Best Sports Drinks of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Sports drinks are designed to provide hydration, energy, and electrolytes to athletes and those engaging in strenuous physical activity. They typically contain a combination of water, sugars, and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. These drinks are formulated to help athletes maintain their energy levels and prevent dehydration during intense exercise. Some of the most popular sports drinks on the market include Gatorade, Powerade, and Lucozade. Whether you're a professional athlete or simply enjoy working out, sports drinks can be a helpful addition to your fitness routine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BODYARMOR Sports Drink, Fruit Punch, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) Cover#TOP 1
BODYARMOR Sports Drink, Fruit Punch, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)
ftb score rating icon9.8
Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack, 20 Fl Oz - Pack of 12 Cover#TOP 2
Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack, 20 Fl Oz - Pack of 12
ftb score rating icon9.7
BODYARMOR LYTE Peach Mango Sports Drink Cover#TOP 3
BODYARMOR LYTE Peach Mango Sports Drink
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 Sports Drinks

BODYARMOR Sports Drink, Fruit Punch, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

858176002041
BODYARMOR Sports Drink, Fruit Punch, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) Cover
BODYARMOR Sports Drink Sports Beverage, Fruit Punch, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes, No Preservatives, Perfect For Athletes, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

BODYARMOR Sports Drink is a natural-flavored, potassium-packed electrolyte sports beverage that is perfect for athletes. It contains no artificial colors, and it is sweetened with natural sweeteners. BODYARMOR Sports Drink also contains 10% coconut water and 200% RDI of vitamins B3, B5, and B.

What We Like
Great taste and refreshing
Hydration support with electrolytes
Natural ingredients, no artificial additives
Convenient on-the-go packaging
Affordable bulk purchasing options
What We Don't Like
Possible stomach discomfort if overconsumed
#TOP 2

Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack, 20 Fl Oz - Pack of 12

00052000133318
Assorted
Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack, 20 Fl Oz - Pack of 12 Cover
Gatorade Original Thirst Quencher 3-Flavor Frost Variety Pack, 20 Fl Ounce - Pack of 12
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack is perfect for athletes and active individuals. It contains critical electrolytes to help replace what's lost in sweat and provides carbohydrate energy, your body's preferred source of fuel. The pack includes three delicious flavors: Cool Blue, Frost Riptide Rush, and Frost Glacier Freeze. Gatorade Thirst Quencher has been tested in the lab and used by professionals, making it a reliable choice for anyone who needs to stay hydrated.

What We Like
Variety of flavors
Convenient 20oz size
Good quality packaging
Hydration and electrolyte replenishment
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Not all flavors available
#TOP 3

BODYARMOR LYTE Peach Mango Sports Drink

Ad-bm7-75217
Peach
BODYARMOR LYTE Peach Mango Sports Drink Cover
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Peach Mango, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes, Perfect For Athletes, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink is a low-calorie sports beverage that comes in Peach Mango flavor. It is made of natural flavors and contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or dyes. The drink is packed with potassium electrolytes, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it perfect for athletes. Additionally, it contains 10% coconut water.

What We Like
Great taste
Low calorie option
Hydration benefits
Variety of flavors
Affordable on Amazon
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging issues
#TOP 4

POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast Sports Drink

POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast Sports Drink Cover
POWERADE Sports Drink Mountain Berry Blast, 20 Ounce (Pack of 24)
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

POWERADE Berry Blast is a sports drink that provides you with 50% more electrolytes compared to other leading sports drinks. It is fortified with Vitamin C and Vitamin B12 to give you an extra boost. With its high electrolyte content, this drink is great for replenishing your body after intense physical activities, helping to restore hydration and maintain optimal performance. The added Vitamin C and Vitamin B12 support your immune system and energy levels, ensuring you stay in top shape. Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to stay hydrated, POWERADE Berry Blast is the perfect choice for you.

What We Like
Great flavor
Convenient bulk ordering
Good hydration
Refreshing taste
Excellent value
What We Don't Like
Shipping issues
#TOP 5

Gatorade Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher, Glacier Cherry Variety Pack

Assorted
Gatorade Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher, Glacier Cherry Variety Pack Cover
Gatorade Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher, Glacier Cherry Variety Pack, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 24)
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

Gatorade Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher is the perfect drink for at-home workouts as it provides the electrolytes needed to replenish what's lost in sweat. With zero sugar and critical electrolytes, it maintains the same hydration and fueling benefits of Gatorade Thirst Quencher. This drink allows you to replace what you've lost without adding what you may not need, and it compliments your nutritional efforts by having only 5-10 calories per serving.

