Winter transforms mountains, forests and lakes into magical landscapes. That's why binoculars are a must-have accessory for hikers, skiers and other nature-lovers during this season. How do you choose the right binoculars for winter? Here's our detailed advice.
Why use binoculars in winter?
Low light, reduced contrast and changing weather conditions... A good pair of binoculars is essential for admiring the details of snow-covered landscapes and winter wildlife.
They also enhance your safety in the mountains, helping you to spot trails or avalanche hazards.
And binoculars let you enjoy nature without disturbing animals by getting too close.
Criteria for choosing winter binoculars
Magnification and lens diameter
Magnification (e.g. 10x) and objective diameter (e.g. 50 mm) are the two key figures for choosing the right winter binoculars:
- A magnification of 8x to 10x offers the ideal compromise between stability and detail. On the other hand, too high a magnification amplifies shaking, especially when wearing gloves.
- A diameter of 42 mm to 50 mm is recommended for winter use. In fact, the larger the diameter, the more light the binoculars capture, which is essential for short days and low-light conditions.
Lens coatings and brightness
In winter, opt for binoculars with multi-coating (FMC), which reduces glare and improves light transmission (crucial for observing snow-covered landscapes). BaK-4 prisms are also preferable, as they provide a sharp, high-contrast image, even in low light.
Weather resistance
Winter imposes extreme conditions, which condition your choice of binoculars. Rely on :
- Waterproofing (IPX7 ) to protect your binoculars from snow, rain and humidity.
- Nitrogen filling to prevent the internal fogging so common with temperature variations.
- And a robust body in magnesium or non-slip rubber, to withstand shocks and falls.
Weight and ergonomics
For hikes or snowshoe outings, opt for binoculars weighing less than 800 g to avoid fatigue during prolonged use. You'll also benefit from a non-slip coating that makes them easier to hold, even when wearing gloves.
Field of vision and focus
A wide field of view (100 m to 1,000 m) enables you to follow movements (animals, skiers) without losing sight of the landscape.
Fast focusing is also essential for use with ski goggles or gloves.
Useful accessories
Finally, equip your binoculars with a few essential accessories:
- a hand strap to prevent falls ;
- a protective case to keep your binoculars safe on the move;
- a tripod adapter, useful for prolonged, fatigue-free observation.
How to use binoculars in winter
Using binoculars in winter calls for special care to preserve their performance and durability, and ensure comfortable, safe viewing.
Pre-outing preparation
Before setting out, check the weather forecast to avoid snowstorms or extreme conditions that could damage your binoculars or make them difficult to use.
Make sure that the focus and diopter adjustment (if applicable) are easy to use, even when wearing gloves. If necessary, adjust the knobs so that they are accessible without removing your gloves.
Protection against cold and humidity
To avoid thermal shock, never leave your binoculars in a cold place (such as a car) before suddenly exposing them to a heat source (such as a heated interior). This can cause the lenses to fog up. To avoid this, place your binoculars in an insulated case, or allow them to acclimatize gradually to room temperature.
In addition, wipe your binoculars regularly with a microfiber cloth to prevent moisture or snow from accumulating on the lenses.
Cleaning and care
Clean lenses carefully with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. If stubborn traces remain (slush, mud, etc.), use a soft brush to remove particles before wiping.
Avoid blowing on lenses, as this can cause them to fog up. Use a brush or an air bulb to remove dust.
After use, replace them in their case to protect them from shocks and the elements. And if you're carrying them in a backpack, place them in a dedicated pocket, away from sharp objects.
Finally, when you return, dry your binoculars (always with a dry cloth) and let them air-dry in a temperate place before putting them away. Then store them in a dry place and check their condition regularly.
Optimizing observation
In winter, shaking can be amplified by cold or fatigue. For stable observation, lean your elbows against your body or use a lightweight tripod.
Tip: snow-covered landscapes are often most spectacular in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and low-angled.
Specific winter precautions
Thick gloves can make it difficult to manipulate the focusing knobs on your binoculars. Opt for tactile gloves or easy-to-remove mittens.
Keep an eye on the battery of your electronic binoculars, as the cold reduces their autonomy. If your binoculars are equipped with electronic functions (such as a rangefinder or stabilizer), keep spare batteries in a pocket close to your body to keep them warm.
Finally, beware of reflections in the snow, which can damage your eyes or lens coatings. Use a visor or sunshield if necessary.
To take full advantage of snow-covered landscapes, choose binoculars suitable for winter. Discover our models available in stock at Jumelles.com, your specialized store.
