Whether you do it to compete, stay in shape or just for a bit of fun, swimming is a great workout with a lot of benefits. The activity does, however, require entering a water-filled environment which is definitely less comfortable for some more than others. Problems like ear infections or damaged ear drums can be enough to deter potential swimmers. For this reason, many people choose to wear earplugs when swimming.
So what are the best earplugs for swimming? A lot of that depends on why you’re getting in the pool in the first place. If you’re susceptible to common conditions, like swimmer’s ear or or other ear infections, preventing any water from entering your ears is a good idea. For more serious swimmers, earplugs can help to lessen external sound and allow for focus on technique. Some swimmers even claim earplugs help them swim faster.
Below, you’ll find 11 options to choose from for the job of preventing water from entering your ears. There are earplugs for adults and children as well as earplugs that include handy carry cases or are joined by a cord to make losing them a little bit harder. Whatever potential problems you may have when it comes to getting in the water, find the right pair of earplugs to ensure wet ears isn’t one of them.
1. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs
BEST OVERALL
Using a silicone formula which was originally created in 1962, these well-loved Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs have been successfully providing ear protection for people for decades. Inside this pack, you’ll find six pairs of these doctor-recommended plugs which easily mold to the contours of your ears for a comfortable and effective fit. The airtight and waterproof seal prevents water from passing into your ears. In addition to swimming, these hypoallergenic and non-toxic earplugs can be used to block out snoring partners, provide focus during study and even reduce loud music at concerts.
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2. Hearprotek Swimmer Ear Plugs
ERGONOMIC FIT
If you’re worried about your swimming ear plugs hurting after the first lap or not fitting properly, these swimming ear plugs are worth trying out. They’re designed to fit ergonomically and are made of soft silicone that’s so comfortable you may even forget you’re wearing it. These ear plugs come with three different sizes of the securing wings so you can pick what works best for you and get a contoured fit that will stay in place. Each pack includes two pairs with their own reusable case and they come in two different bright colors.
3. Speedo Ergo Earplugs
BEST PERSONAL PLUGS
With over 600 five-star reviews from swimmers happy with the job they do, you can be confident when purchasing these Speedo Ergo Earplugs. Their specialized shape helps them form a water- and air-tight seal in your ear to minimize leakage, while the lightweight material ensures you’re comfortable during use. The handle on each plug makes the inserting and removal process especially simple, while the included case gives you a safe place to store your earplugs between sessions in the pool.
4. TYR Soft Silicone Earplugs
BEST BUDGET
The TYR Soft Silicone Earplugs are loved by swimmers, not just because the high-quality silicone plugs provide protection from water and sound, allowing you to focus on your technique and speed. They’re also loved because of their budget-friendly price. The plugs come with a handy storage case so you can keep them in your gym or swimming bag without worry, knowing they’re always there when you need them. These earplugs are ideal for training and showering, too.
5. Putty Buddies Original Swimming Earplugs
BEST FOR KIDS
The Putty Buddies Original Swimming Earplugs are a great choice for kids and adults alike. They are extra soft and tacky, making them easier to fit in the ears for a secure barrier between your inner ear and the water. These doctor-recommended plugs are available in a range of colors which appeal to children. They also come in three-set boxes and include a handy carry case featuring a fun animal character on the front, furthering the appeal to younger swimmers.
6. Every Cares Silicone Swimming Earplugs
MOST COLORFUL
Another colorful option are the Every Cares Silicone Swimming Earplugs. These earplugs are a great option for households who want to identify earplug owners by color. The six-pair packs also include a storage case for each individual pair which is ideal for homes with multiple swimmers. Plus, the Christmas tree-like earplugs are great for swimming, showering and bathing and are also constructed from a flexible silicone which is both BPA and odor-free.
7. Luiswell Silicone Earplugs
BEST CORDED
The Luiswell Silicone Earplugs combine comfort and security with their corded, silicone construction. These versatile earplugs are great for all kinds of occasions, including preventing water intake during swimming and showering as well as noise-related events, like gun ranges and concerts. The flexible silicone makes fitting the plugs easy and also ensures a comfortable fit, too. The set includes one single storage case and 12 pairs of earplugs which can be washed and reused over and over.
8. Yaomiao Waterproof Silicone Earplugs
MOST VERSATILE
If you’re looking for a pair of earplugs for swimming, sleeping, studying, working and more, these Yaomiao Waterproof Silicone Earplugs fit the bill. There are 12 different colors to choose from inside this 24-pair set, and each comes with its very own storage case, making them a great choice for large groups of families who may need more than one pair. Furthermore, the Christmas tree-like design makes them easy to fit in your ears and ensures they remain secure throughout use.
9. SwimStar Swim Goggles With Ear Plugs
BEST BUILT-IN
If you always swim with goggles and earplugs, why not try a pair of these goggles from SwimStar? The smart design sports built-in earplugs, which means if you have one, you always have the other and don’t need to go searching through your bag to find your plugs. The lenses in these ergonomically-designed goggles have been treated with an anti-fog covering to keep your vision clear as you go, and are designed to not leak no matter how rigorous your stroke is. Furthermore, the adjustable straps and buckle help ensure you enjoy a secure and comfortable wearing experience.
10. Ear Band-It Ultra Swimming Headband
BEST HEADBAND
While this Ear Band-It Ultra Swimming Headband is not actually a set earplugs, it can be used to help keep them securely in place. This is a great idea for kids and adults alike and puts a barrier between your earplugs and the water. This attractive piece of swimwear is available in a range of different colors and designs, including bright green, bright pink and one covered with sharks.
11. Rvnor Reusable Silicone Swimming Ear Plugs Set
BEST SET
This pack from Rvnor comes with six different sets of ear plugs as well as six different nose clips so you won’t run out anytime soon. The ear plugs are made of soft, comfortable, flexible silicone, and have an ergonomically-molded design similar to the nose clip. Each set is reusable, and the pack comes with a case for transporting them to and from the pool. These ear plugs and nose clips are designed to fit both kids and adults, and come in a variety of fun, bright colors.
12. ANBOW Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs
BEST FOR TRAVEL
These silicone ear plugs for swimmers come with their own case and travel pouch, so keeping them protected on the road is easy. They’ve got noise reduction and ear protection capabilities, and are made of high-grade silicone that’s BPA-free, washable and reusable. The material they’re made of is soft and comfortable, and can be used just as well outside of the pool as inside the pool for noise reduction on planes, trains or buses. If you’re a traveling swimmer who regularly competes in meets all over the place, these are a great option for you. The pack also comes with six so you’ll have plenty to work with after just one purchase.
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