Bold Look

Nikon Stabileyes
Pretend you’re a secret agent with these 12x32mm binoculars that can steady an image with the touch of a button. Cool, but the downside: They’re bulky and heavy. And until you get used to it, get ready to feel slightly seasick when the “VR” (vibration reduction) feature is turned on. $799.99, www.nikonusa.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Audobon Equinox
These official binoculars of the Audubon Society are set to premiere Wednesday. The 8x42mm waterproof roof-prism binoculars are made by Sheltered Wings. Birders will especially love being able to focus in as close as 5 feet. $249.99, www.audubonbinoculars.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Bushnell Legend
A bit on the heavy side, this Porro prism 8x26mm unit is waterproof, with rubber armoring for a good grip. Pop-up eyecups are a nice option usually found only on more expensive models. $129.95, www.bushnell.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Bausch & Lomb Legacy 8x25mm
These are a just-beyond-entry-level binocular. Fold-back eyecups. Very compact and easy to focus. Don’t expect much detail in low light. Though they’re very lightweight, but the thin neck strap might cut into a bare neck if worn for long periods. B&L recommends them for general nature-viewing, hunting and bird watching. $79.95, www.bausch.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Tasco Amphibian 8x25mm
These are low-end waterproof glasses with fold-back eyecups. A bit heavy for their compact size and the diopter adjustment is stiff, but they do fold together nice and small. Convenient to stash in a pocket while kayaking or canoeing. $49.95, www.tasco.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Nikon LX 10x32mm Waterproof
Nikon recommends these for hunting and bird watching, but they’re heavy, so you should think twice about toting them around all day. That said, focusing and barrel adjustment are as smooth as butter and the leather-like case is sleek. $1,120.95, www.nikonusa.com.  (Eric Boyd / LAT)