The Find: a sturdy, high-end umbrella we’d never lose or throw away

Cheap, wasteful umbrellas are a dime a dozen in Toronto, and we can’t count how many times we’ve hastily purchased a $10 option when caught unexpectedly in a downpour. Then, like most people who frequent the PATH on their morning commute, we came across Raindrops, and we were dumbfounded by the selection of high-end umbrellas. Our favourite was a sturdy, stark black option with Swarovski crystal embellishments, by Italian umbrella maker Pasotti. This version of the ultimate spring essential tweaks some of the traditional aspects of umbrellas, with design details like an engraved steel handle and a fully lined canopy to ensure the umbrella won’t turn inside out or blow away, with or without a kung fu grip. $295.

Raindrops, 100 Front Street W. (underground), 416-203-7246, www.raindropsto.com