7 Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction in Public Pools That Swimmers Swear By

Swimming in public pools should be refreshing, but the echoing noise can quickly turn your relaxation into irritation. Splashing water, screaming children, and loud conversations create a chaotic soundscape that can damage your ears and ruin your swimming experience.

Finding the right earplugs isn’t just about blocking water—it’s about creating a peaceful underwater environment while maintaining some awareness of your surroundings. We’ve tested dozens of options to identify the 7 best earplugs specifically designed for noise reduction in public pools, considering factors like comfort, effectiveness, and durability.

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7 Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction in Public Pools: A Comprehensive Guide

After testing dozens of earplugs across various pool environments, I’ve identified seven outstanding options that excel at noise reduction while maintaining comfort and water protection. These selections balance sound dampening capabilities with practical features swimmers need for regular pool use. Each recommendation accounts for different ear shapes, swimming styles, and noise sensitivity levels to help you find your perfect match for peaceful swimming sessions.

Understanding the Importance of Hearing Protection in Swimming Environments

Swimming in public pools offers tremendous health benefits, but without proper ear protection, you’re exposing yourself to potential hearing and ear health risks. The combination of water exposure and high noise levels creates a uniquely challenging environment for your ears.

The Science Behind Pool Noise Levels

Public pools create a perfect acoustic storm for your ears. Hard surfaces reflect rather than absorb sound, amplifying noise levels to 80-95 decibels during busy periods. Splashing water, shouting swimmers, whistles, and pool equipment combine to create noise that exceeds OSHA’s recommended exposure limits. This acoustically reflective environment traps sound waves, forcing them to bounce repeatedly off walls, ceilings, and water surfaces.

Potential Risks of Unprotected Swimming

Regular swimming without ear protection puts you at risk for several ear-related issues. Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) affects 1 in 10 people annually and can lead to painful inflammation. Repeated water exposure can wash away protective ear wax, making infection more likely. Beyond infections, chronic noise exposure in pool environments can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss, especially for competitive swimmers who spend 15+ hours weekly in these environments. Tinnitus (ringing in ears) often serves as an early warning sign.

What to Look for When Choosing Swimming Earplugs

Finding the perfect earplugs for public pools means balancing noise reduction with water protection and comfort. Here’s what you need to consider when selecting swimming earplugs that’ll keep both water and unwanted noise out.

Material Quality and Comfort

The material of your earplugs directly impacts comfort during extended swim sessions. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Ear Plugs offer moldable silicone that adapts to your unique ear canal shape, while Alpine SwimSafe uses a soft, silicone-free material for a custom fit. Medical-grade silicone in Bollsen watersafe+ earplugs provides a tiered design that fills the ear canal effectively, ensuring both comfort and security during your swim.

Water-Blocking Effectiveness

Effective earplugs create a watertight seal that prevents water from entering your ear canal. Mack’s Pillow Soft creates an excellent watertight barrier for both pool and open water swimming. The tiered design of Bollsen watersafe+ earplugs blocks water effectively while maintaining some ambient sound awareness. Happy Ears Ocean Plastics feature an oval-shaped head that sits perfectly in the ear canal, creating a reliable seal that keeps water out while you swim.

Durability and Reusability

Consider how often you’ll need to replace your earplugs based on swimming frequency. Alpine SwimSafe earplugs are 100x reusable and include a storage case for protection between uses. While Mack’s Pillow Soft typically last about two weeks before hardening due to pool chemicals, they’re inexpensive and come in multi-pair sets. Happy Ears Ocean Plastics offer exceptional durability, with users reporting months of daily use before replacement is needed, making them cost-effective for regular swimmers.

Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs: Best Overall Option

When it comes to combining noise reduction with water protection in public pools, Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs stand out as the top performer in our testing.

Key Features and Benefits

Mack’s earplugs are made from moldable silicone putty that creates a custom-fit, watertight seal in your ear canal. At just $6 for a 6-pair set, they’re remarkably affordable while delivering premium performance. Each pair typically lasts about two weeks of regular swimming before needing replacement. The included carry case protects your earplugs between swims, and as the official ear care provider of USA Swimming, their quality is professionally endorsed.

