One of the most important pieces of swimming kit is also one of the most overlooked, and the smallest: ear plugs. They are essential to protect your ear health, and your hearing, if you are a regular swimmer. According to Duncan Collet-Fenson, an audiologist at Aston Hearing, the likelihood of ear infections is significantly increased with exposure to water. Commonly known as Swimmer's Ear, the infection is caused by bacteria that enters the ear canal when swimming. Ear infections, if left unchecked, can become very nasty and lead to complications which can be difficult to treat.
Less common, but a real risk for open water swimmers, is exostosis. Commonly known as Surfer's Ear, it is caused by the effects of longtime exposure to icy wind and chilly water. Over time, these elements can cause the ear canal to develop lumps of bony growth, which can eventually block the ear canal and lead to a significant loss of hearing. Studies show as many as 80 per cent of surfers, or those who are exposed to cold water, develop Surfer's Ear after ten years of water activity - or 3,000 hours in the water. As much as we all love our sport, it really isn't worth risking developing a hearing impairment by not wearing ear plugs. Audiologists recommend custom made plugs, but these are not cheap, and there are a whole variety of cheaper options available on the market. We've put a variety of different ear plugs to the test, including a custom made set, to see which feel the most comfortable and do the job well.