Review: SkratchLabs Hydration Drink
With so many sports hydration brands out there, it can be difficult to know which one to use. The best method is trial and error, using different options in training to see what flavours you like and which ones may upset your stomach. As someone that’s often doing very long workouts and races, getting my hydration right is a massive part of performance. I came across Skratch thanks to a small sample in a goodie bag at an event. Immediately loved the flavour, which then motivated me to get more and delve deeper into testing it out.
One of the main differences between Skratch and others in the market is they don’t use artificial sweeteners, isolates, colours, or preservatives that might cause GI distress. Also, they don’t rely on using Stevia as a sweetener, instead opting for natural sources and keeping the flavours true to the label and not like a cordial. In practice, it’s a basic product to use. It easily mixes with water, dissolving quickly and with a good stir you don’t end up with chunks settling on the bottom.
Most people will want to consume one serving with 350-500ml of water, per hour of exercise. Personally, I opt for 350mL at the start of a long run and then decrease the concentration by having more water as time passes. For example, I will have two soft flasks, with one more dilute than the other. This for me helps to keep enjoying the flavour, avoiding ‘flavour fatigue’, which is when you simply can’t face taking another mouthful of the drink and enduring the artificially sweetened taste.I’ve found the Skratch range to be a gamechanger in the sense of enjoyment of the flavours and performance. It doesn’t irritate the stomach or create nausea, and has a nice amount of electrolytes and energy to supplement the intake I get from other sources (Skratch Energy chews and bar reviews coming soon!). I also like to alternate flovours, with pineapple and Lemon & Lime being the favourites.
SkratchLabs hydration powder is available in a range of flavours including Strawberry Lemonade, Pineapple, Lemon and Lime, Orange and Fruit Punch. You can get it in large bags or boxes of 20 individual serve sachets. SkratchLabs products are all non-GMO, Gluten-Free and Kosher, and they’re made in the US and Canada.