In the world of distance running, fueling has always been a hot topic. For decades, runners have leaned on gels, chews, and specially designed products to power them through long runs and races. But lately, there’s been a subtle shift: candy is hitting the mainstream.
Sure, candy has always been around, but scroll through social feeds or hang out at aid stations and you’ll notice runners tossing back Nerds Gummy Clusters in place of expensive gels. Are gels more scientifically dialed for performance? Probably. But when it comes to the core needs of the long haul—quick carbs, sugar, and calories—the mass-produced sweet stuff can do the trick at a fraction of the cost.
Now, Run Oregon isn’t out here saying to replace every mile with a fistful of candy. But running should be fun, and sometimes “fun fueling” is exactly what keeps the energy up when the legs start dragging. That’s where Shameless Snacks caught our attention—offering a candy-like option that’s actually designed to be a little better for you.
Shameless Snacks promises the taste of your favorite gummies without leaning on refined sugar. Instead, they use sugar alternatives like erythritol and isomalt—both of which have a lower impact on blood sugar but still deliver that sweet punch. Add in some serious fiber content, and you’ve got a gummy that might feel less like a guilty pleasure and more like a clever running hack.
Specs (per bag):
- Calories: 70–90
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 26g
- Vegan
Every pouch clocks in with under 8g net carbs and only 3g sugar, making these keto-friendly and a far cry from traditional gummies that can easily blast past 30g sugar per serving.
The Story Behind the Sweets
The founders of Shameless Snacks built the brand out of their own lived experience—kids who grew up overweight, later transformed their health, but still craved candy. Their answer was to re-engineer sweets so that the joy and flavor remained, but without the sugar overload. The result is a line of gummies meant to satisfy cravings, fuel fun, and make the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle a little less joyless.
That ethos feels surprisingly aligned with the running community: balancing goals, health, and the occasional indulgence. Because let’s be honest—sometimes finishing the workout isn’t about splitting hairs over macros; it’s about finding something that makes the process enjoyable.
Run Oregon Takeaway
Shameless Snacks aren’t going to replace every runner’s gel or electrolyte fuel—but they make a strong case as a supplemental option, especially for those who want their long runs to taste a little sweeter without a sugar bomb hangover. That being said, I found them to be flavorful, yet not overpoweringly sweet – something that concerned me. It’s a nice moderate sweetness without going overboard.
I was also impressed with the amount that there were in a bag. You just never know, but I found there to be an ample number of little gummies to fuel me forward without wanting more.
Whether you’re looking for an alternative mid-run fuel or just a guilt-free treat post-miles, these gummies bring some playful balance to the mix. Running is hard. Snacking doesn’t have to be. And if a bag of Shameless helps keep the energy up mile after mile, we’d say there’s nothing to feel guilty about.
