Weird trail snacks that actually work
Why weird works when you’re deep in the (trail) pain cave
Hang on to those gels and drink mixes. On the trail, some runners reach for pickle juice, gummy bears or even mashed potatoes. It might sound like a picnic gone wrong, but these oddball snacks have staying power because they work. Ask any ultrarunner, and you’ll probably hear the same thing: when your stomach turns on you and your energy bottoms out, it’s the weird stuff that often saves the day.
Pickle juice is not just for hangovers
Don’t be surprised if a trail runner hands you a swig of pickle juice mid-race. The salty brine isn’t just an acquired taste—it’s a fast-acting fix for muscle cramps. Some studies suggest the vinegar might trigger a reflex in the nervous system that helps muscles relax, while the sodium helps replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. Either way, it works fast, and for runners dealing with twitchy calves or locking quads, that shot of dill and salt can be a lifesaver.
Salted watermelon: summer’s secret weapon
A staple at many ultra aid stations, salted watermelon is both refreshing and smart. The natural sugar gives a quick energy boost, while the added salt helps with hydration. Bonus: the water content helps runners stay cool and hydrated, especially on hot days. It’s also easy on the stomach, which matters when your gut’s been bouncing around for hours.
Mashed potatoes in a Ziplock bag
Yes, this is a thing. Ultrarunners have been known to stash instant mashed potatoes in sandwich bags for easy fuelling. They’re bland, carb-rich and surprisingly comforting when gels get old. Just squish and slurp. Add a little salt and you’ve got a high-sodium, gut-friendly source of energy.
Gummy bears: a sugary (and portable) lifeline
When everything else tastes like cardboard, gummy bears save the day. Fast carbs, easy to chew and mentally uplifting when you’re deep in the pain cave. Some runners swear by Sour Patch Kids or Swedish Fish—whatever breaks the monotony and gets sugar to your bloodstream quickly.
The bottom line
Trail runners are practical above all else, and if it works, it works. Whether it’s a weird briny liquid or a childhood snack, these fuel hacks have earned their place on the trail. When you’re 30K into a mountain race with legs made of lead, a handful of salted watermelon or a sip of pickle juice might be just what gets you to the next aid station, regardless of how strange it sounds.
