Don't Buy Maurten Gels Until You've Seen This 

Not a bad test, I have used both during ultra events and the two don`t compare. the cost value isn't that great between them however, when you consider the Kendall weigh almost twice the weight it makes a huge difference when you consider how many you need when racing, especially when you look at how much we spend to save a few grams on a pair of shoes!! The Maurten also sit far better on the stomach over a long period of time, I used them around UTMB continuously for 24.5 hours, I think you would notice the difference if consuming the two over a full day.

Love the honesty as always. I have been using Maurtens for a few years. For me they are quite expensive, I however its the only gel that has been easier on my stomach. I also for long runs use the Maurtens liquid the night before, the Maurtens and the Solid the morning of the long run. I also will alternate between the Gel 100 and the Gel 100 Caf 100

Great honest video Fordy. I've been Using Gu gels at the moment during marathon training. They are a bit pricey but they taste really good and are easy on the stomach. I take them every 45 minutes on long runs rather than at certain miles. I think a lot of it is to do with the time you take these gels during your runs just like hydration at certain times before or during our runs.

I don't use the Gel 100 anymore more. I use the Gel 100/ CAF 100. There is a noticeable difference between the two products. I use them because I don't get Gastrointestinal issues during, and after a run.

I think Alex Filitti did an even more scientific review where he monitored the glucose levels in his blood and the Maurten did quite well. But the most important point is how well your stomach can handle the gel, so just like for shoes one must test to find what is best for you individually. For me the Maurten work really well and I don't need any water with them but I don't like the taste (and price) that much so I usually take PowerBar smoothies.

Scientific experiment 😂👍 Love it!! I have found that the Maurten gave me issues with my stomach when used in the last training block and at Warsaw Marathon. It appears uncanny how like with NIKE shoes (still now most other brands have caught them up) that so many are talking about taking Maurten due to them supposedly being gentler on the stomach. Even though Maurten do make that claim the main benefit is supposed to be in how many Maurtens the body can process and break down this turning them into usable energy in a given limited time. That's great if you're looking for extremely high level performance and your body can digest and handle it while running hard. My favourite gel in recent years has been the GU Salted Watermelon Gels work best for me in recent years (as replaces salts lost better than most - I am a heavy sweater)). I have used Kendal Mint Cake gels in the past and found them pretty good too 👍

I agree they are expensive, but i use them mainly because I have zero stomach issues with Maurten as opposed to other gels.

You make a good point Fordy. I chose a gel based on whether I like the flavour and whether my stomach is not upset by the gel over time. The brand is irrelevant, generally. I have tried a load of gels over the years I have been running I can say with confidence that non have ever given me significant performance gain over another. They have all, however, supported my energy levels in a race effectively. My point is, by a gel because it suits you, not because the pros are using it!

Great video, there is a lot of hype in running with people wanting the "best" shoes and gels etc when in reality it makes little difference to the majority of runners. I passed a lot of people in my last Half Marathon who were wearing supershoes while I had my boring everyday support trainers on. 🤣

Since using Maurten in the marathon I haven’t hit the wall which is huge in my opinion. I take them as advised by Maurten which is every 4 miles from mile 4. I think the true test is on marathon day rather than on a 20 miler. Those last 6 miles are when it can all blow up. I have only run even splits since using Maurten. I love them and think they’re worth every penny. I know we’re all different but I say to you, use them on marathon day every 4 miles! I reckon you’ll see a PB! 😊👍💪

Definitely love this kind of content. Could even turn it into a little mini-series Fordy vs Pro.

Interesting. I agree the price of Maurten gels is excessive however having tried various gels over the years they do have other small advantages. One is that when you open them you don't end up with sticky fingers and gel dribbling all over the place and the extra thickness makes them easier - for me anyway - to take on the move, they are a sort of hybrid between a gel and a chew in some ways so you can eat a bit, run on, eat a bit more etc without worrying about spillage etc. If you find them too thick it's worth waiting for a water station and combine the intake. The second small advantage is the size and weight, and the obvious colour coding between a caffeine gel and an ordinary one (black & white basically), whereas some makes colour based on flavour and you have to be on the ball to recognise the caffeine ones. As for flavour I like the neutral or lack of a too sweet flavour. Many gels Ive used before are a bit sickly or overly fruity with an underlining medicine taste. But like you say its all down to personal preference.