What We Like
Zero sugar content
Refreshing taste
Convenient packaging
Electrolyte replenishment
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Some flavors less favored
#TOP 6

Gatorade Fit Electrolyte Beverage 12 Pack

Gatorade Fit Electrolyte Beverage 12 Pack Cover
Gatorade Fit Electrolyte Beverage, Healthy Real Hydration, New 2.0 4 Flavor Variety Pack, 16.9.oz Bottles (12 Pack)
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

Gatorade Fit Variety Pack offers a refreshing way to stay hydrated while keeping your health in mind. This new electrolyte drink has no added sugar, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid extra calories. Each 16.9 fl oz bottle is packed with 100% of your daily vitamins A and C, which can help support your immune system. With electrolytes sourced from watermelon and sea salt, you can enjoy the same hydration benefits as traditional Gatorade, but without artificial flavors or colors. Choose from four delicious flavors to keep your hydration routine exciting.

What We Like
Light, refreshing flavor
Healthy ingredients and vitamins
No added sugar
Good hydration benefits
Variety of flavors
What We Don't Like
Some flavors may not appeal
Pricey compared to alternatives

BODYARMOR ZERO Sugar Fruit Punch

BODYARMOR ZERO Sugar Fruit Punch Cover
BODYARMOR ZERO Sugar Fruit Punch, Sugar Free Sports Drink - Low-Calorie Hydration - Natural Flavors with Potassium Packed Electrolytes, Antioxidants, and B-vitamins, 16 fl oz (pack of 12)
ftb score rating icon8.9
FTB Score

BODYARMOR Sugar Free Drink is a refreshing choice for those looking to hydrate without added sugars. It contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors, making it a clean option for your active lifestyle. You can enjoy the natural flavors without the guilt of synthetic additives. Packed with potassium-rich electrolytes, it helps replenish your body during and after workouts. Additionally, it includes essential vitamins B and C, which support your energy levels and immune system. This drink not only tastes great but also provides the benefits your body needs to stay energized and healthy.

What We Like
Great taste options
Zero sugar available
Helps with hydration
Low calorie count
Cost-effective
What We Don't Like
Some flavors may be overly sweet
#TOP 8

Gatorade Frost Variety Pack 2.0

Assorted
Gatorade Frost Variety Pack 2.0 Cover
Gatorade Frost Thirst Quencher, Variety Pack 2.0, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 24)
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

Gatorade Frost Variety Pack 2.0, also known as Gatorade Frost Pack, is a collection of 24 (12oz) bottles of Gatorade Thirst Quencher in four refreshing flavors: Berry, Cool Blue, Glacier Freeze, and Glacier Cherry. This sports drink is designed to replenish critical electrolytes lost during sweating, helping you stay hydrated and energized. With its carbohydrate energy, Gatorade Frost Pack helps refuel your body's energy stores, making it an ideal choice for athletes and active individuals. Tested in the lab and trusted by professionals, this drink is backed by the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. Stay refreshed and replenished with Gatorade Frost Pack.

What We Like
Variety of delicious flavors
Convenient 12-ounce size
Great value for the price
Effective hydration and electrolyte replenishment
Easy to carry and open
What We Don't Like
Smaller bottle size
Not suitable for large thirsts
#TOP 9

Gatorade Frost Glacier Freeze Sports Drink

Light Blue
Gatorade Frost Glacier Freeze Sports Drink Cover
Gatorade Thrist Quencher, Frost Glacier Freeze Sports Drinks, 20 Fl Oz Bottles, 8 Pack
ftb score rating icon8.6
FTB Score

Gatorade Sports Drink is designed to help you stay hydrated and energized during your at-home workouts. When you exercise, you lose essential electrolytes, and this drink replenishes those vital nutrients to keep you performing at your best. It also provides carbohydrate energy, which is your body’s preferred fuel source, ensuring you have the stamina to complete your routine. Tested by professionals, this drink is a reliable choice for anyone looking to enhance their workout experience with a refreshing Frost Glacier Freeze flavor.

What We Like
Great value for money
Delicious original flavors
Convenient packaging size
Wide flavor selection
Good for occasional sweet cravings
What We Don't Like
Seals hard to open

GHOST Hydration Drink Variety Pack

GHOST Hydration Drink Variety Pack Cover
GHOST Hydration Drink, Variety Pack - RTD Sports Drinks with Electrolytes for Hydration - Beverage for Athletes - Zero Caffeine & Zero Sugars - 16.9 Fl Oz, 12 Pack
ftb score rating icon8.5
FTB Score

GHOST Hydration Variety Pack offers a refreshing way to stay hydrated without the added sugars and caffeine. Each drink is packed with essential electrolytes to help replenish what you lose during sweat, ensuring you stay energized and ready for your next activity. The formula includes vital vitamins like C, B6, and B12, supporting your overall health and recovery. Plus, with full transparency in labeling, you can trust exactly what you’re consuming in every sip. Whether you’re hitting the gym or just need a pick-me-up, this hydration drink is a convenient choice.

What We Like
Great flavor variety
Effective hydration
No sugar
Fast shipping
Attractive packaging
What We Don't Like
Shipping issues reported
Buying Guide Image

The Ultimate Sports Drinks Buying Guide

Introduction

When it comes to staying hydrated and replenishing lost electrolytes during physical activity, sports drinks can be a convenient and effective option. But with so many different brands and varieties on the market, choosing the right sports drink for your needs can be overwhelming. In this article, we'll discuss some key factors to consider when selecting a sports drink, as well as provide some recommendations for high-quality options.

