Top 5 Electrolyte Drinks for Runners (Ranked by Taste & Performance)
|
|
Time to read 2 min
Top 5 Electrolyte Drinks for Runners (Ranked by Taste & Performance)
Not all electrolyte drinks are created equal. Some taste like saltwater, others upset your stomach mid-run. We tested the most popular options and ranked them for runners — by taste and performance. Whether you're hitting the Monon Trail or gearing up for a race with the Indy Runners, staying hydrated is key to your success.
Why Electrolytes Matter for Runners
Running is not just about endurance and speed; it's also about maintaining your body's balance. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium play a crucial role in keeping your fluid levels in check, preventing cramps, and combating fatigue, especially during hot races.
Plain water simply can't replace these vital nutrients lost through sweat. Without electrolytes, you risk hyponatremia, a condition caused by low sodium levels, which can seriously impact your performance and health.
How We Ranked Them
Our evaluation focused on several key criteria:
- Taste: Because no one wants to drink something they dread.
- Sodium Content: Essential for replacing what you lose in sweat.
- Carb Content: Important for energy during long runs.
- Digestibility: To ensure no mid-run stomach issues.
- Performance: Real-world testing in half marathon training, long runs, and race simulations.
Top 5 Electrolyte Drinks for Runners
1. Skratch Labs Hydration Mix
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Carbs: 20 g
- Taste Notes: Real-fruit flavor
- Best Use: Hot weather and long runs
Skratch Labs offers a refreshing, real-fruit taste that's perfect for keeping you hydrated and energized on long, hot runs.
2. Maurten Drink Mix 320
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Carbs: 80 g
- Taste Notes: Mild, neutral
- Best Use: Fueling + hydration during races
Maurten's hydrogel technology provides a high-carb option for those needing both hydration and energy during endurance events.
3. Nuun Sport
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Carbs: Low
- Taste Notes: Light flavor
- Best Use: Pre-race or everyday hydration
Nuun Sport is a go-to for runners with sensitive stomachs, offering a light taste and low-calorie option for daily hydration.
4. SaltStick Fast Chews
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Carbs: Low
- Taste Notes: Tangy, chewable
- Best Use: Mid-race cramp prevention
These chewables are convenient for preventing cramps during races, offering a quick and tasty sodium boost.
5. RNWY Foundation
- Sodium: Varied
- Carbs: Varied
- Taste Notes: Neutral
- Best Use: Baseline hydration and recovery support
RNWY Foundation acts as a daily support supplement, ideal for maintaining hydration and aiding recovery.
| Product | Sodium (mg) | Carbs (g) | Taste Notes | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skratch Labs Hydration Mix Loading… | 380 | 20 | Real-fruit flavor | Hot weather, long runs |
| Maurten Drink Mix 320 Loading… | 500 | 80 | Mild, neutral | Fueling + hydration in races |
| Neversecond C90 High Carb Drink Mix Loading… | 200 | 90 | Citrus, light | High-carb fueling during marathons/ultras |
| Nuun Sport Loading… | 300 | Low | Light flavor | Pre-race, everyday |
| SaltStick Fast Chews Loading… | 100 | Low | Tangy, chewable | Mid-race cramp prevention |
| RNWY Foundation Loading… | Varied | Varied | Neutral | Baseline hydration, recovery |
Who Should Use Which?
- Sensitive Stomach: Choose Nuun Sport for its gentle formula.
- Heavy Sweater: Opt for Skratch Labs or Maurten for higher sodium content.
- Prone to Cramps: SaltStick Fast Chews provide quick relief.
- Daily Support Needs: RNWY Foundation supports ongoing hydration.
Common Hydration Mistakes
- Drinking only water: Risks low sodium levels, leading to cramps.
- Ignoring sodium needs: Especially critical in long-distance races.
- Waiting until thirsty: By then, dehydration has already set in.
Don't leave your hydration to chance. Shop Electrolyte Products for Runners to find the perfect fit for your training needs.