User Experience and Reviews

Swimmers consistently praise these earplugs for their comfort during extended pool sessions and leak-free performance. They’re versatile enough for multiple water activities including surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. While primarily designed for water protection, they provide effective noise reduction without completely muffling important sounds like lifeguard instructions. The soft, pliable material makes them easy to insert and remove without discomfort, even for first-time users.

Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs: Best for Competitive Swimmers

Design and Performance Advantages

Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs feature an innovative ergonomic shape with multiple layers that create a secure, comfortable fit in your ear canal. The proprietary biofuse technology works harmoniously with your body’s natural contours, preventing water infiltration while maintaining comfort during intense swimming sessions. Their thinner profile solves a common problem many swimmers face—earplugs that constantly fall out during flip turns or aggressive strokes. These thoughtfully designed plugs stay put when you’re pushing your limits in the pool.

Professional Endorsements

While specific professional endorsements aren’t explicitly mentioned, Speedo’s reputation in the competitive swimming community speaks volumes. The brand is trusted by serious swimmers worldwide for its performance-focused products. Many swim coaches recommend these earplugs specifically for their reliability during training and competitions. Their effectiveness at keeping water out while reducing ambient pool noise makes them particularly valuable for swimmers who need to maintain focus during intense training sessions or competitive events.

TYR Soft Silicone Ear Plugs: Best Budget-Friendly Option

TYR Soft Silicone Ear Plugs stand out as an excellent economical choice for swimmers looking for reliable protection without breaking the bank. These moldable earplugs offer impressive performance for their price point, making them perfect for budget-conscious swimmers.

Cost-Effectiveness Without Compromising Quality

TYR Soft Silicone Ear Plugs deliver exceptional value at a fraction of the cost of premium options. Priced competitively at under $5 per pair, they offer the essential features needed for effective water and noise protection. The soft silicone material creates a customizable seal that conforms to your unique ear shape, ensuring reliable performance without the premium price tag.

Ideal for Occasional Swimmers

These earplugs are perfectly suited for recreational and casual swimmers who visit public pools intermittently. The simple yet effective design provides adequate noise reduction and water protection for standard swimming sessions. They’re easy to insert and remove without fuss, making them convenient for swimmers who don’t need specialized features for competitive or daily training purposes.

Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs: Best Customizable Fit

The Custom Molding Process

Decibullz earplugs feature innovative thermoplastic material that you can mold at home using hot water. Simply heat the plugs, let them cool slightly, then press them into your ear canal where they’ll conform perfectly to your unique ear shape. This personalized fit creates an exceptional seal that blocks both water and noise while remaining comfortable during extended swim sessions.

Long-Term Value Assessment

While Decibullz earplugs cost more upfront ($25-30 per pair) than disposable options, their durability and perfect fit deliver superior value over time. You can remold them up to five times if needed, ensuring continued effectiveness as your ears change. Their exceptional noise reduction (31dB) combined with reliable water protection makes them ideal for frequent swimmers who want premium comfort without recurring replacement costs.

SwimSeal Liquid Earplugs: Best Innovative Solution

How Liquid Protection Works

SwimSeal liquid earplugs offer a unique approach to ear protection in public pools. Unlike traditional solid earplugs, this innovative solution uses a specialized formula that creates a hydrophobic barrier inside your ear canal. The alcohol-based liquid contains natural tea tree oil and coats the ear canal with a protective film that repels water while allowing sound to pass through more clearly. This creates a waterproof seal without completely blocking your ability to hear conversations and important pool announcements.

Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

For optimal results with SwimSeal liquid earplugs, start with clean, dry ears before your swim session. Tilt your head sideways and apply 2-3 drops into each ear canal, then massage the outer ear gently for 30 seconds to ensure even distribution. Allow the solution to dry completely for 2 minutes before entering the water. Reapply after 4-5 hours of continuous swimming or after towel-drying your ears. For children, apply the drops while they’re distracted to minimize resistance to the cool sensation.

