The delivery format added no advantage in this protocol
Nine endurance-trained male cyclists completed three crossover trials: a maltodextrin-fructose hydrogel drink, a ratio-matched maltodextrin-fructose drink without the hydrogel format, and maltodextrin alone. During the 98-minute varied-intensity ride and repeated-sprint test, average sprint power did not differ, and gastrointestinal discomfort did not systematically favour the hydrogel treatment.
This is a useful comparison of formats under one matched carbohydrate protocol, not a verdict on every product or race. The sample was small, all participants were male cyclists, the performance test used repeated sprints, and individual gastrointestinal responses can be hidden by a group average. Read the tested dose and design in the PubMed record.
For a supported cycling or triathlon goal, choose carbohydrate by the complete job: a tolerable amount, practical carrying and mixing, reliable access, and a product already rehearsed at event intensity. Compare one change at a time in training and log intake, fluid, heat, pace, and symptoms. Do not assume a premium delivery label removes the need to practise the actual race plan.