Michael Daly wrote:

I am seeking a pair at least a 10x zoom.

But not for on-water use, I assume? You won't be able to steady
anything much higher than 8x unless you get image stabilized
(which are not waterproof that I've ever seen).

Yes, I've heard this before, but I use 10x (only water resistant) right
now and have no problem stabilizing the image. However, I do only tend
to paddle on very calm water.