I have a couple pairs, both Bushnell. I have the big bulky looking ones and some smaller ones. I would definitely recommend the compact design for sporting events or general hiking around crap. If you're into birdwatching, the bigger ones come into play, but if you're a birdwatcher, you might just get a spotting scope instead.

I don't think brand matters too much. Most binocular companies are already in the lense business (nikon, cannon, etc) and I would check out ebay and lower your budget some. Even someone who spends a lot of time outdoors will have trouble getting $200 worth of use out of a pair of binoculars.