The Best Fuel of 2017
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Performance snacks get a natural makeover.
AlpineAire Guacamole
Thanks to the geniuses at Alpine-Aire, guac is no longer a luxury reserved for glamping with a well-stocked cooler—it’s a trail-ready hors d’oeuvre you’ve earned after hiking miles in the backcountry. Just add water to the 1.4-ounce package, filled with freeze-dried avocado, onion, and serrano pepper. Don’t forget the chips.
Price $9
I Heart Keenwah Sweet Chili Quinoa Puffs
Sure, you can cook quinoa while backpacking. The seed is easy to prepare and protein-rich, but it’s also bland on its own. That’s why we like these snackable puffs, infused with zesty jalapeño and habanero flavor.
Price $3.50
33Shake Chia Energy Gel
Chia seeds—packed with carbs, protein, omega-3’s, and antioxidants—are tiny performance enhancers for endurance athletes. We slipped a few of these 21-gram packets into our jersey on race day for quick energy.
Price $27.50 for 10
Barnana Peanut Butter Banana Bites
This is basically a peanut butter and banana sandwich without the bread. Barnana bites, loaded with potassium and carbs, taste like real food, which is why they quickly became our pre-workout go-to.
Price $15 for 3
Honey Stinger Gluten Free Organic Cinnamon Waffles
No one does winter fuel better than the Dutch, inventors of the stroopwafel. Honey Stinger’s take on the classic: two thin, gluten-free wafers layered around a sweet honey filling. Warm over a cup of coffee and enjoy.
Price $24 for 6
Wildway Grain Free Vanilla Bean Espresso Granola
Wildway created the Platonic ideal of gorp by adding organic dates, fair-trade espresso, and vanilla beans. Artificial sweeteners, you’re not invited.
Price $8