[Paddlewise] Waterproof Binoculars

Hi Chris, (and others shopping for binoculars suitable for use on the water),

My inaccurate explanation of the properties of nitrogen gas notwithstanding,
you WANT to shop for binoculars filled with nitrogen gas. This is a Good
Thing. It keeps your lenses from fogging on the inside which can cause
expensive trouble.

If you shop for compact binocs and are willing to spend $300-$400, you'll
likely be looking at the Swarovskis and Leicas. They both offer a
wonderfully bright, crisp, high-contrast image. A number of salespeople have
incorrectly told me that the Leica compacts (8x20 and 10x25) are waterproof.
They are not, as is clearly explained in the Leica literature. The compact
Leicas are merely splashproof. I wouldn't use them for kayaking.  Not unless
the very latest models incorporate waterproofing. Just a warning in case you
should be assured they are waterproof. The larger Leicas ARE waterproof and
"nitrogen purged" and very suitable for use on the water. If only they
weren't so expensive. My choice would be the Leica Ultra 8x32.

There's been some discussion about how to safely secure one's binoculars
while kayaking. Chris, if you put you binocs on your deck, I'd suggest using
a carabiner, or something, to clip the strap to the rigging so you won't
lose them in a capsize. Note that Leica and others make floating binocular
straps that will support your binocs in water should you drop them
overboard. I haven't seen one in person, but the salesman at Eagle Optics
said they are VERY bulky and, so, not very comfortable for regular use. I
think they cost around $35 or so. I'd think they'd have to be pretty thick
foam, or whatever, to float a pair of heavy Leicas in the water.

I have also seen a shoulder harness system in the birding magazines that
looks interesting. It might be suitable for safely carrying binocs on the
water. I assume these have Fastex-type quick release buckles at the ends of
the straps to make it easy to remove the binocs without climbing out of the
harness.

Anyone here used one of these binocular harness systems? Will it fit
comfortably under a PFD?  Would you recommend it for kayaking?

What I've got Marie using with her Nikons right now is a carabiner around a
shoulder strap on her PFD which allows her to quickly and easily clip her
binocular strap through. The strap is worn normally around her neck and
passes right across the carabiner high on her chest making it easy to clip
into. She says it works fine and doesn't interfere with using the binocs. If
she has an accident, the binocs will stay with her. I like the simplicity
and effectiveness of this solution. Changing back and forth from a normal
strap to a floating strap for water use would be a real nuisance on the Nikons.

Any other ideas?

Regards,

-Bruce



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