Earplugs effectively reduce ambient noise or balance air pressure during flights. With diverse options available, finding the right type ensures optimal protection and comfort.
Common Types of Earplugs
Universal (non-custom) earplugs vary in shapes and sizes. Key factors include usage environment, noise reduction level, fit, and comfort. Many feature specialized filters that attenuate sounds like traffic or music while preserving awareness of surroundings, preventing a fully occluded feeling. Some are disposable after one use, while others are reusable.
Related Reading: How do you know that you have suffered hearing damage?
Alpine SwimSafe
Price: €12.95 via Bol.com
Designed for swimming and showering, these prevent water ingress. Crafted from hypoallergenic AlpineThermoShape™ thermoplastic, silicone-free to avoid allergies.
Pros: Molds to your ear for a secure fit.
Cons: May feel small for larger ear canals.
Key Features: Includes a practical storage box attachable to your wrist or wetsuit zipper.
Proplugs Vented
Price: €19.95, more information via the website
Versatile protection against water, dust, dirt, noise, and pressure changes—ideal for divers. Made from kraton thermoplastic.
Pros: Seals the outer ear without deep insertion, minimizing canal irritation.
Key Features: First-time buyers need a passe-partout (€7) for sizing.
Pluggerz Uni-Fit Sleep
Price: €9.95, via Pluggerz
Engineered for restful sleep in noisy settings. Durable, flexible, anti-allergic silicone for repeated use.
Pros: Filters block disturbances without full isolation—hear your alarm, not your partner's snoring. Soft enough for side-sleeping.
Ohropax Classic
Price: €2.65 or €12.95 for 12 sets via Bol.com
Moldable wax spheres for noise protection. Blend of Vaseline, paraffin wax, and cotton wadding.
Pros: Seals canal fully, suitable for swimming. Easy to resize for small canals.
Cons: Greasy residue; insert before bed to avoid hair stickiness.
Key Features: Proven formula unchanged for over 100 years.
Thunderplugs
Price: from €9.95, including via Bol.com
Tailored for concerts, parties, motorcycling, and more. Special sound filters preserve audio quality at safer volumes.
Pros: Reduces decibels while maintaining clarity; includes keychain case.
Cons: Firmer material may not suit all.
Key Features: Rated best by consumer program Kassa.
Otalgan Earplanes (Adult)
Price: €9.10, via Bol.com
Pressure-regulating earplugs to ease flight discomfort.
Pros: Minimizes pain during takeoff and landing—insert 30 minutes prior.
Key Features: Child-sized version available.
Custom-Made Earplugs
Via the hearing specialist
Precision-fitted by audiologists for personalized use.
Pros: Superior comfort and retention.
Cons: Higher cost, often over €100.
Prefer sleeping to soothing background sounds? Bose earplugs could be ideal.
