Swimming is a beloved activity enjoyed by people of all ages, whether it’s for recreation, fitness or competitive sport. One common issue that can dampen the enjoyment of swimmers is water entering the ear canal, which can lead to discomfort, ear infections or a condition commonly known as swimmer’s ear. To combat this, ear plugs for swimming are designed to provide a watertight seal, protecting the ears from water while not compromising the wearer’s comfort or ability to hear.

Ear plugs vary in material and design, with options ranging from silicone, wax, and plastic. Silicone ear plugs are moldable and can be shaped to fit the unique contours of the wearer’s ear, offering a customizable fit. Plastic models often come with specialized designs that include flanged or tiered sections for a secure hold within the ear canal. Wax ear plugs, on the other hand, are malleable and can be softened by the warmth of your fingers before application, ensuring a snug fit that conforms to the ear’s shape.

When choosing ear plugs for swimming, it is crucial to consider the fit, comfort, and the ear plug’s ability to keep water out without inhibiting hearing. The material should be durable and hypoallergenic to prevent skin irritation. Additionally, the ease of insertion and removal is important, as well as the ear plugs’ visibility in the water in case they are dislodged. Some ear plugs also come with additional features such as a cord to keep pairs together or a carrying case for hygiene and convenience.

We have analyzed a variety of options and tested them rigorously in different swimming environments to bring you reliable information. Good swimming ear plugs should be comfortable for long periods, prevent water ingress, and be easy to handle, ensuring swimmers of all levels can focus on their performance or simply enjoy their time in the water.

Top Picks for Swimming Ear Plugs

In our search for optimal swimming experiences, we have identified a selection of ear plugs that stand out for their quality, comfort, and reliability. Our selection criteria ensure that every product listed meets our high standards for sealing out water effectively while remaining comfortable during long swim sessions. Whether you swim competitively or for leisure, we are confident our recommended ear plugs will enhance your time in the water by protecting your ears without sacrificing comfort.

Mack’s AquaBlock Earplugs

 

We find these earplugs comfortable for swimming and an excellent choice for keeping water at bay.

Pros

• Superior comfort due to ultra-soft silicone
• Customizable fit with Flex Stem design
• Reusable with a convenient storage case

Cons

• May require effort to insert properly
• Not a universal fit for every ear type
• May become less secure over prolonged use

Swimming with Mack’s AquaBlock Earplugs is a game-changer. The silicone is so soft that wearing them is a breeze, even for extended periods. The flexible stem allows for easy adjustment, which is critical when you’re in and out of the water frequently. After a few laps in the pool, it’s noticeable how effective they are at keeping the water out.

Durability is a strong suit with these, as they’re reusable and washable. Unlike other earplugs that degrade over time, Mack’s AquaBlock Earplugs maintain their form and function for numerous swims. After using them, just wash them off and pop them back into their case, which is robust and handy for travel.

However, getting them to fit snugly can be a bit of a challenge at first. They’re soft and pliable, which is great for comfort but means you might need to spend a little more effort to get them properly seated in your ear canal. In some cases, they might not match the ear’s contour perfectly, which can lead to them becoming slightly loose during vigorous activity. Nevertheless, with proper adjustment, they serve their purpose well.

FNGXX Earplugs for Swimming

 

We find these swimming earplugs an excellent choice for their comfort and effectiveness in water protection.

Pros

• Conform nicely to the ear, providing a snug fit
• Stay put during various water activities
• Can be cleaned and used multiple times

Cons

• May not fit perfectly in all ear types
• Limited color selection
• Storage cases might be considered bulky by some

Swimming sessions have become more enjoyable with the FNGXX Earplugs. The soft silicone material feels premium and doesn’t irritate our ears after prolonged use. It’s rekindled our joy of hitting the pool without the fear of getting water trapped in our ears.

The design really caters to the concerns swimmers have about losing earplugs mid-stroke. These earplugs cling securely, even when we’re pushing off forcefully from the pool walls or tackling open water with waves.

Though the earplugs offer customized fits to most of our team members, we acknowledge that they might not be universal. Pool companions with particularly small or large ears mentioned they had to adjust them a few times. Also, while the variety of colors is a nice touch, we’ve heard a desire for more options.

The included cases mean we don’t misplace them as easily, and they’re protected from damage at the bottom of our swim bags. However, a smaller profile for these cases would make them easier to stash in our already crowded gear bags.

WaterDam Ear Plugs

 

We think you’ll appreciate these ear plugs for their snug fit and exceptional comfort during water activities.

Pros

• Snug fit prevents water from entering the ears
• Comfortable design allows for extended use without ear pain
• Variety of sizes ensures a good fit for different ear canals

Cons

• May require trial and error to find the perfect size
• Can be lost easily if not securely fitted
• Not completely sound proof, some ambient noise still audible

These WaterDam Swimming Ear Plugs have changed how we experience water sports. While we’re engaged in energetic swimming or just enjoying some leisure time in the pool, it’s impressive how well they prevent water from getting inside our ears. They fit snugly without applying unnecessary pressure, helpful when we’re aiming for a long, uninterrupted swim.

The unique design of these ear plugs is central to their performance. Made from a soft silicone, they’re easy to insert and, once in place, we hardly notice them. This comfort is crucial and means we’re less focused on what’s in our ears and more on our swim strokes. Plus, the dual-size option caters well to our varied needs, providing options for differently shaped ear canals across our team.