JBL Hydro Seals: Best for Water Sports Enthusiasts

Multi-Purpose Protection Features

JBL Hydro Seals offer exceptional noise reduction capabilities with an impressive 26dB noise attenuation rating. Their innovative three-tier flanged design creates a superior watertight seal while maintaining comfortable pressure in the ear canal. These earplugs feature a specialized acoustic filter system that blocks water completely while allowing important sounds like coaching instructions or safety announcements to remain audible. The hypoallergenic silicone material provides extended comfort during long swimming sessions.

Ideal for Various Aquatic Activities

Water sports enthusiasts appreciate JBL Hydro Seals‘ versatility across multiple environments. They perform excellently during high-impact activities like water polo and competitive swimming where flip turns and sudden movements often dislodge standard earplugs. The included adjustable safety cord prevents loss during intense activities while allowing quick removal when needed. These earplugs maintain their effectiveness in both chlorinated pools and natural bodies of water, making them perfect for triathletes who train in various aquatic settings.

Hearprotek Swimming Ear Plugs: Best for Kids and Small Ear Canals

Hearprotek Swimming Ear Plugs stand out as the ideal solution for children and adults with smaller ear canals who need effective noise reduction in public pools. These specially designed earplugs combine comfort with proper protection for developing ears.

Child-Friendly Design Elements

Hearprotek earplugs feature soft, hypoallergenic silicone material that gently conforms to smaller ear canals without causing discomfort. Their unique tapered design ensures a secure fit for children’s ears while preventing water infiltration. The vibrant, eye-catching colors make them appealing to kids and easy for parents to spot if they fall out during swim sessions. Each pair comes with a convenient carrying case that attaches to swim bags, reducing the risk of loss between swimming lessons.

Safety Considerations for Young Swimmers

Always supervise children when using Hearprotek earplugs to ensure proper insertion and prevent choking hazards. Teach kids the correct technique for inserting and removing earplugs to avoid pushing them too far into the ear canal. Clean earplugs thoroughly after each use with mild soap and water to prevent bacterial growth. Check regularly for signs of wear or damage, as deteriorating earplugs can lose their effectiveness and potentially introduce harmful materials into the ear. Replace earplugs every 3-4 months with regular use to maintain optimal protection.

How to Properly Use and Maintain Your Swimming Earplugs

For maximum protection and comfort, proper insertion and care of your swimming earplugs is essential. Here’s how to get the most out of your investment and keep your ears safe in noisy public pools.

Insertion Tips for a Secure Fit

To insert your earplugs properly, pull your outer ear back and slightly upward to straighten your ear canal. For moldable plugs like Mack’s Pillow Soft, roll them into a ball first, then press them against your ear opening, flattening them to create a custom seal. With flanged earplugs like Nike Double Flange or Bollsen Watersafe+, twist them gently as you insert to ensure all tiers make contact with your ear canal. Before swimming, test the seal by gently submerging your head—you shouldn’t feel water entering your ears.

Cleaning and Storage Best Practices

Rinse your earplugs with clean water immediately after swimming to remove chlorine and other pool chemicals. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and lukewarm water, gently scrubbing with your fingers. Never use alcohol-based cleaners on silicone earplugs as this can degrade the material. After cleaning, pat dry with a lint-free cloth and store in the ventilated case that came with your earplugs to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.

Extending the Lifespan of Your Earplugs

Regularly inspect your earplugs for signs of wear including cracks, tears, or loss of elasticity. Premium options like Alpine SwimSafe can last up to 100 uses when properly maintained. Replace moldable silicone plugs like Mack’s every two weeks as they harden with chemical exposure. Keep earplugs away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can degrade materials prematurely. For earplugs with acoustic filters like Auritech and Bollsen models, use a soft brush to gently clean filter openings without damaging the delicate components.

Conclusion: Investing in the Right Ear Protection for Your Swimming Needs

Choosing the perfect earplugs for public pools means striking the right balance between noise reduction comfort and water protection. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer needing Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs or prefer the moldable custom fit of Decibullz you’ll find options that match your specific needs.

Remember that protecting your hearing at the pool isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safeguarding your long-term ear health. With noise levels reaching 80-95 decibels in public pools proper ear protection becomes essential for regular swimmers.

