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The 5 best swimming earplugs in 2024?

by Laura

earplugs_swimming
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Still waters, pools or swimming ponds are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Earplugs for swimming help to effectively protect our ears from infection.

How to protect your health:

Ear protection for swimming prevents bacteria and water from entering the sensitive ear canal and is an essential swimming accessory if you swim regularly.

How to recognize good quality:

BeyondSurfing has spent over 25 hours researching for you and presents the top 7 swimming earplugs. You can also find out which features you should look out for when buying in the buying guide. Bad buys are a thing of the past!

In a hurry? Our favorite earplugs:

Macks's Aqua Block*
Why are these earplugs better?

  • Recommended by doctors
  • Two for the price of one
  • Also suitable for surfing
  • Incl. transparent protective box

“I’ve been using the purple version for several years now. They sit very comfortably in the ear and are easy to find in the pool.” – Stephanie A. (★★★★★)

Swimming earplugs Checklist

  • Models: Lamellar earplugs work with a vacuum and are particularly tight. Malleable earplugs run the risk of getting stuck or breaking off.
  • Color: Striking colors are easier to find underwater.
  • Transport: A transport box is a must for reusable earplugs.

Also interesting: The most popular diving lamps 2024.

These are the top earplugs in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

Best earplugs for swimming according to doctors’ recommendations

1. Macks’s Aqua Block

Advantages

  • Recommended by doctors
  • Incl. transparent protective box
  • Also suitable for surfing
  • Two for the price of one
  • Purple or transparent

Disadvantages

  • One size fits all
  • Transparent version difficult to recognize in water

Summary

These earplugs from Mack’s come in a set of two pairs and a carrying case. The customer can choose between a transparent and a purple version.

The material is made of particularly soft “Super Seal” silicone. It is lamellar and creates a slight vacuum in the ear. As a result, it sucks itself into ear canals of different sizes and offers secure protection when swimming.

The model is recommended by doctors worldwide due to its excellent experience and quality. The hold is so stable that it can also be used for demanding sports such as surfing.

Conclusion

Hearing protection is suitable for everyone aged 7 and over. The earplugs are ideal for everything from simple protection in the shower to demanding swimming and water sports.

Sensitive people do not always like the vacuum that the lamellar earplugs create. They prefer to use moldable earplugs.

Product details

Size: One size, 5 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm | Material: Silicone | Weight: 9 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 82% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The product fits very comfortably and lasts for years. The colored version is easy to find in the water. Even small ear canals are no problem. They adapt perfectly. They are not lost while surfing. The supplied box is robust and practical. The material is very soft. The price-performance ratio is very good.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers did not want the earplugs to stay in their ears. The model caused one customer to feel pressure. The transparent version cannot be found in the water if lost.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Do these earplugs also fit in children's ears?
Yes, that’s not a problem. Of course, do not insert as deeply as with adults.
Can you still hear a swimming coach and have a conversation?
Yes, that’s not a problem. Loud noises are pleasantly muffled.

Best earplugs made from medical material

2. sanohra earplugs

Advantages

  • Special sizes for children and adults
  • Suitable after ear surgery
  • Medical material
  • Incl. Transport box

Disadvantages

  • Only one color available

Summary

The Sanohra earplugs are green and blue and available in two different sizes. They are suitable for children and adults. The set includes a transparent protective cover.

The material is medical plastic in the form of lamellae. These form a slight vacuum and anchor themselves in the ear canal. They can be worn for several hours without any problems.

Thanks to its good adaptability, the set is also suitable for wakeboarding, surfing or snorkeling. They are also suitable as reliable protection in the shower for children who have to undergo tympanic surgery, for example.

Conclusion

The different sizes ensure that all age groups are covered. This makes the earplugs a very good model for the whole family.

Customers who have had difficulties with the vacuum of lamellar earplugs in the past prefer to use a different product.

Product details

Size: 2 different | Material: Medical plastic | Weight: N/A

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 64% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Small children can insert the earplugs without any problems. They do not get lost and are firmly attached. The transport box is practical and protects the product reliably. The earplugs have enabled many children to shower and swim after ear surgery. They do not interfere with diving either.

Around 19% are neutral about the product, while 17% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The earplugs may fall out of the ear canal. They cannot withstand intensive use and are difficult to use. One customer has lost them completely.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can you still hear with the earplugs?
Yes, hearing is protected but only insignificantly affected.
From what age can these earplugs be used?
The children’s version can be used from the age of one.

Best customizable earplugs

3. putty buddies floating earplugs

Advantages

  • Extremely adaptable
  • Many different colors
  • Three pairs for the price of one
  • Invented by an ENT doctor
  • Swimming on the surface

Disadvantages

  • Can disintegrate into individual parts
  • Not suitable for warm climates
  • Difficult for children to put on themselves

Summary

This earplug package from Putty Buddies comes with 3 pairs in one set, all in different colors. The customer can choose from different combinations. A transparent transport box is included free of charge.

The hearing protection is made of soft silicone, similar to plasticine. It is simply rolled between the fingers until it is so soft that it deforms. It can then be pressed to the beginning of the ear canal and into the outer ear.

