That's a great question, and one I've actually given a lot of thought to after managing waste for community events. Based on my experience, the brands that consistently stand up to heavy use and harsh weather are those designed for commercial and municipal use.
Hands down, the most durable ones I've come across are from Rubbermaid Commercial Products. Their Brute line, especially the ones made with structural foam, is incredibly tough. They resist cracking in both extreme heat and freezing cold, don't fade easily, and can take a real beating without denting like metal sometimes can. The lids and hinges are robust, which is often the first point of failure on cheaper bins.
A very close second would be Toter. They are essentially the industry standard for automated collection, and their carts are engineered to last for over a decade on curbsides. The plastic is thick, UV-stabilized, and the wheel assemblies are built for daily dragging across pavement. For a more upscale or permanent look, Pilot Rock makes incredibly heavy-duty steel receptacles, often with a powder-coated finish that fights rust. They're anchored into the ground and are virtually indestructible in public parks.
The key things that make these brands last aren't just the material, but the design: reinforced bases, thick walls, high-quality plastic resins or galvanized steel, and simple, sturdy mechanisms. For a homeowner, they might be overkill, but if you need a bin to survive in a public space, high-traffic business, or just want a "buy it for life" solution for your home, investing in a commercial-grade brand from the start is the most durable path.