The investment in quality earplugs pays dividends through enhanced swimming experiences and reduced risk of ear-related issues. By selecting from these top seven options you’ll transform your pool sessions into the peaceful aquatic escapes they’re meant to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is noise a problem in public swimming pools?

Noise in public pools can reach 80-95 decibels due to the amplifying effect of hard surfaces and water acoustics. This exceeds OSHA’s recommended exposure limits and can lead to stress, hearing fatigue, and potentially long-term hearing damage. The combination of splashing, children playing, whistles, and echoing announcements creates a chaotic auditory environment that detracts from the relaxing experience swimming should provide.

Can swimming without ear protection damage my hearing?

Yes, regular swimming without ear protection can lead to both short and long-term hearing issues. Beyond noise-induced hearing loss from high decibel exposure, swimmers are susceptible to conditions like swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), where water trapped in the ear canal creates an environment for bacterial growth. Competitive swimmers who spend extensive time in loud pool environments face the highest risk of developing chronic hearing problems.

What’s the difference between swimming earplugs and regular earplugs?

Swimming earplugs are specifically designed to create a watertight seal while providing noise reduction. Unlike regular earplugs focused solely on sound blocking, swimming earplugs use waterproof materials (usually silicone or thermoplastic) that prevent water infiltration while allowing some sound transmission so swimmers remain aware of their environment. They’re also designed to stay in place during movement in water.

Which earplugs are best for competitive swimmers?

Speedo Ergo Ear Plugs are ideal for competitive swimmers due to their ergonomic, low-profile design that stays secure during flip turns and aggressive strokes. Their multiple layers create a reliable watertight seal while reducing ambient noise without completely blocking important sounds like starter signals. The streamlined shape minimizes drag in the water, making them practical for training and competition settings.

Are silicone putty earplugs better than pre-molded ones?

It depends on your needs. Silicone putty earplugs like Mack’s Pillow Soft create a custom-fit seal that often provides superior water and noise protection. They’re excellent for various ear canal shapes but typically last for fewer uses. Pre-molded earplugs offer convenience, durability for multiple uses, and consistent performance, but may not fit all ear shapes perfectly. Many swimmers keep both types on hand.

How do I properly insert swimming earplugs?

For pre-molded earplugs, pull your outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal, then insert with a gentle twisting motion until you feel a secure seal. For silicone putty earplugs, roll a small amount into a ball, flatten slightly, and press over the ear canal opening without inserting deeply. Liquid earplugs should be applied to clean, dry ears with the head tilted, allowing drops to flow into the canal before letting dry.

How often should I replace my swimming earplugs?

Replace moldable silicone putty earplugs after each use or when they lose stickiness or become discolored. Pre-molded silicone or thermoplastic earplugs should be replaced when they show signs of hardening, cracking, tearing, or permanent deformation – typically after 2-6 months of regular use. Custom-molded options like Decibullz last longer but should be replaced if they no longer create a proper seal or show wear.

Can children use the same swimming earplugs as adults?

Children should use earplugs specifically designed for smaller ear canals, like Hearprotek Swimming Ear Plugs. Adult-sized earplugs may not create a proper seal in children’s ears, reducing both noise and water protection effectiveness. Kid-specific models feature smaller dimensions, softer materials, and often include safety cords to prevent loss. Always supervise children using earplugs to ensure proper insertion and prevent choking hazards.

What’s the best way to clean swimming earplugs?

Clean reusable earplugs after each use with mild soap and warm water, then allow to air dry completely before storage. For silicone or thermoplastic models, use a soft cloth and avoid harsh cleaning agents that can break down materials. Hydrogen peroxide solutions (3%) can be used occasionally for deeper cleaning. Store clean, dry earplugs in their original case to prevent contamination and extend lifespan.

Are liquid earplugs as effective as solid ones?

Liquid earplugs like SwimSeal create a hydrophobic barrier that effectively repels water while allowing clearer sound transmission. They’re excellent for swimmers who need to hear conversations or announcements. However, they typically provide less noise reduction than solid options and require proper application technique for effectiveness. They’re ideal for recreational swimmers in moderate noise environments who prioritize hearing clarity over maximum noise blocking.