I was curious to try Chargel. I saw them at the Los Angeles Marathon, and they looked interesting. Plus, the 45 grams of carbohydrates seemed great to me!
Chargel offers a unique twist on traditional energy gels with its gel drink format, delivering instant energy in a refreshing, easy-to-consume pouch. This review dives into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of Chargel, focusing on its suitability for runners and other athletes.
Before Trying Chargel, I Had a Couple of Questions
Does Chargel taste good?
I think so. It’s one of the better-tasting gels available right now.
Why are the packages of Chargel so big?
The package size is definitely the biggest con. It can be next to impossible to carry multiple pouches for a marathon or long race, but the consistency makes it harder to fit into a smaller package.
Now, let’s get into an honest Chargel review.
About the Brand
Chargel is a product by Morinaga & Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based food and beverage company with global operations. Known for innovative products, Morinaga has crafted Chargel to meet the needs of athletes looking for clean, quick, and effective energy solutions. The product is manufactured in the Chubu Region of Japan and brings Japanese expertise in gel drinks to the U.S. market.
About Chargel
Chargel is a 180-calorie gel drink packed with 45 grams of carbohydrates, designed to provide instant energy before or during workouts. It includes a Vitamin B-Complex to help convert carbohydrates into usable energy.
Key Features:
- Flavors: Green Apple, Strawberry, and White Grape
- Calories: 180 per pouch (6.35 oz / 180 grams)
- Free From: Caffeine, gluten, artificial sweeteners, high-fructose corn syrup, and nine major allergens
- Plant-Based & Certified: Informed Choice certified, ensuring a clean product for athletes
Chargel’s gel drink format includes gelatin-like flakes for a unique texture that some may find enjoyable. The resealable pouch allows for flexible consumption, making it convenient for pre- or mid-workout use. During marathon training, I usually consume the entire gel package at once, but it’s nice that you don’t have to.
My Experience with Chargel
I’ve tried Chargel on multiple runs and have had a positive experience. The biggest hindrance for me is carrying them—there’s only so much I can fit into my pocket. With my cell phone and water bottle, I can usually max out at just two or three.
- Taste: I’ve tried all of the flavors now. I appreciate that Chargel is sweet without being overpowering. I really like the flavor.
- Texture: If you’re new to Chargel, you’ll be surprised by the gelatin flakes. If you’re not used to that, it can be a bit overwhelming or even harsh on the stomach. I haven’t had any stomach issues, but I will say the texture surprised me.
- Performance: I definitely notice a difference when taking these gels, and so far, I’ve been happy with them.
- Carbohydrates: With 45 grams of carbohydrates, I’ve been super pleased to up my carb intake on runs.
- Package Size: When running, the package size is definitely a downside. I simply cannot carry that many gels.
Price
Chargel is priced at $20.94 per box (6 pouches), or approximately $3.49 per pouch. This puts it in the mid-range for similar products. It’s not the most expensive but also not the cheapest. That being said, it is one of the more affordable gels for the amount of carbohydrates you get.
Chargel Conclusion
Chargel is a solid option for those seeking a unique energy gel for endurance sports. I appreciate that it tastes good and provides 45 grams of carbohydrates versus the usual 25-30 grams. The downside is the packaging size, but if you can figure out how to carry them, you should be good. I hope eventually they can figure out a more compact way to package them because it would make them a lot easier for running.
Who Should Buy Chargel
- Runners, cyclists, and other athletes needing quick energy for moderate to high-intensity workouts
- Those seeking a caffeine-free, allergen-free energy source
- Athletes looking for a clean, Informed Choice-certified product
Who Should Not Buy Chargel
- Budget-conscious athletes who prefer less expensive fueling options
- Those who don’t have a way to carry them during runs or rides
- Athletes looking for products with significant electrolytes
Would I use Chargel again? Yes, but mostly for shorter races or training runs where carrying multiple pouches isn’t an issue. If you’ve tried Chargel, let me know your thoughts!
You can purchase Chargel here and see all gear reviews here.
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite gel?
Are you training for anything right now?