http://www.only-cookware.com/stainless_steel_cookware.html Ensure the aluminium or copper runs up the sides of the pans A lot of stainless steel cookware on the market today only includes a layer of aluminum or copper in the base of the pot or pan. This is good but what is even better is when the aluminium/copper runs up the sides of the pan. When you see this you know you are looking at quality cookware.