Good honest video as usual. I transitioned to Maurten gels for my training block for London Marathon last year, as it was to be my first (and yet only) ever marathon and I 'm an "all the gear and no idea" type who likes to pretend I'm an elite! I had used SIS gels before in half marathons with no issues. One thing I would say is that the Maurten gels seem to contain less "rubbish" in them and it's as pure as you can get, which I like. I liked the (non) taste of Maurten and prefer them over flavoured gels, but to be honest, once I've used up my box, I doubt I would fork out for them again (unless I'm running another major, then it's all the gear again!)

Personal preference I think. I tried the KMC stuff at the national running show and I thought they were grim to be honest 😂 I’d say Maurten is easy to palate, not too overly flavoured; I’m using precision Fuel & hydration as they’re like maurten but cheaper, I’ve tested about 15 different types off xmiles so I’ve worked out what works for me! Xmiles is cheap, and FODrunner has a 10% discount code, which is particularly helpful!

I use maurten gels they do help me but seriously expensive no idea why. Definitely thick and need water after that. Used sis gels but gave me stomach issues so I stopped. Great video.

I've tried alot of gels, for me Maurten the winner, though just tried precision a bit and maybe they run a close second but I will reserve comment before much more testing. Love the thick consistency with minimal slightly sweet taste, small pack too. Maurten not 100% better than anything but maybe 10%, the a choice for us then is to decide whether paying double for 10% or so performance is worth it. Theirs to there own.

I’ve used KMC for ages but since being diagnosed with endometriosis I’ve realised that sucralose flares me up badly and my beloved KMC gels (raspberry ofc) flare me up so bad. So I’m currently on the hunt and I know maurten have good ingredients and don’t contain sucralose so I’m intrigued to try them. Even though it’s bitter sweet because I love KMC

I use them sparingly during training to test them, and use them primarily for races. They are the fastest to consume of any gel and barely require water. Oftentimes taking in a gel will ruin my rhythm and I dread taking in gels when I’m trying really hard. (Late into a half M or marathon)

Good know boss fair play. Loving the comparison videos on stuff that's not just running shoes. Running vests then this👍

I've always used the HI 5 gels and found them great

I find the Maurten gel or drink mix works best for me on an empty stomach since I tend to run in the mornings before eating. Otherwise I don’t think it matters too much what I take in any other case. Also maurten drink mix cost about the same as a gel and gives you 360 calories so on a price per calorie basis it’s not a bad deal

Had my first Maurten gel today and it was very tasty. Did it work I have no idea but it had to be the best gel I've ever had.

They are very expensive but they are definitely premium. I think if you're going to train for months for a race it's worth a few quid to have good gels on race day. I wouldn't use them for any training runs except for maybe 1 test run to see how they agree with you or not. Personally I'm happy enough to buy maybe 5, test 2 and then keep 3 for a marathon day.

I like the Maurten gels as they are easier to eat, when not running. And I like the taste. I find they are easier on my stomach. Quite often I take a gel when stopped. Either before an effort or session. But last week, I forgot to take it and took it during a pick up effort on a long run. I found it a lot harder to take whilst running as its thinker. I agree they are expensive. Hopefully as more people buy them, the price will come down? Maybe its just the production margins - but might be naive of me…

Do the gels that are 2.1 maltodextrin to fructose better in your experience then the ones that are just maltodextrin. I use high 5 for my long runs because there around only £11 for 20 and taste nice ,But they and also the normal sis ones are just maltodextrin

Indeed, mate... in other gels, the nasty intensity of the flavor in and of itself invariably causes nausea. I stopped using gel 15+ yrs ago, but if I ever decide to take one it will be CAF 100 hands down!

Great insight. Suppose the question is - how do they both compare to the cheaper gels like Hi5 or Sis?

Personal preference, what’s on the course and whether you want to take water with them.

I agree! I havent tried maurteen much, but what I have tried I didnt like compared to cheaper options. I did one of my best 30 K longruns ever last saturday with half liter 2/5 cheapest apple juice 3/5 water and some salt, one half liter water, and a cheap energy bar from the grocery store. I am not sure If I notice any difference between my self made applejuice sportsdrink and the more expensive stuff. From now on I'll use money on gels for races.

