A friend, who is a casual birder, is looking for advice on buying new 
binoculars.  Here's his message.  What do you think?  Reply either 
privately to me, or on the list.

... i've had a hankering for some waterproof
binoculars that i could use while kayaking/canoeing.  they must be
submersible.  any ideas how to research this?  i would prefer something
economical, say less than $200; but might consider something more expensive.
REI has some for around $150; Audubon Naturalist Soc. for more like $400.
it would also be best if they were compact (light weight) like my other
binoculars.

Thanks,
Steve