It’s widely recognized that nutrition significantly influences your performance on race day. However, the abundance of available options can make it challenging to pinpoint the ideal choice for your needs. To provide valuable assistance, today I’ll be dissecting two of the most prevalent liquid nutrition choices in the market, comparing Tailwind vs Skratch. One has earned legendary status within the triathlon community, while the other surged in popularity within the cycling realm. Over time, both have evolved into preferred options for endurance athletes across various disciplines. So whether you’re a runner, swimmer, cyclist, or any combination in between. This post aims to cater to all. Let’s delve into the comparison!
The Breakdown – Tailwind vs Skratch
Key Differences
Below are the nutritional and ingredient breakdowns from both of the brand’s “lemon” flavored mixes. As I thought that would make the best comparison.
- Tailwind has a larger serving size at 27 g per serving. Compared to Skratch’s 22g per serving.
- Tailwind also has more calories, with 100 calories per 27g. Vs 80 calories per 22g from Skratch.
- Scratch has a bit more sodium with 380mg. Compared to 310mg in the Tailwind Endurance.
- Scratch also has a bit less sugar at 19g, with sugarcane listed as the first ingredient. While Tailwind has 25g and lists Dextrose (Glucose) as its primary ingredient.
- Tailwind has more carbohydrates at 25g per serving size. While Skratch has only 20g in its smaller serving size.
- Skratch has more Calcium at 44 mg compared to 27 mg. But Tailwind has noticeable more potassium and magnesium.
- Scratch is listed as having 18g of vitamin C. Tailwind does not list having any vitamin c.
- Both options are Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Soy Free, and have no dyes or preservatives. But only Skratch is listed as being Kosher and verified non-GMO.
- Both have caffeinated versions of their mixes. Scratch features 50 mg of caffeine compared to Tailwinds 35 mg of caffeine per serving.
Tailwind Endurance Fuel
Nutrition Information
Flavor: Lemon
Serving Size: 27 g
Calories: 100
Total Fat: 0%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Trans Fat: 0%
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 310 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25 g
Dietary Fiber: 0 g
Total Sugar: 25 g
Added Sugar: 25 g
Vitamin D: 0 mcg
Calcium: 27 mg
Iron: 0 mg
Potassium: 90 mg
Vitamin C: 0
Magnesium: 12 mg
Ingredients: Dextrose (Glucose), Sucrose, Ceric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sea Salt, Potassium Chloride, Organic Lemon Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide
Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Soy Free, no dyes or preservatives
Flavor Options: Mandarin, Lemon, Berry, Naked
Caffeinated Flavors: Matcha, Raspberry, Tropical and Cola
Skratch Hydration Mix
Nutrition Information
Flavor: Lemon Lime
Serving Size: 22 g
Calories: 80
Total Fat: 0%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Trans Fat: 0%
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 380 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20 g
Dietary Fiber: 0 g
Total Sugar: 19 g
Added Sugar: 19 g
Vitamin D: 0 mcg
Calcium: 44 mg
Iron: 0 mg
Potassium: 38 mg
Vitamin C: 18 mg
Magnesium: 3 mg
Ingredients: Cane sugar, dextrose, sodium citrate, citric acid, magnesium lactate, calcium citrate, potassium citrate, lemon oil, lemon juice, lime juice, ascorbic acid (vitamin c)
Verified Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan and Kosher, no dyes or preservatives
Flavor Options: Lemon + Lime, Strawberry Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Orange, Mango + Tangerine, Pineapple
Caffeinated Flavors: Raspberry Limeade
About The Two Brands
In the realm of endurance sports nutrition, Tailwind and Skratch stand as formidable contenders, each with its own unique blend of ingredients and philosophy. And it becomes clear that both options offer valuable benefits for athletes seeking optimal performance and sustained energy.
Tailwind Nutrition, inspired by the thrill of outdoor adventures and founded on the principle of crafting a nutrition solution that aligns with the body’s fuel absorption patterns, has risen to the challenge with its tailored formulas. Tailwind’s dedication to sustained energy, electrolyte balance, and hydration shines through in their lineup. The story of Tailwind is one of perseverance, transformation, and a commitment to customer success. As they continue to support athletes in achieving their aspirations, the personal touch of handwritten names on every package exemplifies their unwavering connection to their customers’ journeys.
On the other hand, Skratch Nutrition, born out of the frustration of artificial additives in sports products and the desire to create nourishing solutions from genuine ingredients, holds its own allure. Rooted in professional cycling expertise and scientific research, Skratch Labs’ ‘secret drink mix’ has expanded its reach far beyond cycling, resonating with a diverse range of athletes seeking “real” and non GMO nourishment. The Skratch team’s commitment to authenticity and continuous improvement has led to the development of products that excel in taste and substance, empowering customers to embrace active lives with confidence.
Which Liquid Nutrition do I Prefer
I’ll start by saying that every person is different. But I know for me, I find Tailwind harder for my stomach to break down later into a race. Leading to the infamous “stomach bomb” that most endurance athletes fear during a race. This tends to be common in the reviews on Tailwind, it either works great for you, or it really doesn’t. On the other hand my body tends to process Skratch a lot better. The lower sugar and carb content, and the use of pure cane sugar is much easier to digest, especially later in a long event. The lower calorie count also allows me to combine it with solid food, which my body craves after 5+ hours on moving. This is why testing your nutrition before race day is so important. Find what works for you.
Closing Thoughts on Tailwind vs Skratch
In the end, the choice between Tailwind vs Skratch comes down to individual preferences, nutritional needs, and the specific demands of one’s chosen sport. Tailwind’s emphasis on sustained energy and electrolyte balance may particularly resonate with some athletes, while Skratch’s focus on genuine ingredients and reduced sugar content might be the deciding factor for others. Regardless of the choice, both brands epitomize the spirit of endurance and the pursuit of optimal performance.
As you embark on your athletic journey, armed with this comprehensive comparison of Tailwind and Skratch, remember that the key lies in understanding your body’s unique requirements and preferences. Tailwind and Skratch both offer their own paths to success, inviting you to explore the world of endurance nutrition and find the formula that best complements your ambitions. So whether you’re conquering winding trails, pushing through the final miles of a race, or seeking adventure in new territories, may your nutrition choice fuel not only your body but also your unwavering spirit of determination and triumph.