The adjustable shape means the set can be used by children and adults. It reliably withstands swimming, showering or snorkeling.

Conclusion

A set that can be adapted to all ear shapes. This makes it suitable for the whole family.

If you practice water sports such as surfing, it is better to choose a set with a slatted shape. The vacuum formed can withstand heavy loads.

Product details

Size: One size 14 x 3.2 x 9.3 cm | Material: Moldable silicone | Weight: 22.7 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 82% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The children really like the bright colors. Even wild romps or jumps are no problem. The ears are sealed tightly and reliably. The intense colors prevent them from getting lost in the tank. The set reliably protects against the “Swimmer Ear” and does not fall out. If they do fall out, they float on the surface.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 11% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

They are not suitable for very warm climates. The material can melt at high temperatures and then get stuck in the ear or migrate too deep inside. Be careful when removing!

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can you still hear well with these earplugs?
Yes, the noise is only muffled a little.
Who are these earplugs suitable for?
The adjustable shape makes it suitable for all age groups.

Further highlights

4. earplugs Silicon Aqua

Advantages

  • 6 pieces in a set
  • Incl. Transport cover
  • Skin-friendly silicone
  • Adaptable

Disadvantages

  • Greatly attenuate hearing
  • One size fits all
  • Only one color available

Summary

The earplugs from Ohropax are blue and come in an adjustable one size fits all for adults. A transparent transport box is included. The set contains 3 pairs.

The material is moldable silicone. It can be compressed and then slowly spreads out again. As a result, it gently seals the ear canal after insertion.

The set is ideal for recreational swimmers and for water protection when showering or bathing. The seat is always tight and comfortable. Even older children can use the earplugs without any problems.

Conclusion

The Ohropax set offers particularly good value for money. Customers who are looking for several pairs at a reasonable price choose this article.

Professional swimmers prefer to use a set with slat technology. It offers stronger support.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Silicone | Weight: 18.1 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 69 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The ear protection works well when snorkeling. Insertion is problem-free. The earplugs are more hygienic than similar models made of wax. They hold tight reliably and can be adjusted very well. They are ideal for sleeping and keep out noise. They are also suitable for protection after ear surgery.

Around 18% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

This set is not suitable for competitive swimmers or water sports. The hold is not firm enough. In the long term, dirt accumulates in the silicone. The material feels uncomfortable. The color is difficult to see underwater.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can you also shower with these earplugs?
Yes, they reliably keep water away from the ear even when showering.
Can you still hear an alarm with it?
Only if it is loud enough. Hearing is attenuated.

5. speedo hearing protection

Advantages

  • Incl. Transport box
  • Particularly robust material
  • Cannot slip into the ear
  • Practical handle

Disadvantages

  • Only one color available
  • One size fits all

Summary

The ergonomic earplugs from Speedo come in a black and blue design. They are suitable for adults with small to medium-sized ears. A transport box is supplied.

The material is polypropylene and thermoplastic rubber. This makes this set particularly robust and durable. The lamellar shape creates a gentle vacuum and reliably seals the ear canal.

Handles are attached to the ends to facilitate removal. They also prevent the earplugs from penetrating too deeply. With the right fit, the set is also suitable for professional sports.

Conclusion

Professional athletes like to use this set. If you are looking for a particularly durable product, you will be very satisfied with the Speedo ear protection.

The one-size-fits-most fits smaller ear canals. Customers with large ears reach for a different product.

Product details

Size: One size, 18 x 12 x 5 cm | Material: Polypropylene | Weight: 4.5 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 61% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The handle is practical and offers additional safety. The earplugs cannot penetrate too deeply and are easy to remove. They are extremely leak-proof and can be worn for hours. You can hear the coach’s announcements and warning calls without restriction. The product is also suitable for professional swimmers. The price-performance ratio is super. The set is well suited for smaller ear canals.

Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 30% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A blow to the ear should be avoided at all costs. The handle is made of hard plastic and can cause pain if pressure is applied. This set does not fit larger ears well. The material stings.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Are these earplugs also suitable for children?
Yes, but only for older people. The ear canal is large enough from the age of about 12.
Are they easy to remove?
Yes, the attached handle prevents it from slipping in and makes it easier to remove.

Bestsellers: The most popular swimming earplugs

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-12-08)

Buy swimming earplugs:
How to make the right decision

ear protection_swimming

The demand for earplugs has risen sharply. One reason for this is the increasing health awareness of Germans. Manufacturers are responding with more and more products.

How to find the right ear protection for swimming:

BeyondSurfing presents the most important criteria for good earplugs in its buying guide. This enables you to make an informed purchase decision.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of special swimming earplugs?

  • Protect your health
  • Have a long shelf life and are washable
  • Well-fitting earplugs are not noticeable
  • Earplugs can be made to measure
  • More expensive than normal earplugs against noise
  • Children can’t always put them on themselves
  • Sometimes difficult to find in the water

What you need to consider when buying earplugs

When looking for the best earplugs, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • Material
  • Fit
  • Noise protection
  • Reusability
  • Durability

Pro tip: A transportation box should always be included with reusable earplugs.

