I’ve wanted to try Precision Fuel for months. The problem is, I have so much fuel in my cabinets, it’s hard to convince myself to buy more. A few months ago, I decided to order some Precision Fuel gels and chews to see for myself what the hype was all about.
Before trying Precision Fuel, I had a couple of questions:
- Does Precision Fuel taste good? I think it does taste pretty good. I’ve been trying different fuels, and honestly, I’m tired of super sweet products, so I’ve been happy.
- Do you need fuel for a marathon? Yes, of course, you do. Please stop running marathons without proper fuel.
- Is Precision Fuel & Hydration a vegan brand? All products are vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial ingredients.
Here’s my honest, unsponsored Precision Fuel review.
About Precision Fuel & Hydration
Founded in 2011 by Andy Blow, Precision Fuel & Hydration emerged from a personal quest to optimize hydration strategies for endurance sports. With a background in Sport and Exercise Science and a history of podium finishes in short-course triathlon racing, Andy experienced firsthand the challenges of managing hydration, especially in extreme conditions, leading to cramping and other issues.
Andy collaborated with Dr. Raj Jutley, a heart surgeon, who introduced him to the concept of Sweat Testing. This highlighted the significant variability in sweat and sodium losses among athletes, proving that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Together, they developed what was originally known as Precision Hydration, leveraging patented Sweat Testing technology to create a range of electrolyte products.
Over time, the company expanded beyond hydration, offering tailored fueling strategies and a variety of products designed for endurance athletes, from amateur runners to professional triathletes.
What Makes Precision Fuel & Hydration Different?
- Simplified Fueling Strategy
Each product clearly states how many grams of carbohydrates it delivers per serving, eliminating any guesswork. I am sad because I thought there would be specialty mixes for the higher carbohydrate counts, but it’s just “add more mix.” It’s fine, and they seem to mix well, but you can’t fit three scoops in a bottle you are running with, LOL. - Gentle on the Stomach
The products are designed for easy digestion, making them ideal for athletes prone to GI issues. They are also less sweet than other fueling brands, and I appreciate that. - No Artificial Ingredients
Precision Fuel uses all-natural ingredients, making it a good option compared to other energy gels and chews. - Optimized Carbohydrate Ratio
The 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio helps maximize carb absorption and prevent stomach distress. - No Overpowering Flavors
Mild, neutral flavors prevent flavor fatigue, which is common in long endurance events. That was an issue I was facing last year with having only Maurtens. It was just way too sweet for me.
My Experience:
PF 30 Chews:
The Precision Fuel & Hydration PF 30 Chews offer a refreshing take on energy chews. Instead of fumbling with tiny pieces, these come in two easy-to-manage 15g blocks, making fueling simpler on the go. Each serving packs 30g of carbohydrates with a 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio for optimal absorption.
I tried both the neutral “Original” flavor or a zesty Mint & Lemon. They both tasted good with the neutral tasting slightly on the sweeter side. Honestly the mint and lemon was interesting and I’m not totally sure how I feel about it.
They’re vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial ingredients. They don’t include electrolytes do it’s important to get those too. In all, I’m a fan and I generally use them before I run or during trail long runs. Eating them while trying to run fast (as any chew) has been challenging for me.
PF 30 Gel (Caffeine)
The Precision Fuel & Hydration PF 30 Gel is an easy way to get 30g of carbohydrates into your system quickly.
Unlike many gels that are overly sweet or sticky, the PF 30 Gel has a mild, neutral taste to help reduce flavor fatigue during long efforts. I have found that it aires on the side of more sweet. Are any gels truly flavorless? Its smooth texture minimizes stickiness, meaning you don’t have to wash it down with fluid.
This all-natural, vegan-friendly gel is great on its own for shorter workouts or can be combined with other Precision Fuel & Hydration products or real food for longer sessions. They also have a caffeinated version.
I’ve found the PF 30 Gels have been super easy to consume and I generally like their flavor. I have never done a long with only gels, but I’ve found for the most part, the gels go down easy and I’ve been a fan. I don’t have as many caffeinated gels but they haven’t been too harsh for me either.
PF 60 Drink Mix:
The Precision Fuel & Hydration PF 60 Drink Mix delivers a good balance of carbs, electrolytes, and fluids for endurance athletes. It’s hard to find drink mixes with higher carb counts that also contain sodium, so when I tried this I knew it was going to be good. There is 500mg of sodium per serving. W
One serving (2 scoops in 16oz) gives 30g of carbs and 500mg of sodium, while doubling it (4 scoops in 32oz) delivers 60g of carbs and 1,000mg of sodium. I think it’s kind of misleading to see that high of carbs and realize that you just need to double it (to be fair, most brands are doing something similar).
The neutral “Original” flavor helps prevent taste fatigue, making it easy to consume throughout long workouts. I find it tastes like a mild gatorade, which I don’t mind. Finally, it’s vegan, free from artificial ingredients, and Informed-Sport certified.
Cost
- PF 30 Chews: 30 servings for $74.95
- PF 30 Gel: $45 for 15 gels
- PF 30 Caffeine Gel: $59.95 for 15 gels
- PF 60 Drink Mix $49.95
Compared to many other fueling brands, Precision Fuel is more expensive. But I’ve found the milder flavor and additional ways to add more carbohydrates to be worth it.
Precision Fuel Conclusion
Is Precision Fuel Worth It?
I now understand why so many endurance athletes rely on Precision Hydration. The products are easy to consume, mild in taste, and sit well on the stomach. If you’re looking for a fueling strategy that eliminates guesswork and provides steady energy without GI distress, this is a great option. I’ll likely add them to my Los Angeles Marathon fueling plan (which I very much need to get squared away in the next couple of weeks).
Who Should Try Precision Fuel?
- Endurance athletes looking for easy-to-digest fueling options.
- Anyone struggling with stomach issues from traditional energy gels.
- Those who dislike sweet, overpowering flavors.
- Athletes who want a fueling system that scales from short runs to marathons.
Who Might Not Like Precision Fuel?
- Runners who prefer sweeter, fruitier flavors.
- Those looking for an all-in-one solution (since these gels don’t include electrolytes, but you can get the drink mix with sodium).
You can try Precision Fuel here and see all gear reviews here.
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Questions for you:
Have you tried Precision Fuel?
What is your fueling strategy?