Hey, I can see you rolling your eyes 
What's interesting is not so much Barska (unless they've changed their tune ... it's possible) but the actual products.
The Storm EX is an "distinctive open bridge design" that probably looks like all the other Chinese open bridge designs using the same enclosures. But still interesting that they're doing an open bridge.
You can see them on the Barska site with leather look rubber (now that's an innovation!)
The mini porro seems to be a regular 8x25 compact rather than another Yosemite-oid bin.
http://barska.com/binoculars.html
quote:
STORM EX ROOF PRISM AND STORM PORRO PRISM
Storm EX Roof Prism
The new Storm EX roof prism binoculars feature a distinctive open bridge design. Available in 8×42 and 10×42, they fit virtually any viewing situation — from sporting events to nature viewing to hunting. Storm EX features high quality BaK-4 fully multi-coated optics that deliver bright crisp images with high contrast and clarity. Not only are they comfortable to hold, the locking twist-up eyepieces, diopter adjustment and large center focus knob allow users to adjust the binoculars to fit their specific viewing requirements. The optics and rugged chassis are protected by a rubber armor covering with unique styling and textured accents for a firm grip. 100% waterproof and fogproof, the Storm EX performs flawlessly in all weather conditions and makes an essential addition to anyone’s outdoor gear list. Includes case and neckstrap. Like all BARSKA binoculars, Storm EX are covered by BARSKA’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Storm Porro Prism
BARSKA’s new Storm Series porro prism binoculars are available in 10×50 and 12×60 and the view through these binoculars is breathtaking! They can be used hand-held or mounted onto a tripod for increased stability. Featuring fully multi-coated optics, BaK-4 prisms and long eye relief Storm binoculars can be quickly and precisely focused using the large center focus knob and separate diopter adjustment. No matter what the viewing conditions are like Storm binoculars are 100% waterproof and fogproof protected. The optics components and chassis are also encased in a protective rubber armor outer cover for added shock and moisture protection. Includes case and neckstrap and backed by BARSKA’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
NATURESCAPE
Compact Waterproof Mini Porro
A long day’s trek into the back country or observing nature from the backyard calls for a binocular that’s compact, lightweight, comfortable and powerful. The new Naturescape Compact Mini Porro Prism binoculars have all of this and more. From the inside out these binoculars are built to perform under all conditions. 100% waterproof and fogproof, they feature BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics that deliver crisp high definition images. Focusing is smooth and precise thanks to a large center focus knob and separate diopter adjustment. Twist-up locking eyepieces provide the convenience of viewing with or without eyeglasses. The optical system and chassis are encased and protected by a rubber armor covering that keeps dust and moisture out and provides a comfortable and secure grip. Includes deluxe carrying case and neckstrap. Limited Lifetime warranty.
Hmm, it seems like alot of companies are now taking a shot at that open bridge piece of the pie. I am eager to see how the Zen-Ray's compare to the Promaster and Hawke's. The Vanguards were a bit of a disappointment but I have a feeling the Zen will not be.
Who wants to take the plunge and order one of the Barska's?
