Rainy days are few and far between here in Colorado, so they feel refreshing and romantic instead of gloomy. Long soaks are so important for farmers, too, that a good rain is practically celebration-worthy - and worthy of a great eco-umbrella.

Just in time for our welcome April showers, I came across this eco-umbrella from rain protection stalwart Totes. The Eco 'brella is made of 70 percent recycled materials in total, with a canopy of 100 percent recycled PET bottles, a frame of 70 percent recycled aluminum, a bamboo handle and a hemp strap.


For $30, the Eco 'brella comes in Hydrangea, Leaf Green, Khaki or Soft Black, and has a well-designed recycled symbol in a raindrop on one panel. With automatic open and close, you can maneuver and stay dry while juggling parcels.


Images: Aidan T. Morgan and Totes