This wasn’t filmed recently anyway, weather looks too nice! I like the Maurten gels, only use them for races though, a bit expensive for using them for training also. Have never heard of Kendal gels, they don’t sell them here in Ireland.

Chris, I think you need to test out which is the best baby food to use. Ben Parkes did a review of gels recently and suggested them.

Have tried Maurten, I think their selling point is that they supposedly cause less digestive issues as the consistency is supposed to pass through your stomach easier to fuel you. Sugar and thus energy wise they are similar to every other gel really so no performance benefit but if you struggle with consuming gels when running then Maurten may work and thus have a benefit there as you can actually get energy into you.

I rarely see anyone mention Torq Energy gels. Does anyone else use them? I love their products - the gels taste great and I have no stomachs issues. I do like their hydration products but find them a bit too expensive. Their protein powder is lovely but high in carbs so I only use it after longer long runs.

Gu Roctane gels for me!:) Lots of flavors and beta alanine.

Aye - agree. Been using KMC raspberry or citrus for this block. Actually felt peaky with maurten by 30km I’m Amsterdam. Defo no performance benefit from it, just a great marketing team, and some big names behind. Sold me a beauty! Veloforte have been nice for me and active root are always dependable (and both are more reasonably priced)

Goes to personal preference and testing. Yes, Maurten are expensive. However, they work better for me than other gels. Some of the other I cannot use - my stomach is unhappy. On race day and for important workouts, I would go with Maurten. Any other day, whatever I can tolerate.

What are the ingredients of both?

I also hate that they're that expensive. However, they're the only gels I found so far that have a more subtle taste. A taste that I can still stomach when taking my 6th one during a marathon.

Biggest point for me and why i purchased Maurten is the ingredients, i don't want Maltodextrine in my products. I'll pay more for all natural.

Thanks

Regarding taste, texture, impact, stomach - I found that maurten gels by far the best.

I'd recommend Mountain Fuel gels myself

Maurten performs when I need it. I only use them in races though. In training I can eat anything I want, even a frikandel speciaal will not upset my stomach then.

Have you tried the refillable Kendal Mint gel soft flask? Be interested to hear your views on this. 🙂

How do we make our own jelly?

Your hair sure looks awesome! Even while running!

Thanks for testing these out. I really enjoyed this video, and definitely want to see more. I totally agree with you, Maurten gels just don't seem worth it. I generally use High 5 gels, which have always been successful for me. I also like SIS gels, which again, have always worked well. In races where gels are given out at aid stations, I personally haven't seen Maurten gels issued to participants, only High 5 and Lucozade gels. Is this because the Maurten are too expensive? As you said, it's most definitely a case of each to their own. However, I think that comparisons like this can really help runners make an informed decision. Perhaps companies like Maurten could offer sample packs, so that runners can test them out before committing to purchasing a whole box? Thank you, Fordy, for such a great video.

i use MAURTEN because it's the only gel i can stomach and the only texture i like of the ones i tried. i also see a boost in performance using them. i also use the 360 drink mix by Maurten. but i only use them during a race because of the price. i use Tailwind in training.

For me, all my "base" mileage and the long run (30km) is fasted. If going a bit quicker I may chuck a gel in. I found the Unived gels are really nice. Like you, I dont feel any different really with different products - although I dont like High5 or SIS. Its very personal. Although theres a lot of marketing $$$ to. Great video. Thanks.

Going to echo what earlier posters have mentioned. For me Maurten gels are easier to get down in a race. Less fussy than a Gu where I have to get all the gel out and then wash it down with a drink. Yes Maurten is expensive but I only use them in races so cost is not prohibitive. Would not use them in training sessions as that would cost too much.

I think the difference becomes relevant when you try to max out your carb intake. Approaching those limits, the Maurten aims to be easier on the stomach because it forms a hydrogel as soon as it gets there. When you take only 1 or 2 gels per hour (ballpark), I don’t think there’s a benefit if you handle cheaper gels well. If you really try to absorb the absolute max amount of calories from carbs per hour: different (and still very individual) story.