However, it isn’t always smooth sailing on the first try. We had to test out the sizes to find the one that would not slip or leak. Once we found our fit, though, the difference was night and day. Unfortunately, due to their small and soft nature, misplacing them can be an issue. Also, while we appreciate being able to hear some surrounding sounds, those in need of a quieter swim may find they let through more noise than expected. Overall, the positives of the WaterDam Ear Plugs greatly outweigh the minor hiccups.

Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs

 

We believe that these ear plugs are a solid choice for swimmers seeking a reliable water barrier with a comfortable fit.

Pros

• Excellent ergonomics for a snug fit
• Easy insertion and removal process
• Includes a handy storage case

Cons

• Can become less effective when wet over extended periods
• May feel slightly uncomfortable until properly adjusted
• Not suitable for those with very small ear canals

After slipping the Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs into our ears, we immediately noticed the tailored fit. The material felt soft and pliable, molding to the contours of the ear without causing any pressure or discomfort. Our swimming session was distraction-free, with these ear plugs effectively blocking water entry.

These ear plugs are straightforward to use; they slide into place without fuss and stay put throughout vigorous activity. Whether it’s a leisurely swim or a series of intense laps, they have consistently prevented water from creeping in, which is crucial for anyone prone to ear infections.

We appreciate the convenience of the included storage case, keeping the ear plugs safe and clean when not in use. Admittedly, after prolonged time in the water, we felt the need to readjust the plugs as they seemed to lose some grip due to moisture. Nevertheless, their performance for typical swim durations has been dependable.

Mack’s Pillow Soft Earplugs

 

We find these earplugs to be a top-notch choice for swimmers seeking reliable ear protection without sacrificing comfort.

Pros

• Conforms perfectly to the ear
• Dual-purpose for sleep and water activities
• Trusted by healthcare professionals

Cons

• May not stick well for every user
• Limited noise cancellation capabilities
• May require frequent washing

After a quick dip in the pool with Mack’s Pillow Soft Earplugs, the first thing we noticed was the remarkable comfort. Thanks to the moldable silicone, they adapted seamlessly to the shape of our ears, providing a snug, watertight seal. It’s not just about keeping water out; it’s also the confidence to focus on swimming without the distraction of water trickling in.

In addition to their watertight seal, what truly sets these earplugs apart is their multipurpose functionality. Whether we’re looking to muffle a partner’s snoring or need peace for studying, these earplugs serve well beyond the pool. Indeed, it’s a versatile tool in our daily arsenal, though they are best for waterside activities.

Their popularity among doctors is well-founded; we can see why professionals endorse them for their efficacy and safety. However, we did notice that when it comes to noise blocking, they don’t cancel out sound as effectively as some other earplugs explicitly designed for noise reduction. That said, for general use, they muffle enough sound to provide a serene escape.

Remember, even the stickiest silicone may need adjusting now and then, especially for those with different ear shapes or sizes. And since hygiene is paramount, we make sure to clean them as directed to maintain their effectiveness.

Honbay Silicone Earplugs

 

If you value ear protection while swimming without sacrificing comfort, these earplugs are a smart choice for their flexibility and effectiveness.

Pros

• Flexibility ensures a snug fit for various ear sizes
• Vibrant selection of colors to choose from or share
• Multipurpose use beyond swimming for noise reduction

Cons

• May require trimming for smaller ear canals
• Can be easily misplaced due to small size
• Not suitable for those preferring hard-molded options

Recently, we tried the Honbay Silicone Earplugs during our swimming sessions. What stood out immediately was their soft texture, molding to the contours of our ears with ease. They didn’t budge throughout vigorous laps, a testament to their snug fit.

Besides swimming, we’ve taken these earplugs along for a concert. They offered a substantial shield from the blaring speakers whilst still allowing us to appreciate the music. Their versatility truly impressed us.

However, a friend with very small ears had to cut hers down a bit. Although a minor inconvenience, keep in mind that some personal adjustment might be needed. Enjoying a splash around without the worry of water in our ears, these earplugs have quickly become a part of our swim gear arsenal.

 

Buying Guide

Material

When we’re choosing ear plugs for swimming, it’s essential to consider the material. Silicon ear plugs are popular as they are moldable and water-resistant. Others may prefer soft plastic or rubber for comfort and fit.

Fit and Comfort

A snug fit is crucial for preventing water from entering the ear canal. We should look for ear plugs that can be shaped to fit our ears or come in multiple sizes. Some ear plugs are labeled for different ear types, like for children or adults with smaller ear canals.

Noise Reduction

While noise reduction is not the primary function of swimming ear plugs, it can be a consideration. If we need to hear certain noises like a coach’s whistle, we’ll want to ensure the ear plugs do not overly muffle sound.

Durability

Swimming ear plugs should withstand regular exposure to water and chlorine without degrading quickly. We want a durable pair that doesn’t need to be replaced frequently, which is more cost-effective in the long run.

Maintenance

Easy-to-clean ear plugs are a better choice, as we can maintain hygiene and prevent ear infections. Look for non-porous materials that aren’t prone to collecting bacteria.

Feature	Why it Matters
Material	For water resistance and molding
Fit and Comfort	To prevent water entry
Noise Reduction	To hear necessary sounds clearly
Durability	To ensure long-term use
Maintenance	For hygiene and ease of cleaning