Best Protein Powder for Glute Growth (2024 Review)

August 10, 2024

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Protein is key when it comes to building any muscle, including the glutes. Failure to consume enough protein on a daily basis will result in sub-par glute gains. But, achieving daily protein targets is not always easy. That’s where protein powder steps in. Having a trusty protein shake is a quick, convenient, and affordable way of helping you hit your protein targets and grow your booty.

But with hundreds of brands on the market, which one should you choose? Luckily for you, we have tested over 70 different protein shakes. We bring you a list of the best protein powders for glute growth, catering to different dietary and personal requirements.

Ready to discover the best options? Let’s jump in!

 

Best Protein Powder For Glute Growth - At A Glance

Finding the perfect protein powder to support glute growth can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s hard to know which one will give you the best results. Here’s a quick overview of the top protein powders that can help you achieve your glute-building goals efficiently and effectively.

Category	Product Name
Best Whey Protein For Glute Growth	Transparent Labs
Best Vegan Protein For Glute Growth	Promix Vegan
Best Protein Without Artificial Sweeteners	Legion Whey+
Best Lactose-Free Protein Powder	Naked Pea
Best Organic Protein Powder	Garden of Life
Best Affordable Protein Powder	Nutricost Protein Concentrate
Best Casein Protein Powder	Levels
Best Mass Gainer	Dymatize Mass

 

Glute Building Fundamentals

Before jumping in and revealing the best protein powders for glute growth, we’d be doing you a disservice if we didn’t touch on the fundamental glute-building points:

 

Protein for Glute Growth

As we mentioned in the introduction, to build the glutes (and any other muscle), it’s crucial to consume enough protein. If you’re unsure how much is enough, check out our recent article, “How Much Protein Do I Need to Grow the Glutes.”

A protein shake isn’t a magical muscle-building milkshake – it’s simply a way to help you achieve your daily protein targets. If you can hit your protein targets through food alone, then you don’t need a protein shake. But it’s not always easy to hit protein targets.

We all live busy lives with work, family, and social commitments. So having a protein shake available is a handy way to get 20-30 grams of protein into our diet quickly and conveniently. This ensures you’re supporting your glute growth, even on the busiest days.

 

Working Out For Glute Growth

On top of our nutrition, we also need to ensure that our training is on point if we want to add some size to the derriere. The glutes are a muscle, so we’re going to grow them the same way we grow any muscle. That is, by following a structured glute training program and implementing progressive overload.

If you haven’t come across the term “progressive overload” before, it basically means we need to make our training sessions progressively harder to force continuous growth. A recent study highlighted that progressive overload is essential for muscle hypertrophy and strength gains (1).

Our bodies are adaptive forces. When we begin working out, we place the muscle under a new stimulus. Over time, our muscles will adapt and become stronger and bigger to cope with the stimulus. If we don’t increase the stimulus by making our workouts more challenging, once the body has adapted to the initial stimuli, it will see no reason to continue adapting, and our progress will plateau.

Therefore, we need to continually push our boundaries to drive the glutes into growth mode. This means adding weight, increasing reps, or varying exercises to keep challenging our muscles.

Let’s jump into the best protein powders for glute growth.

 

Best Whey Protein For Glute Growth: Transparent Labs

 

Check Price on Transparent Labs

 

Key Features

• Serving size: 1 scoop (33 grams)
• Protein per serving: 28 grams (84%)
• Price per serving: $1.97
• Carbs: 1 gram
• Fats: 1 gram
• Suitable for vegans: No

This protein powder has quickly become a staple in our routine. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate stands out for its clean, natural formulation. It’s made from naturally-fed, hormone-free whey and is free of artificial sweeteners, food dyes, gluten, and preservatives. For us, this means we’re getting a protein powder that’s not only effective but also easy on our digestive system.

With 28 grams of protein per serving, it’s clear why this whey protein is a top choice. The high protein-by-weight ratio and minimal sugar or fat make it a solid option for anyone looking to build and recover from intense workouts. We appreciate how it enhances recovery and supports muscle growth without causing any digestive discomfort. There’s no bloating or gas—just smooth, easy digestion.

Transparent Labs Whey protein isolate contains all nine essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle protein synthesis. This balanced profile ensures we’re hitting our muscle-building goals effectively. It’s also worth noting how quickly and easily this protein is absorbed, making it a reliable choice for boosting our daily protein intake.

In our experience, this whey protein is not only effective but also aligns with our commitment to clean, high-quality supplements. It’s a solid pick for those serious about glute growth and overall muscle health.

