Going for a swim can be as simple or complicated as you like, but whether you’re taking a quick dip or training for your next endurance challenge, it’s easy to forget about ear protection.
If you don’t currently use ear protection, you’re not alone, but don’t underestimate the potential benefits. Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa) and Surfer’s Ear (Exostosis) are both risks for outdoor swimmers. Swimmer’s Ear occurs when contaminated water is left in the ear after swimming, creating an environment for infection and inflammation of the ear canal. Surfer’s Ear is a condition where repeat exposure to cold water and wind causes new bony growths which, in turn, narrow the ear canal and increase the risk of impaired hearing.
Ear protection comes in all shapes and sizes, from traditional earplugs to swim caps and neoprene headbands. On a mild, overcast August morning, we tested six of the best, with the help of swimmers from the Manvers Waterfront Boat Club in Rotherham. We all have different priorities and fit preferences when it comes to swim products, so we tested the products for comfort, secure fit, leak resistance and warmth, but you might also want to consider other factors, such as style, acoustics, affordability and hygiene.
An all-round favourite for our group of swimmers, the Lahtak 3D Cap proved a revelation and should be considered an additional piece of kit for all outdoor swimmers. Everyone agreed they would consider buying one for themselves after the test experience.
As the name suggests, this is a swim cap moulded in a 3D shape with specific contours to accommodate and cover the ears. As a result, the cap doesn’t interfere as much with the fit of your earplugs compared to a conventional cap, where the bottom edge may sit awkwardly over the ears.
Lahtak 3D Swim Cap, £15.99
While the Ear Band-It is designed to work alongside Putty Buddies silicone earplugs to ensure a secure fit, we found that this neoprene headband worked well with any earplugs worn underneath. Even on its own, it offered a certain level of ear protection. If leisurely breaststroke with head above water is your thing, this product is ideal. It’s comfortable, warm, comes in various sizes and is secured in place behind the neck with Velcro. It’s also available in a wide range of colours to suit any taste, including the tie-dye option featured here.
We also found that the Ear Band-It could be worn underneath the 3D Cap for an added layer of warmth.
Earvolution – Ear Band-It, £12.69
Putty Buddies are extremely comfortable. These earplugs offer a personalised fit thanks to their super-soft silicone material, which can be manually moulded around the outer ear. Simple, easy-to-use and effective, they’re available in a rainbow of vibrant colours. If you have sensitive ears, this could be the product. They even float, so there’s little chance you’ll lose them.
Take care not to break the silicone into pieces or insert it into the inner ear canal. The drawback of this super-soft silicone is its long-term durability. While the Putty Buddies are reusable, the manufacturer recommends discarding them after two weeks or five uses.
Earvolution – Putty Buddies, £2.89
A good solution is often the simplest. This is true of many things, including the SwimSafe earplugs. Because the ear canal isn’t straight, these earplugs have a subtle bend to accommodate its shape. To achieve the most secure fit, the earplugs should be slowly rotated when inserted into the ear canal.
They offer good value for money with a universal size fitting, float and come with an attractive storage case. The manufacturer claims they can be used up to 100 times!
Alpine SwimSafe, £11.95
While the other products tested in this review are swim specific, Happy Ears earplugs are versatile, suitable for various situations where noise reduction is needed, including sleep! The Discovery Pack in our test includes all sizes – small, medium, large – ensuring you can find your ideal fit with a single purchase. You can also purchase specific sizes.
These earplugs are easy to fit, provide a reliable, comfortable and watertight seal, while also boasting strong sustainable credentials, made from post-consumer ocean plastics.
Happy Ears – Ocean Plastics Discovery Pack, £25.50
The Surf Ears 4.0 are impressive with well-considered design details. The latest version is available in Black/Sage and Coral/Sky colour options. We also calculated there are up to 24 possible size configurations thanks to the adjustment of different ‘gel’ sizes that fit into the ear canal, ‘wing’ attachments that secure to the outer ear and two inner ear canal depth adjustments. This means there’s a great chance of finding a precise fit for your ear shape.
Designed for ‘water athletes’, Surf Ears 4.0 are suitable for all water activities. Packed with features which significantly enhance the swim experience, they include fine mesh that lets sound in while keeping water out, a magnetic closure silicone storage case for ease of use with cold hands, and an adjustable lead that all the test group loved.
Topping it off, this product also has strong sustainability credentials, made from ocean plastics and recycled silicone. As you might expect, this higher level of quality and features comes with a higher price tag.
Surf Ears 4.0, £49.95
Taking time to find the right ear protection will help protect your ears and enhance your swim experience. We hope you’ll find a product here – or combination of products! – to suit your preferences and swim style.
Let us know what you choose: #OutdoorSwimmingSociety
