Getting water in your ear when you swim is pretty common, but not a lot of fun. For some people, trapped water can cause painful ear infections. It’s important to wear earplugs that provide a tight seal to keep water from getting trapped. Here are a few tips and reviews to help you find the best earplugs for swimming.
10 Best Swimming Earplugs:
1. Mack’s AquaBlock Swimming Earplugs
Review
When shopping for the best waterproof earplugs for swimming, check out the Mack’s AquaBlock Swimming Earplugs. They are waterproof, comfortable, and reusable earplugs that make them perfect for bathing, surfing, showering, snorkeling, and swimming. Design with ultra-soft, high-quality silicone, these super flexible earplugs were designed for water protection and extreme comfort.
With an easy-to-grip stem, you can easily insert and remove them. The AquaBlock Earplugs are ideal for keeping water out of your ears during any water activity. They help to prevent swimmer’s ears and surfer’s ears with their pre-molded and flanged design.
They also come equipped with a durable and high-quality carrying case that makes carrying them around easy and convenient. Plus, it keeps the earplugs clean and protected from wear and tear. These effective and comfortable earplugs give you the incredible sealing ability and a more customized fit than other earplugs.
Pros
- These are comfortable and effective earplugs
- Super flexible earplugs that are pretty comfortable
- You get a handy carrying case to protect them
Cons
- They don’t seem to last long
- The clear earplugs are hard to find once you put them down
2. Speedo Unisex Swim Training Ergo Ear Plugs
Review
Available in one size, the Speedo Unisex Swim Training Earplugs are some of the best swimming earplugs for kids. With the Speedo Ear Plugs, you will appreciate their ergonomic design and tailored fit to the shape of your ear. Comfortable to wear, they are also easy to insert and remove.
Specially engineered for use in the water, the Speedo Ear Plugs will help to keep water out of your ears with their specialized shape that minimizes leakage. Made of 100% moldable silicone material, Speedo Ear Plugs are lightweight enough that swimmers can use them for a long period of time. The material is not only washable and reusable, but they give you a great seal that will keep the water out of your ear canals.
Pros
- They are washable and reusable, which saves you money
- You get a good seal that keeps out water
- They give you a tailored fit that is pretty comfortable
Cons
- Edges are kind of sharp
- The directions on how to use them are wrong
3. Decibullz – Custom Molded Earplugs
Review
These waterproof earplugs for swimming are comfortable ear protection that also protects your ears. You can wear them for concerts, work, swimming, travel, or even shooting. These earplugs fit easily and quickly precisely to the shape of your ear.
All you have to do is heat the molds in boiling water and, after they cool, shape them to your ears. The Decibullz creates the perfect fit that never hurts or falls out, giving you incredible noise isolation. Plus, they are remoldable in case they don’t fit the first time.
Pros
- You can remold them if the fit isn’t right
- They give you great noise cancellation
- They are easy to use and fit in your ears
Cons
- The foam can rip easily
- They stick too far out of your ears and can be pulled out easily
4. Mighty Plugs
Review
Not only are Mighty Plugs swimming earplugs, but they can also block snoring. Perfect for sleeping or swimming, these 100% waterproof swimming earplugs also reduce noise making them great for concerts. Customizable and comfortable, these soft earplugs are reusable and seal out water.
Mighty Plugs are some of the highest-rated earplugs for both noise and water use. With their moldable design, they seal in the ear canal when you insert them. Made with pure natural beeswax, you can create an incredible sound-blocking earplug that is completely hypoallergenic.
These completely waterproof earplugs are perfect for kids and adults, no matter how big or small your ears are. Plus, these earplugs can be used with or under a swim cap in the pool. Mighty Plugs are also multipurpose earplugs that have the highest NRR 34 sound blocking protection.
Pros
- You can use them for a lot of different activities
- They give you a nice seal against water
- They are made with a natural material
Cons
- They will leave a sticky residue on your fingers
- Don’t help to keep out noise
5. SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus Earplugs
Review
These triple-flanged, waterproof earplugs are reusable and hypoallergenic. The SureFire EP4 Ear Plugs allow you to hear without getting in the way of hearing normal conversations or sounds. With the triple-flanged stem design, these earplugs fit large ear canals easily.
Equipped with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 24dB, sounds are allowed to pass into your ear canal at a safe level while harmful noise is reduced. The SureFire Ear Plugs use a proprietary design that utilizes a special noise-reducing filter.