Material of swimming earplugs

There are different types of earplugs. Each material has different properties that influence the use of the earplugs.

Moldable silicone

Earplugs made of moldable silicone are available from pharmacies, for example. They are inexpensive and fit every ear. Insertion is simple.

The disadvantages are the difficulty of cleaning and the small risk of parts remaining in the ear.

Dimensionally stable rubber and silicone

Such earplugs are inexpensive, washable and offer no risk of individual parts remaining in the ear. They are often lamellar and get stuck in the ear. This gives them a particularly firm hold.

One disadvantage is the often conspicuous tip that sticks out. They are also not adjustable.

Watch out: Plastic earplugs are not suitable for swimming and are only intended to keep out noise. They would soak up water.

Fit of swimming earplugs

The fit of the earplugs must be ideal. Why? Otherwise the earplugs simply fall out when swimming or cause pain.

Stable earplugs are usually available in several sizes. A well-fitting pair is barely noticeable and has a firm hold with every movement.

With moldable silicone or rubber earplugs, the fit can be individually adjusted. Once you have understood the technique, they fit perfectly.

You can find tips on how to insert earplugs correctly here:

For professional swimmers or regular hobby swimmers, a custom-made product can be worthwhile. But that requires a visit to the store. You can find more information on customized hearing protection for swimming here, for example.

Noise protection of the earplugs

Although noise protection is a desired effect of earplugs in other situations, it should be avoided when swimming.

Pay attention to the reviews on Amazon. These often give an indication of the hearing impairment caused by the product. There are also special models with sound wave technology. These keep out water but not sound.

Reusability of earplugs

Disposable products are always hygienic and do not need to be cleaned: However, it creates unnecessary waste and is usually only available in one size.

Reusable earplugs are washable and often come with a free protective cover to keep them dry and clean. You also save money in the long run.

Durability of earplugs

A simple rule of thumb applies here: the easier the surface is to clean, the longer you will enjoy your earplugs. A rough or sticky surface attracts bacteria in the long term and gives them space to spread.

Caution: Moldable earplugs are particularly susceptible to dirt deposits.

Why use swimming earplugs?

swim_ear_stops

If water gets trapped in the ear, it can cause infections or disrupt the balance system. Still water (the opposite of a river or sea) makes it easy for bacteria to spread.

This means:

Earplugs protect your health and make swimming more comfortable. But the earplugs can also help with various water sports such as surfing and prevent high-pressure water from entering the ear when falling.

The following video shows how water gets into the ear and which movements are particularly susceptible:

The ear canal is curved and a small depression forms directly in front of the eardrum. If you emerge from the water at an angle, for example, some water often remains there. This depends very much on the shape of the ear.

Dr. Wendt ★★★★★
(ENT doctor in an interview with ARD)


Better quality from well-known brands and manufacturers?

There are no specific manufacturers that specialize in swimming earplugs. However, Ohropax is generally known and popular in Germany for products that protect hearing. Major swimming brands, such as Speedo, also often have earplugs in their range.

Important: Avoid cheap products from Asia. Different safety regulations apply there, which often do not meet German standards.

Earplug tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test

Almost all models scored “good” in the Consumer Reports earplug test. There were no serious or questionable defects in almost 20 different materials and construction methods.

Nevertheless, caution is advised: In its earplug test, Öko Test found two products that contained questionable ingredients. The two manufacturers are “Suki International” and “3M”. You should therefore avoid such specimens.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

Why use swimming earplugs?

The ear canal forms a hollow in front of the eardrum. If water remains there, this can lead to infections. Still waters such as pools or swimming ponds are ideal environments for bacteria.

Which earplugs are suitable for swimming?

There are special earplugs that protect the ear from the water but do not impair hearing. Discover a selection of the most popular products here.

Where can I buy swimming earplugs?

Both one-size-fits-all and adjustable earplugs can be found in sports stores such as Empty. Simple models are also available in drugstores such as Rossmann or DM. Your hearing care professional will provide you with customized hearing aids. However, the largest selection of swimming earplugs with good return conditions can be found online on Amazon, for example.

Is it dangerous to wear earplugs when swimming?

No. Well-fitted earplugs cannot slip into the ear canal. Make sure that the material cannot break off. The worst case scenario would be that you lose the earplugs.

What should you look out for in swimming earplugs?

They must fit well without causing pain. Various movements must still be possible without them slipping out of the ear. In addition, hearing should not be impaired.

Are there other ways to avoid swimmer’s ears?

You should always check whether there is water in your ear after swimming. Simply grasp the top of the ear with one hand above the head and pull it upwards. Then tilt your head to the side of the ear. Any remaining water can now drain away.

Conclusion: The most popular earplugs reviewed

Well-fitting earplugs are barely noticeable and protect your ears and sense of balance. Bacteria in water are invisible and once they have accumulated in the ear canal they can quickly lead to infections.

No more swimmer’s ear and ear canal infections:

With BeyondSurfing’s buying guide you are guaranteed to find the right earplugs to keep you healthy. There is the right model for every ear shape.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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