Dumbrellas

We've been having some real stormy weather in Angeles lately, and it's got me thinking: Aren't there any durable umbrellas out there? Every single one I've ever used has broken in some way(s) within a season, no matter the price or the maker...(or the color?) I believe that I'm a very careful person and yet my umbrellas break with a seemingly uncommon regularity.

Why hasn't anyone come up with a better design? Is there some mass conspiracy at work, a la The Man in the White Suit? Somebody tell me, please...