Created with a medical-grade polymer that is hypoallergenic, durable, soft, and long-lasting, the SureFire Ear Plugs feature a low-profile design that allows them to stay in place when you wear a hat, helmet, or mask. These adjustable earplugs provide a secure seal in your ear canal and give you all-day comfort.
Pros
- You can wear them for a while pretty comfortably
- Nice waterproof earplugs that are easy to insert
- They are hypoallergenic and durable
Cons
- They don’t do much to keep out sound
- You have to make sure its in at the correct angle for them to work
6. Putty Buddies Original Swimming Earplugs
Review
Perfect ear protection for swimming, the Putty Buddies Original Swimming Earplugs are super soft and help to block water from getting into your ears. Perfect for kids, these earplugs were created by ENTs using their experience in the field. Not only will they prevent swimmer’s ear, but they are also designed to be worn by anyone that has ear tubes, otitis externa, otitis media, myringotomy tubes, myringotomy, or perforated eardrums.
By keeping your ears dry, these soft silicone earplugs are ideal for use in swimming, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, surfing, and bathing. With a tacky texture, the earplugs easily stay in place with their one size fits all design. These reusable earplugs can be worn by adults or kids, and they last longer than other earplugs on the market.
Easy to mold to your ear, Putty Buddies are recommended by doctors and offer guaranteed ear protection. Kids love their bright colors and how easy they are to wear.
Pros
- They are easy to mold into your ear
- They are ENT approved
- A great choice for anyone with ear issues or tube
Cons
- You can’t wear them with a swim cap
- They have a sticky residue that catches dirt
7. Luiswell Silicone Ear Plugs
Review
For those looking for toddler earplugs for swimming, the Luiswell Silicone Ear Plugs are made with super soft materials and are really comfortable for long periods of time. You get 12 pairs of corded earplugs that you can reuse for swimming and water activities as well as for noise reduction to sleep better, travel, or for hunting and shooting.
These easy-to-clean earplugs are washable and long-lasting. Featuring a three-layer design, they can fully attach to your ear canal. Plus, they are sweat and humidity-resistant helping to prevent moisture from getting into your ear canal.
These non-toxic and pliable earplugs also come with a string that allows you to pull the earplugs out of your ears easily. The Luiswell Ear Plugs are multipurpose earplugs that are effective at reducing background noise without filtering out important sounds like conversations.
Pros
- These are super malleable earplugs that fit well
- The string is really handy to remove the earplugs with
- Reusable and comfortable, these are great for kids
Cons
- They don’t block out noise well
- They only come with one case
8. Every Cares Silicone Swimming Earplugs
Review
Comfortable and waterproof, Every Cares Silicone Swimming Earplugs are some of the best child earplugs for swimming available. Equipped with a case, you get six pairs of earplugs made with medical-grade silicone that is BPA and odor-free. Perfect for any water activity, these earplugs are also recommended for those involved in combat sports.
With their ergonomic fit, you get improved sealing to give you watertight comfort. they are easy to insert and remove, plus they are washable and reusable. Every Cares Earplugs are designed for sensitive and small ear canals with a special tree shape that minimizes leakage and helps to prevent little ears from getting infected.
Pros
- They have a nice ergonomic fit
- Great seal that is also comfortable
- They are easy to put in and take out
Cons
- They are not that great at sound-reducing
- They are uncomfortable for some users
9. Banded Silicone Reusable Washable Ear Plugs by Quality Plugs
Review
Providing noise reduction and safe ear protection during swimming, Quality Plugs features a soft band of silicone that is washable and reusable. Perfect for swimming, sleeping, concerts, hunting, and motorsports. Made with high-quality silicone, these smooth earplugs are comfortable and safe to wear.
Equipped with a convenient headband, Quality Plugs can reduce noise up to 29dB for safe listening and enhanced music. Providing safe sound levels, you can still hear music and conversations clearly while protecting your hearing from loud athletic and music events. They also help provide the quiet you need to sleep and study in peace.
Created to duplicate the natural response of your ear canal, these high-fidelity earplugs reduce the risk of damage to your hearing and water from getting in. Allowing sound to come through at a quieter level while blocking water, these non-toxic earplugs are an inexpensive and compact way to deal with loud environments and provide ear protection during swimming.
