Binoculars for hiking: magnification and how to choose

A pair of binoculars is one of those things that can turn an ordinary view into a real moment. If you are heading out to experience the wide world, it can be a good idea to have binoculars in your backpack. Here is my guide to what the numbers mean and how to find the right pair for hiking and nature.

I do not always bring them, because on a long hike every gram counts. But when I do, I am rarely disappointed. A distant bird, a mountain peak on the horizon or an animal on the far side of the valley suddenly becomes vividly present. It is pure luxury, but a lovely kind.

Understand the numbers on binoculars

All binoculars are marked with two numbers, for example 8x42. Once you understand them, choosing becomes much easier.

• The first number is the magnification. 8x means the subject appears eight times closer. 10x gets you closer still.
• The second number is the diameter of the objective lens in millimetres. A larger objective like 42 gathers more light and gives a brighter image, but also makes the binoculars bigger and heavier.

An 8x42 is the classic all-round size for nature and hiking. It strikes a good balance between light, field of view and a calm image.

Which magnification for hiking?

It is tempting to think that more magnification is always better. In practice it works differently.

With 8x you get a calm, stable image that is easy to hold by hand, and a wide field of view where you quickly find what you are looking for. With 10x you get closer, but every little shake of your hand also becomes more visible, and the field of view narrows. If you want to go even higher in magnification, you typically need a small tripod to keep the image steady.

For hiking, where you look by hand and want to find the subject quickly, I would recommend 8x. It is a safe choice that simply works.

Weight, size and waterproofing

Here it is all about how much you want to carry. A compact pocket pair can weigh under 300 grams and disappear into a side pocket of your backpack. Large nature and birding binoculars easily weigh close to a kilo, but reward you with a brighter image and better detail.

If the binoculars are coming along as an extra experience on the hike, go for a light, compact model. If they will mostly be used from home or from a fixed spot in nature, you can afford to prioritise the image over the weight.

Either way, I would recommend a waterproof pair if they are heading out into nature. Most waterproof models are nitrogen filled, so they stay clear inside when the temperature shifts. That is a detail you will come to appreciate on a chilly morning.

My advice before you buy

Here is what I weigh up when choosing binoculars.

• Will they come on long trips where weight counts, or mostly be used from home?
• Do I want the wide, stable image of an 8x or the extra reach of a 10x?
• How large an objective do I need for a bright image?
• Should the binoculars be waterproof and fog free?
• Do they fit my hand, and are they easy to adjust?

Binoculars are far from a requirement on the packing list, but they can give you some of the most beautiful moments of the trip. If you are putting your kit together, have a look at my other guides to outdoor gear and find the rest of what you need.