Products

Non-Custom Hearing Protection


Image courtesy of Elliott Berger, Senior Scientist, Aearo Technologies		 Foam Plugs – The plugs are made of a slow recovery foam that expands in the ear canal. Most foam plugs must be properly shaped before inserting into the ear to ensure a good seal.

These plugs may be reused only to the point that the plugs continue to re-expand to their original shape and size.

Image courtesy of Elliott Berger, Senior Scientist, Aearo Technologies		 Pre-Molded Plugs – These plugs are made in several sizes because they do not require shaping prior to insertion. Typically there are three flanges (or rings) of increasing size that seal the ear canal as they are inserted. It is very important to select the proper size to ensure adequate protection.

These plugs may be reused for several months. Replacement is required when they change from their original shape, tear, crack, harden, or soften.

Image courtesy of Elliott Berger, Senior Scientist, Aearo Technologies		 Earmuffs – Earmuffs are made from protective cups that are secured by a headband. The cups are available in different sizes and the bands are adjustable to provide the best fit. The cushions that surround the cups provide the protective seal around the ear. It is important to watch for cracks or stiffness in the cushion and replace them when this occurs.
Musician’s Plugs – These earplugs are termed musician’s earplugs because they provide a flat reduction of 20 dB in sound to preserve the tonal quality of the signal. This is accomplished by a special filter placed in the plug. Typically there are three flanges (or rings) of increasing size that seal the ear canal as they are inserted. There are 2 sizes available.

Custom Hearing Protection

Swimming/Bathing/Noise Plugs – These plugs are all made to completely seal the ear using a custom impression to build the plug. These plugs are very comfortable and made from a waterproof silicone material that floats and is resistant to shrinking over time.

For children, it is important to monitor that the plug continues to seal the ear as the child grows. It is also important to watch for cracks or tears in the material. Several colors and designs are available.
Custom Musician’s Plugs – Much like the non-custom plug these plugs provide a flat attenuation of sound to preserve tonal quality of the signal by placing a special filter in the plug.

An impression is required to build the plug. There are several filters that are available with various attenuation values. The value you choose, depends upon the level you will be in.
Shooter’s Plugs – These plugs are designed to allow hunter’s to hear things in the environment until the moment the gun discharges.

A special valve in the plug locks shut to protect the wearer during the instant that the gun is fired and then opens again. This valve is not appropriate for speed-shooting enthusiasts.

Specialty Hearing Protection

In-Ear Monitors – These monitors are designed to allow a musician to hear himself/herself as well the rest of the band and still protect his/her hearing.

These come in custom and non-custom styles with single, dual or 3-way drivers. Various styles and colors are available.
Motor Sports – These custom plugs are designed to protect the wearer from dangerous wind noise.

A special feature of these plugs is that they are hollowed out, for comfort with or without a helmet. Available in a variety of colors.
Snore Plugs – These custom plugs are designed to feel comfortable even when sleeping.

These may not be worn to protect you from dangerous noise levels – but it will provide you with the quiet you need to get a restful sleep.
Earplanes – These earplugs for individuals who experience ear discomfort, clogging, and popping while flying. These earplugs are tapered to fit securely and feature a filter that regulates the air pressure in the ear.

Earplanes may be removed when the airplane reaches maximum altitude and reinserted before descent. One pair is good for a round trip. EarPlanes are also great for mountain driving.

American Academy of Audiology