Best Foam Ear Plugs For Motorcycle Riding
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating and thrilling experience. However, it can also be quite noisy and potentially damaging to your hearing. The noise from the wind and the engine can cause hearing loss or tinnitus, which is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. Wearing foam ear plugs when riding can help protect your ears from these harmful noises while also enhancing your riding experience.
Why Wear Ear Plugs When Riding a Motorcycle?
When riding a motorcycle, you are exposed to a high level of noise. The wind noise alone can reach up to 115 decibels, which is well above the recommended safe limit of 85 decibels. The noise from the engine can also be quite loud, depending on the type of motorcycle you are riding.
Exposure to this level of noise can cause hearing damage over time. This can lead to hearing loss or tinnitus, which can be a permanent condition. Wearing foam ear plugs can help protect your ears from this harmful noise and prevent long-term damage.
In addition to hearing protection, wearing ear plugs can also enhance your riding experience. Foam ear plugs can reduce wind noise, which can help you hear other important sounds such as traffic, sirens, or other riders. This can help you stay safe on the road and be more aware of your surroundings.
What to Look For in Foam Ear Plugs for Motorcycle Riding
When looking for foam ear plugs for motorcycle riding, there are a few things to consider:
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): The NRR is a measure of how much noise the ear plugs can reduce. Look for ear plugs with an NRR of at least 30 decibels.
- Comfort: Ear plugs that are uncomfortable to wear can be distracting while riding. Look for ear plugs that are soft and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- Fit: Ear plugs that don't fit properly can be ineffective at reducing noise. Look for ear plugs that come in different sizes or are adjustable to fit your ears.
- Disposable or Reusable: Foam ear plugs come in both disposable and reusable options. Disposable ear plugs are convenient and hygienic, while reusable ear plugs can be more cost-effective over time.
The Best Foam Ear Plugs for Motorcycle Riding
After researching and testing various foam ear plugs, we have compiled a list of the best foam ear plugs for motorcycle riding:
1. Howard Leight MAX-1 Foam Ear Plugs
The Howard Leight MAX-1 Foam Ear Plugs have an NRR of 33 decibels, making them one of the most effective ear plugs for reducing noise. They are also soft and comfortable to wear, and come in a pack of 200 disposable ear plugs.
2. Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Ear Plugs
Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Ear Plugs have an NRR of 32 decibels, making them a great option for reducing noise while riding. They are also very soft and comfortable to wear, and come in a pack of 50 disposable ear plugs.
3. Eargasm High Fidelity Ear Plugs
Eargasm High Fidelity Ear Plugs are a reusable option that are designed to reduce noise while still allowing you to hear important sounds such as traffic and sirens. They have an NRR of 16 decibels, and come with a carrying case and cleaning brush.
4. 3M E-A-R Classic Foam Ear Plugs
The 3M E-A-R Classic Foam Ear Plugs have an NRR of 29 decibels, making them effective at reducing noise while riding. They are also soft and comfortable to wear, and come in a pack of 200 disposable ear plugs.
Conclusion
Wearing foam ear plugs when riding a motorcycle can help protect your hearing from harmful noise while also enhancing your riding experience. When choosing ear plugs, look for an NRR of at least 30 decibels, and consider factors such as comfort and fit. The four ear plugs listed above are among the best options for motorcycle riders.