10 Hydration Supplements We Actually Recommend
Let’s be real: staying hydrated is one of those things we all know we should do, but somehow it still sneaks up on us—especially when you’re in the zone, whether that’s ripping through trails in your side-by-side, pushing through a long day at work, or, perhaps, recovering from a night that involved a few too many questionable decisions. Hydration isn't just about staying alive (though, yeah, that too); it's about keeping your brain sharp, your body fresh, and your energy up when you're out riding, or tackling that to-do list.
Whether you’re training hard, taking your ATV for a spin, or just trying to focus through an afternoon slump, electrolytes are like your secret weapon. They’re quick, they’re easy, and sometimes they actually taste pretty good! Plus, they help you stay balanced so you don’t end up feeling like a shriveled raisin at the end of the day. And, as a bonus, they’ve been known to rescue a rough morning after one of “those” nights. So, grab your water bottle, toss in some electrolytes, and let’s stay sharp out there.
Below are a few hydration solutions to keep you on your toes and off the couch…
1. Editor's Choice: LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix
LMNT is a no-nonsense, sugar-free electrolyte mix packed with sodium, magnesium, and potassium. It’s designed for athletes who need serious sodium replacement, and it doesn’t use any refined sweeteners or fillers. Instead, it’s sweetened with stevia, giving it a clean, slightly sweet taste without the sugar crash. I personally find (most) of the flavors very palatable, in fact I seek I out their Salted Caramel version which can be mixed into hot drinks – yes, you heard right – to add value and interest to things like hot chocolate, coffee, and necessary evils like warm collagen water...
This isn't something I reserve for special occasions. I drink a packet most days just to fight lethargy while I'm working and stay energized when working out or getting some seat time. They're even great to help replenish salts while you're drinking (so I've heard...). Pop one into a big ass water between cocktails to combat potential morning misery.
2. Riders' Pick: Ryno Power Hydration Fuel Electrolyte Drink Mix
Ryno Power Hydration Fuel is an electrolyte powder designed for endurance athletes who need sustained hydration and energy. It’s naturally sweetened with cane sugar and contains a balanced mix of electrolytes to keep you going through intense efforts. The powder mixes easily into water and has no artificial sweeteners or weird aftertaste. This brand is super popular amongst pro and grassroots racers, covering competitive scenes from rally raid to desert racing and more. Plus, they have a plethora of supplement options to cover the full gamut of nutritional needs.
3. Best on the Go: SaltStick Race Ready Electrolyte Capsules
These capsules are all about practicality – SaltStick packs a perfect blend of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium into each capsule to prevent cramps and keep your electrolyte balance in check. With no added sugars or sweeteners, they’re a quick, no-fuss solution for staying hydrated during long races or hot rides. They were recommended by a certain American two-time Dakar Rally Moto champion ahead of my first-ever enduro race.
These are optimal for a race setting (or any which require constant motion and minimal breaks) because, despite the name, they are in capsule form. Powders are great, but they can gum up a water bladder. Plus, to reap the benefits, you need to consume the entire packet, and that means chugging a bottle of water if you're on the go... And if you don't have time to shotgun 12 ounces of liquid, then you'll have less time to find a safe space to pee in the bushes.
4. People's Choice: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
Liquid I.V. is a hydration powerhouse. It uses Cellular Transport Technology (fancy talk for faster absorption) to deliver hydration faster than water alone. Plus, it's literally everywhere. You've probably heard of it, if you aren't already using it. This supplement is available in most grocery stores and outdoor outfitters, so the brand has had time to build a reputation, which so far is positive.
Being easy to find isn't its only quality. There is a laundry list of flavors to choose from, some of them a bit unusual, like this passion fruit option. And, like their many of their competitors, these supplements come in simple, single-use packets. It’s sweetened with cane sugar, and while it packs a bit more sugar than other options, this contributes to its popular tastes. Besides, they now also offer a sugar-free version if you're so inclined.
5. Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
Nuun Sport tablets are an easy way to add electrolytes to your water without a lot of extra junk. They can even come with caffeine for that extra kung-fu kick of energy. Just drop one in, and you’ve got a refreshing, fizzy drink that helps replenish key minerals lost through sweat. They come in several flavors, all low-calorie, and they use stevia as a natural sweetener, so you avoid the sugar spike. Perfect for staying hydrated during long rides or intense training sessions. My only warning is that tablets sometimes don't dissolve all the way. So be sure to shake or stir up your beverage thoroughly before you accidentally swallow a quarter-tablet-sized salt blast to the face.
6. GU Hydration Drink Tabs
A lot of people recognize this brand for their energy gels, but GU also supplies a fair amount of hydration solutions with their Hydration Drink Tabs. Vegan, sweetened with stevia, and dissolves easily in water. These tablets offer subtle flavors while providing a solid balance of sodium and potassium. They're great for pre-race hydration or post-training recovery, and they won’t give you the sugary crash that sports drinks sometimes do.
7. The "Natural": Skratch Labs Hydration Mix
Skratch Labs prides itself on using real fruit and no artificial junk. Their Hydration Mix is designed to help you rehydrate fast while keeping things easy on your stomach. No stevia or sugar alcohols here – just cane sugar and a pinch of sodium to make sure you’re absorbing water as efficiently as possible. It’s a go-to for athletes, outdoors enthusiasts, and riders who want to stay hydrated and fueled without any weird aftertaste. Plus, it comes in packets for convenience or a large pouch to save on waste and cost.
8. Most Complete: Tailwind Nutrition Endurance Fuel
Tailwind’s Endurance Fuel is more than just hydration – it’s an all-in-one energy and electrolyte solution. Tailwind mixes easily into water and provides steady energy with glucose and sucrose (natural sugars), no fructose. It’s gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for long, grueling rides where you need fuel and hydration in one shot. No artificial sweeteners here, just simple, natural ingredients. Pick up one of their grab-n-go options or the 48-ounce pouch.
9. Most Customizable: Precision Hydration Electrolyte Drink Mix
Precision Hydration is all about customization. They offer drink mixes with varying levels of electrolytes based on your sweat rate. The mix contains no artificial sweeteners, relying on natural flavors and sugars. You can choose the exact electrolyte concentration to fit your needs, whether it’s a light workout or an all-day adventure.
10. Honorable Mention: Osmo Active Hydration Electrolyte Powder
Developed specifically for athletes, Osmo Active Hydration optimizes fluid absorption during exercise. This mix uses real fruit and sucrose (table sugar) to provide energy and hydration in one. It’s crafted to work well in hot conditions, helping you stay hydrated and keeping your power output consistent without any artificial ingredients or sweeteners. The combination of electrolytes and carbohydrates are intended to extend your powerband for longer and feed your body during maximum output.
What are your favorite hydration solutions? We love to know what our readers think, and those suggestions and thoughts are taken to heart. We might even update our lists if you share a good enough (albeit calm) argument.
Become an ATV.com insider. Get the latest news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
Additional Resources
Kyra Sacdalan is an editor and journalist by day, and a PR & marketing wiz by night - with a passion for people, places and things. Someone coined the term 'Cultural Bloodhound,' which is a title she wears with pride. From discovering Haikyos in Japan on a dual-sport motorcycle, to exploring the booming culinary scene of Baja California, racing Go-Karts in Italy to doing donuts in an Ikea parking lot in Russia with professional drifter, or documenting races like the Dakar Rally; the list goes on and with every new experience and interesting idea, she's ready to say 'yes.'
More by Kyra Sacdalan
![Don't Try This at Home: Muddy Crash [video]](https://cdn-fastly.atv.com/media/2022/10/24/8744120/don-t-try-this-at-home-muddy-crash-video.jpg?size=350x220)
Comments
Join the conversation