Kite Optics, a brand of binoculars and monoculars, features a proprietary image stabilization system. This mechanism, based on a gyroscope and artificial intelligence, provides the user with a perfectly fixed image. This stabilizer erases all movements, whether those of the user (tremors...), but above all for us sailors, those of the boat.
Ideal for the sea
Thus stabilized, these binoculars are perfectly suited to marine use. What's more, stabilization allows you to increase magnification without being penalized by movement. So, whereas traditional marine binoculars are limited to x7 magnification - beyond which the image moves too much to be usable - with stabilized binoculars you can double this magnification.
Testing over several days
We were able to try out a pair of Kite Optics 14 x 50 binoculars during a sailing cruise. An opportunity to validate their efficiency. The model we tried out was the APC Stabilized 50 ED Lion. In parallel with this model for land use, Kite Optics has developed a special series for sailors. This is based on the same model as the one we tested. Only the color of the outer protection, a kind of silicone case, changes to light gray. As for accessories, the "terrestrial" binoculars come with a soft case for storage, while the "marine" model is delivered in a splendid shockproof and waterproof "Pelicase" type case. Classy!
Batteries or rechargeable battery?
Stabilized binoculars require a battery to operate. The model we tested was fitted with a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. With this, with daily use of the binoculars, autonomy was 3 weeks. The Navataq marine model, on the other hand, is powered by 2 AA batteries, which are housed in 2 accessible compartments on the front of the binoculars. We'll see how battery-hungry this model is, but the manufacturer claims over 30 hours of non-stop use.
Automatic hitchhiking
Note that these binoculars are fitted with a safety device that puts the stabilizer in position as soon as the binoculars are vertical. This is the case when the binoculars are hung around the neck. But on a boat, in everyday use, we've found that people often put the binoculars down flat. In this case, the safety system doesn't stop the stabilizer. Fortunately, a timer stops it, but only after 90 minutes.
All-terrain binoculars
We liked the 4 x 4 nature of Kites Optics binoculars. Filled with nitrogen, they are waterproof and above all shockproof. We didn't hesitate to take them out even when the cockpit was drenched in spray. In fact, the binoculars were kept close to the helm on the outside, where they were often exposed to the elements. Apart from a few salt marks on the protective cover, they always responded well to our requests.
A surprising still image
But the most impressive thing about Kite Optics is the vision you get when you look into them. It's hard not to fall in love with them. It was a game during the cruise to tell our pontoon neighbors about them and get them to try them out. The Wahoo effect is immediate, and the next question is often "Where do you buy them?
We were able to compare them with Skipper 7x50 models from Steiner. This German manufacturer remains the benchmark for marine binoculars to this day. But with x7 magnification and, above all, no stabilizer, despite the brightness of the Steiners, the various testers quickly swapped the Steiners for the Kite Optics...
A reticle for calculating distances
The Navataq model also features a reticle for calculating the distance to a building based on its height. The graduation on the left-hand binocular does not impede visibility. However, its usefulness is questionable. In any case, it marks a difference with the terrestrial model, which has no such scale. On the other hand, while the land model is available in battery or lithium battery versions, the marine model is only available with batteries. This economic choice is justified by the manufacturer, in response to military demand for this model. For our part, we couldn't decide whether we'd prefer the Navataq in a waterproof case with batteries and crosshairs, or the outdoor model without crosshairs and a soft pouch, but with the option of a rechargeable battery? In terms of performance and protection, the two models are identical.
Same price as top-of-the-range Steiners
Now it's time to pay the bill. Navataqs are available at ?1,700 incl. VAT. The APC Stabilized 50 are available at ?1650 with batteries and ?1700 with battery. Exactly the same price as a pair of top-of-the-range Steiner Commanders, but only 7 times bigger...
Looking for distributors
While Kite Optics is well-established in the hunting and nature sector, the distribution network is just beginning to take shape in the nautical sector. A few sales outlets are currently available in Brittany, but the network has yet to be established. If any retailers would like to try their hand, the door is always open for discussion.
