It has to come down to reading labels because there are so many product recommendations out there that you can't possibly try them all. Personally I like the Emergence C when I'm hiking and use it like OJ in the morning since I can't possibly carry a gallon of OJ. Throughout the day I just hope to get what I need from food. I may have another pack of mix at night.

My wife on the other hand likes Elete. Eye dropper size bottle that you put 10-15 drops per quart. Works well but make your water taste salty which I don't like. But she eats healthier than I do to.

The key is to find what you like and stick to it. I wouldn't experiment on a ride or a hike. Sucks to find out that the new drink doesn't agree with your stomach and you spend 1/2 your day squatting.

A big part of sports drinks are mental. MOst of the better known brands supply what you need and are a good supplement to a good diet. But if you have convinced yourself that Brand A will give you superhuman power, then use Brand A.

I fight fires in the summer time and have been dehydrated on numerous occasions. Mostly from poor diet, it is hot, your fully clothed and sweating like a pig and it seems like you can't get enough water or food. It is cases like that, that I started using drink supplements and have convinced myself to use them for all physical activity. I have had several Dr's tell me that 25% of total fluid intake is a good ratio for sports drinks. Like I said I don't like the sugar but if gatorade is all I have I will dilute it with a few quarts of water. Give's the water a little flavor and I don't get that sugar blast all at once.