Gear guide
Marathon & Half-Marathon Fueling: Gels, Chews, and Carrying It All
The wall at mile 18 is usually a fueling failure, not a fitness one. The rule of thumb: 30–60g of carbs per hour after the first hour, practiced on long runs until your stomach agrees. These are the products you'll see at every marathon start line in America.
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1. GU Energy Gel variety pack
The default for a reason — 22g carbs, every flavor imaginable, and available at mile 17 of half the majors (so train with what the course serves).
See it on Amazon →2. Maurten Gel 100
The premium pick — hydrogel tech that's gentler on sensitive stomachs. What most of the elite field is carrying.
See it on Amazon →3. Honey Stinger energy chews
For runners who can't do gel texture. Chews let you dose gradually instead of all at once.
See it on Amazon →4. SIS GO Isotonic gels
Isotonic = no water needed to wash it down. Handy when the next aid station is two miles out.
See it on Amazon →5. Handheld bottle with gel pocket (Nathan)
If the course's aid stations are sparse (check your race page), carry your own fluids and skip the crowds at the tables.
See it on Amazon →6. FlipBelt running belt
Holds 4–6 gels plus a phone without bounce. The thing every marathoner wishes they'd bought sooner.
See it on Amazon →More guides
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