I’ve been using Huma CHIA energy gels for every race, and to be fair, they’ve always delivered. Reliable energy, decent taste, and no major issues on the road. But while casually browsing online, I came across an ad for something different: Raw 30, an unflavored gel with caffeine. It didn’t try to impress with flavors or branding. It looked stripped down and performance-focused. That alone got my attention. I ordered a few sachets, not expecting much, just curious if it could match or even outperform what I’ve been using.
What stood out immediately was the formulation. Raw 30 uses a dual-source carbohydrate system with maltodextrin and sugar, delivering 120 calories and 30 grams of carbs per gel. This combination allows faster absorption since the body can process them through different pathways, which can improve energy delivery during intense efforts. On top of that, it packs a strong electrolyte profile. With 220mg of sodium per serving, plus potassium, calcium, and magnesium, it’s clearly designed for runners dealing with heavy sweat loss, especially in hot conditions like here in the Philippines.
Another key feature is the 75mg of caffeine sourced from guarana extract. That’s roughly equivalent to a cup of coffee, enough to provide a noticeable boost without being overwhelming. It helps reduce the perception of effort and delays fatigue, which becomes critical in the later stages of a run. The gel also includes ingredients like sodium alginate and xanthan gum to improve texture and digestion, and it’s produced in a facility free from common allergens. It’s simple, functional, and clearly engineered with performance in mind.
That said, switching gels isn’t something you rush. Huma still works, and there’s value in familiarity. Raw 30 looks promising on paper, but real performance shows up during actual runs. The recommended intake is one gel every 30 to 45 minutes, but more importantly, it needs to be tested in training first. For now, I’m in the trial phase. If it proves consistent, especially during longer distances, it might quietly replace Huma in my race routine.
