It's a no-brainer if you are canoeing or kayaking to use a
waterproof binocular, but another issue is just how expensive waterproof binocular do you want to take with you in the canoe or kayak? It's one thing to drop a binocular in the grass, but it's quite another to drop a binocular overboard in a lake or river and kiss it good-bye, especially if that binocular cost big bucks. Then, too, we all know that canoes and
kayaks do tip over. It's all part of the ... fun? Okay, you just can't bring yourself to leave that
premium compact binocular, behind? At least use the strap at all times if you want to keep your high dollar binocular, handy, or pack it in a floating waterproof dry box. An option I prefer in a canoe or kayak is a less expensive waterproof
compact binocular, like a
Nikon Prostaff 8x25 or
Brunton Eterna 8x25.
Binoculars in this price range can still provide good solid optics and if you drop one overboard, you will be less likely to frighten off the local wildlife when you start to cuss.