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Surfplugs
Summary: The plugs kept my ears warm and dry, and stayed in. Job done!
From Surfplugs.co.uk
These are custom made earplugs that aim to provide the best possible protection
against Surfer's Ear. So if you already have developed this condition and high
protection is a must, or if you a lot in cold windy surf these should be for
you.
There are 2 stages to getting these. First you need an ear impression made. This
you will have to arrange yourself but the webs site makes some suggestions. The
audiologist mixes some putty like goo very similar to that used by dentists for
a dental impression and gently puts in into the ears. This sets in moments and
the resulting impression is ready to be sent to Surfplugs.
Then, Surfplugs use the impression to make the mould for your custom plugs.
(They keep the moulds for about 3 years in case you need a replacement set).
These can be in a variety of colours and have a range of graphics or even have
your own added, but I opted for a stunningly original white. The finished plugs
came back promptly in the post in a small zip-up bag and instructions.
The first challenge was getting them into my ears, but cracked it when as a last
resort I read the instructions. And so into Aggie on a cold and windy day in
May.
The plugs kept my ears warm and dry, and stayed in. Job done! And you can be
sure you will catch more waves as you will not be distracted by your mates
talking to you as you will find it a little harder to hear them! But I had no
more than my usual problems with balance and generally found the plugs very
comfortable in cold water. Because of their bulk they feel a little
uncomfortable under a tight fitting wetsuit hat, and for summer use I think I
will stick with the slightly cooler Proplugs, but although Proplugs let in more
water my friendly ENT surgeon assures me I have no sign of a problem so far
(after 41 years surfing).
Conclusion; If you have evidence of Surfer's Ear developing, surf a lot in cold
windy water, or can easily afford them, invest in the best and get some of
these. Otherwise Proplugs are a comfortable, easily available and much cheaper
alternative. Just please use something!
2nd June 2008
Competing interests; Plugs supplied for review by Rob Shaddick of Surfplugs.
Last updated
21 September 2011
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