue, caffeine, and solid-food alternatives during training. See our gut training protocol and hydration and sodium guide.
Sources
- International Society of Sports Nutrition — Position stand on single-stage ultramarathon nutrition
- Hew-Butler et al. — Third International Exercise-Associated Hyponatremia Consensus Statement
- Maurten — Gel 100 official label and usage information
- Spring Energy — Awesome Sauce current nutrition label
- Precision Fuel & Hydration — PH 1500 official product information
- Skratch Labs — Super High-Carb official product information
- LMNT — LMNT official nutrition information
- Product labels and manufacturer-listed US prices verified July 20, 2026; formulations, packaging, and prices can change.
- Multiday Running — Gear review methodology