Pros

• It's free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, gluten, and preservatives.
• It has a high protein content.
• Contains a balanced ratio of all nine essential amino acids for muscle growth.
• It's easily digestible, hence no bloating or digestive discomfort

Cons

• Not suitable for vegetarians.
• Slightly higher cost compared to some other whey proteins.

 

Best Vegan Protein For Glute Growth: Promix Vegan

 

Check Price on Promix

 

Key Features

• Serving size: 2 scoops (32 grams)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams (78%)
• Price per serving: $1.25
• Carbs: 3 grams
• Fats: 2 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

On our second pick, we’re excited to talk about Promix Vegan Protein Powder. This vegan protein isolate, made from organic Canadian yellow peas, has really impressed us. It offers 25 grams of protein per serving and is packed with 5.2 grams of branched-chain amino acids, which are crucial for muscle recovery and growth. The smooth, rich chocolate flavor, lightly sweetened with monk fruit, makes it a treat to drink, and it’s incredibly easy to digest.

Promix Vegan Protein is made without hexane, enzymes, or artificial additives. It’s free from gluten, soy, GMOs, refined sugar, and stevia, aligning perfectly with our clean eating goals. Plus, it’s grown and processed in North America, so we’re getting a product that supports local agriculture and sustainability.

With 73 servings per container and 200% of your Daily Value of Vitamin B12 in each serving, this protein powder provides solid nutrition and energy support. We also appreciate that Promix is a partner of 1% for the Planet and follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

This protein powder not only supports muscle growth but also aligns with our values for clean, high-quality supplements. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to build muscle while sticking to a vegan diet.

Pros

• Supports muscle recovery and growth
• Has a high protein content
• Contains clean ingredients
• Has a Great Taste
• It's suitable for vegans
• Sustainable: Made from North American ingredients and supports 1% of the Planet.
• Extremely affordable

Cons

• Limited flavors to choose from

 

Best Protein Without Artificial Sweeteners: Legion Whey+

 

Check Price on Legion Use Code: “Robor” for 20% off

 

Key Features

• Serving size: 1 scoop (29 grams)
• Protein per serving: 22 grams (75%)
• Price per serving: $2.01
• Carbs: 3 grams
• Fats: 0 grams
• Suitable for vegans: No

If you’re looking for a pure, high-quality whey protein without any artificial sweeteners, Legion Whey+ is a standout choice for us. Made from 100% whey protein isolate, it delivers a concentrated dose of protein with virtually no fat or carbs. This means no wasted calories and better digestibility. The whey is sourced from grass-fed cows in Ireland and is free from hormones and antibiotics, ensuring top-notch quality in every scoop.

What we love about Legion Whey+ is its commitment to natural ingredients. It’s non-GMO, lactose-free, and sugar-free, making it ideal for those following a low-carb diet or anyone avoiding unnecessary additives. With 22 grams of protein and only about 100 calories per serving, it’s packed with essential amino acids, including BCAAs, which are crucial for muscle growth and recovery.

It is easy to incorporate this protein powder into our routine. The flavor is delicious, and it mixes smoothly with water or milk. Whether we’re aiming to build muscle or maintain a healthy lifestyle, Legion Whey+ fits seamlessly into our diet.

Plus, with Mike Matthews behind the brand, we trust that this protein powder lives up to its promise of high-quality, effective supplementation. Legion Whey+ is a reliable choice for a clean, effective protein that supports our fitness goals without any of the junk.

Pros

• Contains pure ingredients.
• Has a high protein content with minimal calories.
• Has no fat or carbs, making it easy on the stomach.
• It's non-GMO, lactose-free, and sugar-free.
• It's easy to mix.

Cons

• It's not vegan-friendly.

 

Best Lactose Free Protein Powder: Naked Pea

 

Check Price on Naked Nutrition

 

Key Features

• Serving size: 2 scoops (38 grams)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams (65%)
• Price per serving: $0.97
• Carbs: 8 grams
• Fats: 4 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

When it comes to lactose-free protein powders, Naked Pea has won us over with its simplicity and effectiveness. With only three ingredients—yellow pea protein, raw cacao, and organic coconut sugar—it’s the protein powder equivalent of a minimalist art piece: clean, straightforward, and surprisingly impressive.

We love that Naked Pea is completely free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. Plus, it’s GMO-free, soy-free, and gluten-free. This makes it a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions or just looking to keep things clean. Each serving packs 25 grams of protein, 5.6 grams of BCAAs, and only 160 calories—no room for excess baggage here!

