Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8×25 Waterproof Binoculars

Checking over the final packing list for our trip to Costa Rica, I threw in a pair of Nocs binoculars at the last minute. Not an item I typically pack before getting on a plane. But the rugged waterproof Standard Issue 8×25 binoculars from Nocs made the trip. Their small footprint in my check bag certainly didn’t tip the scales one way or another. And I’m glad we brought them. Although this trip was planned for over a year, it seemed everything was now working against us. The plan was to spend Thanksgiving traveling Overland up the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Our kids were out of school and travel to CR was still on the table despite the pandemic. So we went for it.

Landing in San Jose, Costa Rica, we were met by the team from Nomad America and handed the keys to a pair of Overland equipped FJ Cruisers. With off road tires, suspension, roof top tents, awnings, and a fridge, we headed out. First to the grocery store for provisions, then to the coast. The first night was spent at Playa Coyote, a long sandy beach bracketed by a rocky shoreline. Between the rain showers, we were able to survey the incoming weather through the multi coated glass of the Nocs. Neither the rain nor surf could bring harm to these IPX7 rated waterproof binoculars.

Further up the coast at Playa Minas, the weather really improved. Bright sun on a secluded white sand beach, exactly what we were looking for. As my sons set out to snorkel along one of the rocky shorelines, my wife and I were able to maintain visual contact with the 8x Nocs. Later in the day, we spotted sea turtles basking at the surface of the warm waters. As well as a whale spout over a mile off shore. As the sun set, I tossed the Nocs back into the FJ. Only to pull them back out after dinner to observe the local fishermen netting fish offshore under their headlamps.

Nocs Costa Rica Recap:

We couldn’t get over the quality of the glass. An ultra crisp view through the 25mm lenses pops out as focus is adjusted with the center adjustment dial. Additionally, a unique textured rubber exterior both protect while also providing a sure grip on the Nocs. Extendable eye cups not only allow easy eye relief for quick target acquisition. But also provide a stable place to rest a smartphone camera lens. Producing the equivalent of a 400mm lens to capture distant images.

Nocs Standard Issue 8×25 Binocular Specs:

• 8x magnification — the equivalent of a 400 mm camera lens
• GoodEye™ Glass system with anti-reflective coated lenses
• PX7 waterproof certification, submersible for 30 minutes
• Fogproof – nitrogen filled internal chambers
• High-impact rubber grip fits in the hand and protects the Nocs
• Lifetime warranty covers all manufacturing defects for life
• Includes Nocs, drawstring pouch, neck strap, and lens cloth
• Ships in Plastic free, post-consumer recycled shipper box printed with soy ink.
• MSRP: $95

Final Thoughts:

After spending 10 days in Costa Rica with these binoculars, I doubt we ever travel without them again. Their size is perfect for backpacks, luggage and can even fit into the side pocket of cargo pants. Included is a small lens cloth, neck strap and carry bag. If you’d like to upgrade to a fancier neck strap, Nocs offers a couple vintage looking woven straps here. What most impressed me was the quality of optics and rugged build from a pair of binoculars costing under $100. With 10 colors to choose from, you should not only consider a pair for yourself, but any adventurer on your Christmas list. And rest assured that your purchase is covered by Nocs lifetime warranty.