Optical performance is of ultimate importance when deciding which binoculars to buy but what makes IS Binoculars extra special is the ability to use them in moving environments whilst maintaining the clarity of image. Canon IS binoculars are among the best there is for image stabilizing technology with the Canon 10x42L IS, in particular, gaining hot reviews.



Apart from the ability to use IS binoculars while on the go, the technology has another added advantage in that it enables high magnification binoculars to be hand held without experiencing image distortion due to slight movements in the hand. Without image stabilisation the greatest magnification that most people can use without a distorted image is 8x, with IS high magnification binoculars can be hand held (Canon do an 18x50 and Nikon do a 16x32).

So which IS binoculars are the ones to choose? Well it really depends on what you want to use them for.

If you want to use them for astronomy take a look at those with a larger objective lens to ensure maximum light gathering ability such as the 15x50 or 18x50 Canon IS binoculars. The IS technology does make them a little on the heavy side with them both weighing in at 1200g but they are ideal for those times when you just want to pick up binoculars and get viewing without have the hassle of setting up a tripod. The image stabilizing technology doesn't eliminate all the distortion due to movements in the hand but you would be hard to notice slight movements and users absolutely rave about them.

For marine use the Nikon Stabileyes 14x40 and the 10x42 WP Canon IS binoculars are both popular choices.

• The Nikon 14x40 comes with two modes, an on board mode and a land mode, weighs in at 1120g, is exceptionally good for spectacle wearers and is waterproof and fog-free. If you want to add these to your shopping list you'll be looking at spending around £1,300.

• The Canon 10x42 are the first Canon IS binoculars to come with the coveted red L-series professional lenses making them an immensely popular choice. The optical performance is amazing, they are waterproof to 1mtr for 30 minutes and have a close focusing distance of just 2.5mtrs. If you buy on the internet you should be able pick up the Canon 10x42 for less than £900 which is a real bargain given the specification.

For bird watching it depends what is most important, size and weight or a larger objective lens. Again both Nikon and Canon have focused on the needs of the birdwatcher with Nikon offering 12x32 or 16x32 waterproof binoculars that have a reduced vibration mode to enable you to follow fast moving objects with a steady view. However the 14x40 offer 2 vibration modes (not available in the other models) which makes them a more popular choice.

Canon offer full size (10x42), mid-size (12x36) or compact options (10x30 or 8x25). The down side of the mid-size and compact canon IS binoculars are that they aren't waterproof. However, their weight makes them ideal for carrying around (660g, 600g and 490g) and the 12x36 are extremely popular high magnification birding binoculars, affordably priced at around £450.

Overall my preference is the 10 x 42 WP Canon IS binoculars particularly for bird watching and general outdoor pursuits. The L series lenses ensure they deliver an unrivalled performance with outstanding clarity and superior optical performance. Weight can prove an issue for some, at 1030g (a problem with most IS binoculars), but the benefits of image stabilizing technology make it well worth it.