It’s not just about what's inside; it's also about how you use it. Whether we’re whipping up a quick post-workout shake or sneaking it into a smoothie (or even baking—yes, we went there), Naked Pea integrates smoothly into our diet. It’s our secret weapon for keeping protein intake high without any fuss.

Naked Pea delivers solid results without any unnecessary extras. It’s like the protein powder version of a high-quality pair of jeans: simple, reliable, and goes with everything.

Pros

• Allergen-Free: No soy, gluten, or artificial additives.
• It is nutrient-rich: 25 grams of protein and 5.6 grams of BCAAs per serving.
• Versatile: Great for shakes, smoothies, and recipes.

Cons

• The raw cacao flavor might be too subtle for some.
• It can be a bit gritty compared to some other protein powders.

 

Best Organic Protein Powder: Garden of Life

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 2 scoops (42 grams)
• Protein per serving: 30 grams (71%)
• Price per serving: $2.13
• Carbs: 4 grams
• Fats: 3 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

This Garden of Life Organic Sport Protein has quickly become a favorite of ours. Certified USDA organic and non-GMO project verified, it’s a top choice for anyone serious about clean nutrition. It checks all the boxes: vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, with no added sugars—just pure, wholesome protein.

After a tough workout, we turn to this powder to help with recovery. Each serving delivers 30 grams of complete protein along with over 5 grams of BCAAs, glutamine, and glutamic acid, all essential for muscle repair. But it doesn’t stop there—Garden of Life also includes an organic blend of tart cherries, apples, turmeric, goji berries, and blueberries. This high-antioxidant mix not only aids recovery but also supports our immune system.

What’s even better is the 2 billion CFU probiotic blend included, which keeps our digestive system in check and boosts overall immunity. This powder is certified clean and free from banned substances, so we can focus on our training without worrying about the quality of our supplements.

Garden of Life Organic Sport Protein provides both excellent nutrition and peace of mind. It’s a reliable choice for those who want to fuel their bodies with high-quality, organic ingredients.

Pros

• It's vegan-friendly.
• It's certified organic.
• Includes organic antioxidants and probiotics for better recovery and immune support.
• It’s allergen-friendly

Cons

• Higher cost compared to non-organic protein powders.

 

Best Affordable Protein Powder: Nutricost Protein Concentrate

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 1 scoop (36 grams)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams (69%)
• Price per serving: $0.81
• Carbs: 3 grams
• Fats: 3 grams
• Suitable for vegans: No

If you like getting the most bang for your buck, Nutricost Protein Concentrate is a game-changer. This undenatured whey protein concentrate offers 5 pounds of delicious milk chocolate-flavored goodness per bottle. It's perfect for those who want quality protein without breaking the bank.

This protein powder is non-GMO and gluten-free, and it fits seamlessly into our health-conscious routines. Made in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility, it ensures high standards of quality and safety. The rich chocolate flavor makes it a treat to mix up a shake, and it blends well, leaving no clumps behind.

Despite being budget-friendly, Nutricost doesn't skimp on quality. Each scoop delivers a solid dose of protein, making it a reliable option for those looking to meet their daily protein needs without spending a fortune. Whether we're using it in our post-workout shakes or adding it to smoothies, it consistently delivers on taste and effectiveness.

Nutricost Protein Concentrate is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants great quality protein at an affordable price. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep up with our fitness goals and budget.

Pros

• Affordable: Great value for the quantity and quality.
• Delicious Flavor: Milk chocolate flavor is enjoyable and easy to mix.
• Quality Assurance: Made in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility.
• Allergen-Friendly: Non-GMO and gluten-free.

Cons

• Limited flavours available
• Not suitable for vegans

 

Best Casein Protein Powder: Levels

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Key Features

• Serving size: 1 scoop (31 grams)
• Protein per serving: 24 grams (77%)
• Price per serving: $1.54
• Carbs: 2 grams
• Fats:5 grams
• Suitable for vegans: No

This Levels Chocolate Casein has quickly become our go-to for overnight recovery. Each scoop packs 24 grams of protein and 5.2 grams of BCAAs, making it a fantastic choice for muscle repair while we sleep. What sets it apart is its use of 100% micellar casein—it's the least processed form, ensuring high-quality protein and a smooth texture

We’re big fans of the clean ingredients list. Levels uses hormone-free dairy and avoids artificial flavors or sweeteners. Instead, it’s flavored with real cacao powder and sweetened with monk fruit extract. This means no fake chocolate taste—just a rich, genuine flavor.