I think the main difference for me is that the Maurten works a bit quicker into the system than other gels.

High5 gels - 40g weight, 91cals with 23g carbs. Box of 20 for £11 on Amazon, plus they are used as the gels in a lot of marathons which is a consideration if you don't want to have to carry all your gels on race day.

For me I don't want to pay Maurten prices, however, they are the only gels that don't play havoc on my stomach

Torque gels rubhard and custard always for me

I’ve tried honey, Gu, and clif gels and they all make me need to go the toilet soon after I have them. Maurten does not, it’s expensive, but willing to pay to not have the runners trot

Maurtens are $8 each in Japan

Great and honest review. I've tried Maurten gels because of a client. Well, I've been using Power Bar gels since 2001 (in a 70.3 Ironman - yes, I'm that old!) and not mentioning the price, Maurten gels are so thick that when you are under effort, you have the feeling you are taking more than 41 grams! I'll stick to Power Bar gels, thank you. ;-)

I think it’s horses for courses when it comes to gels and their effectiveness. I’ve found they do nothing for me (or maybe I’m not running hard enough 🤔) I know some people who will swear by SiS gels whereas I find them vile and prefer High5 but then others will have issues with it. In relation to pricing, someone might find Maurten’s works for them. One was given to me and I’m treasuring it until I can find a valid reason/event to use it 😀

Maurten is so thick jelly, I start to using high5 gels liquit a much easier to swallow on race speed 👌 and you can take it without water as well. Only 2g carbs different Maurten 25g one gel high5 23g So am not going to buy maurtens anymore, is not bad gel but not for me 😎

I like Gu gels, for sure.

if you are happy to pay the price for the one you prefer then it's down to the individual.

Always used Powerbar gels and never had tummy problems so stick with them but did you know 10 jelly babies contain 28g carbs and 113 calories cost about £1 a bag 🤔

Dude, Im reading the nutrition info on the Maureten gels and they are essentially the same as Haribo Gummy bears. :)

Ella's kitchen fruit pouches, natural ingredients, resealable lid and less than a pound each. You're welcome 😁

Best place to test these things is in training 👍

I’m not keen on them, the texture is 🤢. My preferred gel is Kendell Mint Raspberry 👍

Maurten, for me, is over-hyped and over-priced product. Basically, it is all sugar. Seth got into GI issues while running NYC marathon. There are others like him because they neglect taking it with water for digestion of all that sugar. I prefer Gu Roctane gels. They are designed originally for ultra events. Better product at half the price.

IMHO. Just for me.. Running *stuff* is a *licence to print money* for some companies - branding and bs is (almost) all! Gels? I won't use them: they are sticky, taste vile etc New runners are *advised* to use gels. I have never (never ever) thought during my 100+ Marathons (inc some *short* ultras) and 70 + other races *I wish I had some gels! * I plod along steadily enough with water, a bar of something.. or nothing! - VM65-69 under 3½hr full, sub95mins ½. Perhaps i would do better with gels 🤔 This isnt criticising anyone! This is about me and my experience. Ludicrously expensive shoes? Surely for most folk (including me at the moment!) losing ½ or 1 full stone would take 5 or 10 mins off a marathon time. KT tape? Don't start me off on that.... I expect even Nike and Adidas shake their heads in envy at the brand bs success of that - various colours? : a stroke of genius!. Phew!

I don't get the maurten hype, no flavour and terrible texture, that said I'm not a fan of the Kendal mint flavours, high5 aqua are brilliant in my opinion

Waste of time.

You’ve totally missed the point. 1. Carbs per unit weight, 2. they are light on the stomach and 3. they are absorbed quickly. Mauten gels are clearly designed to help performance when racing long distance, they won’t do much for you on a social jog!

I don’t mind maurten as they are kind on my tummy but I’ve chosen not to use them this time around and stick with SIS espresso as it’s way cheaper and the only SIS one I can stomach. Other than that I now use veloforte cubes as they are fab. I do think all the hype is down to their influence with elites, semi elites, certain sports personalities just like with clothing brands. As much as in my head I will always be an elite 😂 I’m not and I just need something that does the job and doesn’t see me having any embarrassing moments 🫣