To date I have bought nothing new to run commute. I have only repurposed other gear I already owned. I’m a single mother on a limited budget, and these are the things I use:
Backpack: Camelbak M.U.L.E. from which I have removed the bladder for run commuting. I have used this pack hiking with my children, trail running, and bike riding for years.
Raincover: This pack is weather-resistant, however this is the rain cover I intend to get… someday.
——————————————————
Water bottle: Nathan Trail Mix; I carry the bottle in my hand or in my sports bra. The back side of the bottle is curved in such a way to make that not only possible, but surprisingly comfortable.
Hydration: Water or Gatorade G2
——————————————————
Shoes: Saucony Ride 5 (Ride 6 update is on the market now) or Brooks Ravenna 4
Socks: Feetures! Elite Ultralight No-Show Tab or Smart Wool (I have a few kinds). My running socks are also my working, hiking, biking, carpooling, housekeeping, homework-helping and cooking socks.
Sports Bra: I really love Moving Comfort Urban X-Over and another style that they don’t make any more. I scour the sale racks at REI for these.
Jacket: Nike Run hoodie, so old they don’t make it any more.
——————————————————
Cleanup wipes: Target or CVS brand cleansing and make-up remover towelettes in the blue bag
Towel: Mission Enduracool Instant Cooling towel (also my camping towel) I wet one end and keep the other end dry.