One of the best features is the ease of mixing. Made in the USA with non-GMO sunflower lecithin, it blends effortlessly without clumps. We appreciate that it’s free from GMOs, soy, gluten, and other unnecessary additives. It’s ideal for those who want a clean, high-quality protein source.

Levels Casein provides a reliable and tasty option for muscle recovery, especially if you’re looking for something to take before bed. It’s simple, effective, and lives up to its promises without any gimmicks.

Pros

• High Protein Content: 24 grams per scoop with 5.2 grams of BCAAs.
• Clean Ingredients: No hormones, GMOs, added sugars, soy, gluten, or artificial flavors.
• Delicious Flavor: Made with real cacao and monk fruit extract.
• Easy Mixing: Blends smoothly thanks to non-GMO sunflower lecithin.

Cons

• It is not vegan friendly.
• Has limited flavors.

 

Best Mass Gainer: Dymatize Mass

Key Features

• Serving size: 5 scoops (335 grams)
• Protein per serving: 52 grams (15%)
• Price per serving: $3.77
• Carbs: 245 grams
• Fats: 11 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

Before we kick off, let us start by saying this shake is hardcore. Each serving provides a huge 1280 calories! To build muscle, we need to be in a calorie surplus, that is, we need to be eating more than we burn on a daily basis. And that’s exactly what this shake helps us to achieve. 1280 calories on top of our daily calorie intake will likely put us into a calorie surplus.

Having said that, many of us are probably eating between 1400-3000 calories. So, these 1280 additional calories may put us into too much of a surplus, and we’d run the risk of storing unused calories as fat. We could, however, half the recommended serving to provide 640 calories, of which 26 grams will be protein, which is the same amount of protein as the other protein shakes listed anyway.

It basically boils down to personal requirements, how many calories you get from foods, and how many calories you’d need from a shake. To learn exactly how much you should be eating to build muscle, check out our Muscle Building Nutrition Guide.

Additionally, Dymatize Mass is packed with 17 essential vitamins and minerals to support balanced nutrition, healthy muscle tissue, and recovery. This shake also delivers 10.7 grams of BCAAs, including 5.1 grams of Leucine, to help maximize muscle protein synthesis.

Known for its reliable and respected brand, Dymatize ensures their products are made in facilities that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices, providing peace of mind with every scoop.

Pros

• High calorie and carb content for mass gain
• Has 52 grams of protein per serving for continuous muscle support
• Contains 10.7 grams of BCAAs, including 5.1 grams of leucine
• Includes 17 vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition
• It has a good mixability and enjoyable flavors

Cons

• Large serving size can be difficult to consume for some
• It may be too calorie-dense for some people
• Higher cost per serving compared to regular protein powders

 

FAQ’s

How Much Protein Should I Consume Daily for Glute Growth?

It varies based on individual needs, but a general guideline is to consume 1.6-2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Consult a nutritionist or dietitian for more personalized advice.

Can I Build Glutes Without Protein Supplements?

Yes, you can build glutes without protein supplements if you can meet your daily protein requirements through whole foods. However, protein supplements are a convenient way to ensure you're getting enough protein, especially with a busy lifestyle.

Are There Any Side Effects of Taking Protein Powder?

Most people can consume protein powder without any issues. However, some might experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas. It's important to choose a protein powder that suits your dietary needs and preferences, like lactose-free or vegan options if you have specific sensitivities.

How Do I Choose the Best Protein Powder for My Needs?

Consider factors such as your dietary restrictions (e.g., vegan, lactose-free), protein content per serving, presence of artificial ingredients, and your fitness goals. Our reviews provide a variety of options to help you make an informed choice.

 

The Final Say

Finding the best protein powder for glute growth can be a game-changer in your fitness journey. Whether you're looking for a clean whey protein, a vegan option, or something to help you pack on mass, there's a product tailored to your needs.

Remember, protein powder is just one piece of the puzzle. Pair it with a balanced diet and a solid workout plan focused on progressive overload to see the best results.

We've tested and reviewed the top products to save you the hassle so you can confidently choose the right protein powder for your goals. Consistency is key, so stick with your routine and watch those glute gains unfold. Happy lifting!

 

References

1. Krzysztofik, N., Wilk, N., Wojdała, N., & Gołaś, N. (2019). Maximizing Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic review of advanced resistance training techniques and methods. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health/International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(24), 4897. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244897

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