Electrolytes

One of the main reasons people turn to sports drinks is to replenish electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which are lost through sweat during exercise. These electrolytes are essential for maintaining hydration and proper muscle function.

When choosing a sports drink, it's important to look at the electrolyte content. Some sports drinks may contain high levels of sugar and other additives, but only minimal amounts of electrolytes. On the other hand, some sports drinks are specifically designed to provide optimal electrolyte levels, making them a better choice for athletes and intense exercisers.

Carbohydrates

In addition to electrolytes, many sports drinks also contain carbohydrates. These carbs provide a quick source of energy during exercise, helping to maintain performance and delay fatigue.

When selecting a sports drink, consider the amount of carbohydrates per serving. Too much can lead to gastrointestinal distress and impede hydration, while too little may not provide enough energy. A good rule of thumb is to look for sports drinks with around 5-7% carbohydrates, which is the range that is most easily absorbed by the body.

Flavors and Sweeteners

Sports drinks come in a wide variety of flavors and sweeteners, which can affect both their taste and nutritional value. Some sports drinks are made with artificial flavors and sweeteners, which may provide a more intense taste but may also contain potentially harmful chemicals.

On the other hand, many sports drinks are now made with natural flavors and sweeteners, such as stevia and monk fruit. These options provide a more subtle, natural taste and are generally considered to be healthier.

When choosing a sports drink, consider your personal preferences and consider trying a few different options to find the flavor and sweetness that works best for you.

Recommendations

When it comes to high-quality sports drinks, there are several options worth considering.

One popular choice is Nuun Hydration, which is specifically designed to provide optimal electrolyte levels. It comes in a variety of flavors and is sweetened with stevia, making it a tasty and healthy option.

Another option is Skratch Labs Exercise Hydration Mix, which is made with natural flavors and sweeteners and contains just the right amount of carbohydrates for effective hydration and energy.

Finally, Gatorade Thirst Quencher is a classic sports drink that is widely available and provides a good balance of electrolytes and carbohydrates. It comes in a variety of flavors, including fruit punch, lemon-lime, and grape.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a sports drink, there are several factors to consider, including electrolyte content, carbohydrate levels, flavors and sweeteners, and personal preference. By taking the time to compare different options and select the right sports drink for your needs, you can ensure that you stay hydrated and fueled during physical activity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Gatorade dominates the U.S. sports drink category, holding a 72.1% market share of retail sales, according to Euromonitor. Coke's Powerade falls in a distant second, with a 16.1% share.

2. What are sports drinks good for?

Sports drinks are advertised to replenish glucose, fluids, and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium) lost during strenuous exercise as well as to enhance endurance.

3. What drinks give you energy for sports?

Examples of energy drinks include Monster, Red Bull, and Rockstar. People use sports drinks to replace water (rehydrate) and electrolytes lost through sweating after activity. Electrolytes are minerals, such as potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium, that keep the body's balance of fluids at the proper level.

Editor's Notes

During our sports drink research, we found 24 sports drink products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 973,519 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sports drinks list. We found that most customers choose sports drinks with an average price of $14.03.

The sports drinks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sports drinks, including BODYARMOR, Gatorade, POWERADE, GHOST. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Sports Drinks Comparison Table

#TOP1
BODYARMOR Sports Drink, Fruit Punch, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) Cover
#TOP2
Gatorade Thirst Quencher Variety Pack, 20 Fl Oz - Pack of 12 Cover
#TOP3
BODYARMOR LYTE Peach Mango Sports Drink Cover
#TOP4
POWERADE Mountain Berry Blast Sports Drink Cover
#TOP5
Gatorade Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher, Glacier Cherry Variety Pack Cover
#TOP6
Gatorade Fit Electrolyte Beverage 12 Pack Cover
#TOP7
BODYARMOR ZERO Sugar Fruit Punch Cover
#TOP8
Gatorade Frost Variety Pack 2.0 Cover
#TOP9
Gatorade Frost Glacier Freeze Sports Drink Cover
#TOP10
GHOST Hydration Drink Variety Pack Cover
BrandBODYARMORGatoradeBODYARMORPOWERADEGatoradeGatoradeBODYARMORGatoradeGatoradeGHOST
Item Form-LiquidLiquidSports DrinkLiquidLiquidLiquidLiquidLiquidLiquid
Flavor-Frost Variety PackPeach MangoMountain Berry BlastZero -Glacier Cherry Variety Pack4-Flavor Variety PackFruit PunchFrost Variety PackGlacier FreezeVariety Pack
Package Information-BottleBottleCanBottleBottleBottleBottleBottle-
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.7
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.3
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.0
ftb score rating icon8.9
ftb score rating icon8.8
ftb score rating icon8.6
ftb score rating icon8.5
Where to Buy