They let you discover a new world of flora, fauna and scenery that you wouldn’t otherwise see, and they’re a useful tool on hiking trips too. But which are the right binoculars for you?
Binoculars Design
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Product managers, engineers, laboratory staff: all these optics specialists work together to design our binoculars.

Your binoculars checklist goes a little something like this: how magnifying are they? What kind of adjustments can I make? And, will they weigh me down?
1. Magnification

For most of us the technical specifications of a pair of binoculars will go over our heads – it can be a bit complicated. Here’s an easy way to muddle through them and find the right magnification for you.

Binoculars are identified by one number (8, 10, 12) or sometimes two figures (8x25, 10x25, 12x32). The first number refers to the magnification, and the second number refers to the larger lens diameter.

Now, let’s go back to the beginning for a second – what is the magnification? This function increases the size of a subject that you observe from afar.

So, with an 8x magnification, the observed subject seems 8 times closer than with the naked eye. But it does not mean that it is 8 times bigger. Basically, the higher the magnification, the further you will see.

Beware however, magnifications over x12 will amplify shaking.
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X8 Magnification

What you are observing seems 8X closer.
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X10 Magnification

What you are observing seems 10X closer.
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X12 Magnification

What you are observing seems 8X closer. Increased risk of shaking.
2. Adjustment
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With or without adjustment ? It’s really down to what you’re using your binoculars for.

Pre-set binoculars , also called ‘fix focus’, are easier to use because there is no adjustment required. They are ready and raring to go! We recommend this design for family hikes with children – little ones can use them easily without having to change the settings. The only limitation of pre-set binoculars is that you must observe your subject from a distance of at least 20m to get a sharp image.

Adjustable binoculars provide a more precise, sharp image. The adjustment wheel can be set in a few seconds and lets you choose the focus, from far or near.

Weight
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Really, you only need to think about the weight of your binoculars if you’re taking them with you on long walks or hiking trips. If you plan to keep them in the car and just use them for quick glimpses of the view, a heavier design will be fine.

Of course, when you’re walking or hiking, your binoculars can quickly become heavy and cumbersome, whether they’re in your backpack or around your neck, so opt for lightweight binoculars (i.e. weighing less than 35g). It’s worth bearing in mind that the magnification affects the total weight of the binoculars. The higher the magnification, the heavier the lenses and therefore the heavier the binoculars. A pair of binoculars with a x12 magnification will always be heavier than x10 or x8 magnification binoculars.

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Pierre-Antoine

Optics Specialist

Binoculars are fragile so you’ll need to protect them from shocks that could damage the lenses. In the event of a shock, the lenses will no longer do their job properly and you may not be able to get a clear image.