Arguably the oldest, and most accessible, sport on the planet, running is one of the many outdoor activities that has seen substantial participation increase in the past handful of months since COVID flipped everything upside down.

Now, as many begin to return to places of employment, the concept of run commuting—yes, we're talking about running to work—offers a way to keep active while avoiding potentially sketchy public transit. Enter the new Run Commute collection by Tracksmith, an ever bright, pragmatic star in a universe of unnecessarily tech running apparel.

The top-to-bottom collection introduces Merino-based kits for men and women alike (made with Australian Merino wool supported by The Woolmark Company), featuring essential pieces ranging from base layers to a rather stylish—and functional—jacket and pant combo. For us though, the clever running backpack for commuting, made in collaboration with Mission Workshop, is the real highlight.

Designed specifically for running and made by hand in San Francisco, the 18L roll-top Mission Backpack features an integrated frame and perforated back panel and shoulder straps for comfort in varied conditions, four weatherproof exterior pockets, a removable laptop case, space for a hydration resevoir, and a main compartment for spare clothes, groceries, etc. Perfect for everyday carry, whether running to work, to the grocery store, or the track for training laps.

The Mission Backpack sells for $238 and will be available this September. Check out the full Run Commute collection here, where pieces range from $28 to $198.

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