What protein brands do athletes use?

December 28, 2025 •

2 min read

According to sports nutrition experts, the global protein supplement market is valued at billions of dollars, with a significant portion attributed to athletes seeking to enhance performance. But what protein brands do athletes use to fuel their success?

Quick Summary

Athletes commonly use reputable protein brands such as Optimum Nutrition, Transparent Labs, and Momentous, prioritizing types like whey, casein, and plant-based blends with third-party certifications.

Key Points

Brand Reputation and Safety: Athletes often prefer reputable and transparent brands that prioritize product safety.
Third-Party Certifications: Certifications such as NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Sport are important for competitive athletes to help ensure products are free of banned substances.
Protein Type for Timing: Fast-acting whey protein is often used post-workout for rapid recovery, while slow-digesting casein may be used before bed for sustained muscle support.
Ingredient Quality: Many brands prioritize clean, high-quality ingredients, including grass-fed dairy or organic plant sources.
Dietary Needs: Plant-based protein options cater to vegans and those with dairy sensitivities, offering complete protein profiles.
Performance Goals: Protein selection can depend on specific athletic goals, whether for muscle gain, recovery, or weight management.

Why Athletes Rely on Protein Supplements

Athletes, from amateurs to professionals, use protein supplements primarily for muscle repair and recovery, as well as to support muscle growth during resistance training. Meeting daily protein needs is important for athletes, and supplements can offer convenience, especially after workouts.

Top Protein Brands Trusted by Athletes

Athletes often choose brands known for quality, effectiveness, and safety, especially those with third-party testing to help ensure products are free of banned substances. Popular brands include Optimum Nutrition, Transparent Labs, Momentous, and Klean Athlete.

The Role of Third-Party Certifications

Third-party testing from organizations like NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Sport is important for athletes. These certifications verify that supplements are free from banned substances and contaminants and that label claims are accurate, providing confidence in product safety.

Choosing the Right Protein Type: Whey vs. Casein vs. Plant-Based

Athletes select protein types based on factors like absorption speed, timing, and dietary needs.

Whey Protein: For Rapid Recovery

Whey protein is fast-absorbing and is often used post-workout to quickly provide amino acids, including BCAAs like leucine, which can help stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

Casein Protein: The Slow-Release Option

Casein protein digests slowly, offering a sustained release of amino acids that can help support muscle maintenance over longer periods. Some athletes use it before bed.

Plant-Based Proteins: Vegan and Hypoallergenic Alternatives

Plant-based options are suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. Blends from sources such as pea, rice, and hemp can offer a complete amino acid profile beneficial for recovery and muscle maintenance.

Comparison of Popular Protein Brands


Brand	Protein Source(s)	Key Features for Athletes	Third-Party Certification	Best For
Optimum Nutrition	Whey Blend	Known for taste, flavor variety, and value	Informed Choice	General fitness, reliability
Transparent Labs	Grass-fed Whey Isolate, Casein	Emphasizes clean ingredients, no artificial sweeteners, and premium sourcing	Informed Choice/Protein	Clean-eating athletes, label transparency
Momentous	Grass-fed Whey Isolate, Plant-Based	Includes added enzymes for digestion, known for premium quality, and minimal ingredients	NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport	Elite athletes, sensitive stomachs
Klean Athlete	Whey Isolate	Hypoallergenic, focus on clean sport	NSF Certified for Sport	Competitive athletes with strict rules
Naked Nutrition	Whey, Casein, Egg, Plant	Features single-ingredient, minimal processing, and unflavored options	Informed Choice (Whey)	Purity-focused athletes, unflavored preference
Orgain	Organic Plant-Based	Uses organic ingredients and includes added fiber and superfoods	USDA Organic, Third-Party Tested	Vegan athletes, organic focus

Conclusion

Athletes choose protein brands based on factors including quality, safety certifications, and the type of protein. Popular brands frequently used include Optimum Nutrition, Transparent Labs, and Momentous, often selected for their high standards and third-party testing like Informed Sport and NSF Certified for Sport. The choice between fast-absorbing whey, slow-digesting casein, or plant-based protein depends on individual recovery needs and dietary requirements. Consulting a sports dietitian can offer personalized guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athletes often need third-party tested protein powders to help ensure products are free from banned substances and contaminants. Certifications like NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Sport verify product safety and label accuracy.

Whey protein is fast-digesting and is often used for post-workout recovery, quickly delivering amino acids. Casein is slow-digesting, providing a sustained release of amino acids, which can be useful for overnight recovery or longer periods without meals.

Many professional athletes use brands such as Optimum Nutrition, Transparent Labs, Momentous, and Klean Athlete, often selecting them for quality and commitment to safety through third-party testing.

Yes, plant-based protein powders can be effective for athletes, especially for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. Blends of different plant proteins can offer a complete amino acid profile to support muscle repair and growth.

Athletes may take protein powder at different times based on goals. Fast-acting whey is often used after a workout, while slow-digesting casein may be used before bed for sustained amino acid release.

Some individuals with sensitive stomachs may consider Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate, which is micro-filtered to reduce lactose and contains digestive enzymes to aid absorption.

Athletes often choose protein types based on their specific needs: fast-absorbing whey for quick recovery, slow-digesting casein for prolonged protein release, and plant-based protein for dietary preferences or restrictions.