Pros
- They are reusable and washable
- These earplugs are safe and comfortable to wear
- They let you hear conversations pretty easily
Cons
- The frame needs to be larger
- They are too small for some users
10. Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs
Review
These waterproof silicone earplugs are a comfortable way to reduce noise and protect your ears while swimming. Perfect for airplanes, concerts, swimming, and sleeping, these noise reduction earplugs are reusable and come in three colors.
You can use these earplugs to help protect your ears from harm or water that fits tightly into your ear canal without pain. Ideal for any loud environment or water activity, these silicone earplugs are handy to have with you at all times.
Pros
- These earplugs are waterproof and noise reducing
- They are ideal for sleeping and swimming
- They give you a nice tight fit that stops water from getting in
Cons
- They slip out a lot
- The glue holding the cord in doesn’t work well
Considerations When Choosing Swimming Ear Plugs
Material
When shopping for the best type of earplugs for swimming, it’s important to consider the material they are made of. Also, consider your allergies when checking the materials to make sure it is safe to use.
Earplugs can be made of either foam or silicone, which allows them to mold specifically to your ear. Both materials are malleable and waterproof and will contour quickly and easily to your ear while they moisture out.
Some silicone comes with a seal that will stop your ear from becoming full of water while softer silicone will mold to your ear when they are used giving you a tighter fit.
Foam earplugs are fast and easy to insert, taking no time to fit, and they will expand in your ear to fill up any gap on the edge of the inner ear to stop water from getting it.
Fit
Soft silicone and foam earplugs will fit whenever you put them in, so you never have to worry about them. In comparison, a hard silicone set of earplugs will require you to buy the right size that will fit your ear best.
Just like earbuds, you need to know the size of your ears to ensure you get a waterproof fit. The size of the seal also varies, so make sure you get the right size to make sure your earplugs are effective.
Reusable or Disposable
Earplugs also come in disposable or reusable models. Disposable earplugs are easy to use and you no longer have to worry about them once you are done.
Since you throw them away anyway, you really don’t have to worry about keeping track of them or be concerned if they get damaged or dirty. But, keep in mind, they won’t be as good at keeping water out of your ear.
Reusable earplugs are much more cost-efficient and are easy to carry with you wherever you go. While they do save you money, they also protect your ears better. And in the end, that’s the most important difference between the two.
Recommended for reading: Best swim jammers and Best swimming goggles
Earplugs for Swimming FAQ
Are earplugs comfortable while swimming?
As long as you know how to use silicone earplugs correctly, they should be pretty comfortable. Most people can barely feel the earplugs, which are similar to earbuds in that you can’t tell they are in, but they aren’t uncomfortable. Many are made from soft silicone and foam, so you barely feel them.
How do I put in silicone earplugs?
Easy to insert, it all depends on the type you buy. With soft silicone swimming earplugs, they are designed to mold to the entrance of your ear after you push them in, which prevents water from entering. Foam earplugs are similar, but they actually expand after they are inserted to the size of your ear to keep water out.
With hard silicone swimming earplugs, you get a product that is more like headphones that are simply pushed in. Their seals are a little softer, and they touch the inside of your ear canal in several places to keep water from entering.
Why do I need earplugs for swimming?
Not only do they keep you more comfortable, but they also prevent water from becoming trapped in your inner ear by ear wax. Once water is trapped there, it can make you feel funny and cause an ear infection. Some water that has bacteria in it can even make you sick.
If you have tubes or consistent ear problems, it’s also a good idea to wear earplugs when you swim. Water pressure can be painful to some people and going underwater can make some people’s ears pop as they swim, which can become uncomfortable.
Conclusion
The winner of the best earplugs for the swimming roundup is the Mack’s AquaBlock Swimming Earplugs. Waterproof, comfortable, and reusable, these earplugs are perfect for bathing, surfing, showering, snorkeling, and swimming. Designed with ultra-soft, high-quality silicone, these super flexible earplugs were designed for water protection and extreme comfort.
With an easy-to-grip stem, you can easily insert and remove the AquaBlock Earplugs. They are ideal for keeping water out of your ears during any water activity and help to prevent swimmer’s ears and surfer’s ears with their pre-molded and flanged design. The definite winner of the best earplugs for swimming roundup is the Mack’s AquaBlock Swimming Earplugs hands down.