Indestructible barware. It’s the dream of those who want to spend all summer on a patio while avoiding the triple threat of easy-to-break vessels: abstinence-induced dehydration, bits of crystal stuck between patio stones and the unfortunate slacker vibe that often comes with holding a red Solo cup.
Fortunately, there are eye-catching options for all sorts of thirst-quenchers – including cocktails, beer, wine, champagne and plain old ice water. They come in a variety of materials, including special types of crystal, glass and plastic – none of which you’ll want to dump in a garbage bin at the end of a hot summer night.
The concept of indestructible cups isn’t new. In the 1980s, an East German company called Superfest pioneered a type of glass that could be dropped from a height of two metres without cracking. Those Cold War-era tumblers had a bulky appearance, though, like the sort of thing one might get free at a gas station. Contemporary cups are more swish – as they should be.
“Patio glassware should be elegant, functional and bring a sense of celebration,” says Angela Allan, beverage director and sommelier at Aburi Restaurants Canada, which operates Japanese restaurants in Vancouver and Toronto. And as Allan notes, sometimes the design of the vessel can help reduce the risk of breakage.
“For outdoor wine glasses, I love stemless options because they roll instead of breaking, which is perfect if a gust of wind hits or if you are a hand talker who gets animated while telling a story. For cocktails, I look for glassware with a thick or heavy bottom to help anchor the glass.”
Oliver Leung, co-owner of Toronto’s Suite 115 cocktail bar, agrees. “The most important features for patio glassware are grip and stability,” he says. “Textured glass and a weighted base go a long way in preventing slips or tipping, especially on uneven tables.”
Sometimes, the material itself saves the day. “When it comes to the best stemware for patios, poolside sipping or any kind of outdoor entertaining, you have two main routes,” says Christian P. Hamel, the wine director at Toronto’s Harbour Sixty. “Go with glass for elegance and feel or opt for acrylic for peace of mind.”
Fortunately, there are types of glass available today that are formulated to be break-resistant. “The Pro line from Fable is crafted from recycled, ion-toughened crystal,” says Hamel. “This makes them twice as durable as traditional crystal without sacrificing finesse.”
Another option is Tritan crystal, a proprietary glass produced by German company Schott Zwiesel. The material is made with titanium (as opposed to the lead of traditional crystal). “They’re feather-light, virtually indestructible and dishwasher-safe.”
Tritan crystal should not be confused with a material simply called Tritan, a shatterproof-yet-recyclable polymer developed by the Eastman Chemical Company. Tritan avoids the concerning chemical Bisphenol A once common in reusable water bottles. Companies such as Govino make eye-catching Tritan (polymer) options for wine and beer. As Hamel says, “No breakage, no stress.”
Six buys to try
When shopping for indestructible patio glasses, look for both form and function.
Govino beer glass
The indent on the side of Govino’s beer glass is not a flaw in production. It’s a thumb grip to help prevent accidental drops. The vessel itself is recyclable and made from Tritan Renew, a polymer that contains 50 per cent recycled content.
Buying options
From $13, buy at Govino
Fable glassware set
The rims of Fable’s Glassware Pro glasses are a mere 1.1 mm, creating a delicate feel on the lips. The superthin edge belies durability. The structure of the glass is made of ions that bind more tightly than regular glass, reducing the risk of fractures.
Buying options
Set of eight $192, buy at Fable
Khen acrylic champagne coupe
The Barcelona Acrylic Champagne Coupe Cocktail Glassware from Khen has a few lines of defence. The sides are ribbed and the stem is thick for firmer gripping. It’s also made from acrylic so it will bounce off whatever surface it lands on – not break.
Buying options
Set of four $30, buy at Khen
Zwiesel champagne glass Modo
Schott Zwiesel makes its Modo champagne flute from a special titanium-infused crystal. It shares the same properties with traditional crystal, including its clarity and the delightful tinkling noise it makes during a cheers, but it’s much less likely to break if accidentally tipped over.
Buying options
Set of four $56, buy at Zwiesel-Glas.com
Drinque Guaranteed Unbreakable Stemless
Drinque’s Guaranteed Unbreakable Stemless Wine Glass has a tapered base that will roll, not tip, should a stiff wind blow by. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee and will be replaced should the Tritan plastic shell, which is dishwasher-safe, ever chip, dent or break.
Buying options
Set of four $46, buy at Drinque
Tossware Old Fashioned Glass
Tossware’s Reserve 12-Ounce Old Fashioned Glass elevates everyday drinks such as juice or water with its array of playful colours and sharp, diamond-cut base. The durable polymer takes the stress away from carrying one pool- or patio-side.
Buying options
Set of four $81, buy at Tossware
