Clif Bar revamped its recipe in those gel packets. The new Clif Shots blend organic fruit, cocoa and other natural ingredients to make a gel that claims to have up to 50 percent more electrolytes than Clif’s previous recipe.
In addition to more electrolytes, the new formula combines two sources of carbohydrate that efficiently work together. Those are organic maltodextrin and organic evaporated cane juice. The two deliver energy to the bloodstream in five minutes or less.
While the packaging looks somewhat the same, the new gels have a thinner consistency. Even when you’re thirsty bordering on dehydrated, the new formula will go down more easily and get you back into shape.
The new gels are available in varying levels of caffeine including 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg amounts. The later is the equivalent of two shots of espresso or one 12 oz. cup of drip coffee. Flavors include the Base Blavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry (25mg of caffeine), Mocha (50mg of caffeine), Razz and Citrus (25mg of caffeine). Turbo Flavors are Double Expresso and New Chocolate Cherry, each with 100mg of caffeine.
Electrolyte gels and drinks saved me last summer on a long and hot ride. But the gels – much like gummy bears – were a little difficult to get down. A syrapy shot will be welcome on my next long ride. It could mean the difference between bailing on a challenging and rewarding ride and making it the whole distance with energy to spare.
