Are you unsure about which earplugs to use for swimming? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. As a long-time swimmer who has tried every type of swimming earplug imaginable, I know what works and what doesn’t. Earplugs are crucial for keeping water out of your ears and preventing painful earaches, and I’ve learned from experience which earplugs are the best for the job.
From custom-fitted earplugs to ear drops for swimmer’s ear, I’ve tried them all. But through it all, one pair of earplugs has remained the most reliable and effective. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about earplugs for swimming and recommend the absolute best ones on the market. So, whether you’re a competitive swimmer or just enjoy a leisurely swim, you’ll be able to choose the perfect earplugs to keep your ears dry and comfortable.
JBL Hydro Seal

Looking for a reliable earplug to keep water out of your ears while swimming? The JBL Hydro Seal earplugs are a great option that many swimmers prefer over standard earplugs that don’t always work as advertised. Made from hypoallergenic polymer, these earplugs are designed to fit snugly in your ears, reducing the chances of getting an ear infection. The Hydro Seal also ensures that water won’t seep through while you swim, and you can still hear conversations around you clearly. With a bright pink color, the earplug locks into the inner ear to prevent the temporary loss of equilibrium. Measuring 4 x 4 x 1 inches and weighing 0.3 ounces, these earplugs are a convenient choice for any swimmer.
TYR Kids Soft Silicone Ear Plugs

Protect your child’s ears from water during swimming with these silicone earplugs that form a secure and tight seal. These earplugs are available in a pack of six pairs and come in three attractive colors. Their soft silicone construction allows for a customized fit that fits children of all sizes, so you don’t need to buy different sizes. Plus, they come with a handy carrying case for easy storage and transport.
Pros:
- Reusable
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Comes with a carrying case
Cons:
- Might not be soft enough for some users
- Might fall out often
It’s important to note that earplugs aren’t necessary in bathtubs or showers as there is no need to protect the ear from water pressure.
Speedo Unisex Swimming Training Ergo Ear Plugs

These earplugs from Speedo are named after their ergonomic design that aims to provide a secure and comfortable fit. They are made from soft TPR material and feature a long stem that helps prevent movement. The plug design is seamless and fits the outer part of the ear perfectly, minimizing any leakage. Installing and removing them is easy, according to Speedo. Additionally, the earplugs come with a storage box to keep them safe between swims and prevent them from getting lost.
Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs

Our top pick for earplugs for swimming is the Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs, which are widely available at most pools and highly effective at keeping your ears dry. Made from soft silicone putty, these earplugs create a tight seal around the ear while still being comfortable to wear. They work well with swim caps and are unlikely to fall out during use.
These earplugs are suitable for both adults and children, regardless of ear size. Mack’s also offers a specific set for kids that works just as well. It is important to note that these earplugs can get dirty over time, so rinsing them off after each use and drying them will help extend their lifespan.
Mack’s is a reputable brand specializing in earplugs, making them a trusted choice for swimmers. They offer a wide variety of earplugs, ranging from foam earplugs for noise reduction to earplugs designed to help improve sleep quality. They are the number one selling and doctor-recommended earplug brand, ensuring that you are in good hands.
Pricing for the Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs is very reasonable for the level of quality they provide. You can purchase a set of two if you want to try them out first or a value pack with six pairs. We recommend that parents use these earplugs for their children at swim meets as well.
Bollsen watersafe+ earplugs

Bollsen’s watersafe+ earplugs tick all the right boxes. Great fit? Tick. No leaking? Check. Comfortable? Definitely. Noise insulation too? Yes. We could leave it there, but we’ll elaborate for those who like a few extra details.
These are made from medical silicone, with a tiered design that – unlike some of the others on the market – is more like a cone than an arrow. This means they fill the ear canal nicely, preventing any water from entering whether you are in rough seas or the pool. It also means that bespoke bud size isn’t as important as they naturally adapt to the size of the canal. They have special sound filter technology, which we found effectively limited loud noises while enabling us to hear conversations clearly to ensure we stayed safe (and could chat with friends without removing them).
Bollsen says they are reusable 100 times. Over the last 12 months we’ve got close to this landmark and can confirm we still haven’t had any issues with them.The brand also offers significant discounts if you buy more than one pair (two pairs are £39.95, while three are £49.95) and you get a metal case that can attach to your keys so you won’t ever lose them. It’s a no-brainer.
How do I choose the best earplugs for swimming?
If you’re searching for the perfect waterproof earplugs for your needs, here are some essential things to consider: Custom Fit: Your ear shape and depth are unique, so seek out earplugs that can be molded to fit perfectly. Silicone putty is the best option for personalized earplugs. Material: Most earplugs designed for swimming are non-toxic and moisture-resistant. Budget: Compared to other swimming gear, earplugs are generally inexpensive. If you swim regularly, look for bulk pricing to save money. Storage Case: To keep your earplugs clean and dry between swims, it’s important to store them in a case.
Here are some tips for using earplugs while swimming: Before inserting the earplugs, wash your hands thoroughly. Warm the earplugs with your hands before inserting them to make them more pliable. Using a swim cap can help keep your earplugs in place, but don’t rely on it to keep water out. Store your earplugs properly in their case to keep them in good condition.
Earplugs aren’t just for swimming. They can also be used for other activities like water sports or blocking out noise when sleeping on a plane. Keep in mind that you should take the same precautions as when using them for swimming, and stop using them if you experience any discomfort.
When purchasing earplugs for swimming, consider checking pharmacies or online retailers like Amazon or Swim Outlet for the best deals. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs are an excellent option for swimmers.
In conclusion, earplugs are a helpful tool for keeping water out of your ears and reducing noise while swimming. Make sure to choose earplugs that fit well, are made of high-quality materials, and come with a storage case for maximum protection.
FAQs
Is it safe to wear earplugs when sleeping?
It is generally safe to wear earplugs when sleeping, although the research into the risks of doing so is limited. A person may experience a buildup of earwax or a higher risk of ear infections if they use earplugs regularly. That said, some researchTrusted Source into sleep quality in intensive care units suggests that using earplugs and eye masks while sleeping may lead to fewer sleep interruptions.
Can earplugs damage the ears?
There is no current research suggesting earplugs can damage a person’s ears. However, wearing earplugs regularly may lead to a buildup of earwax, called impacted earwax, because they can stop wax from exiting through the ear canal. The World Health Organization (WHO) writes that impacted wax can be a causeTrusted Source for hearing loss.
Learn more about earwax buildups.
A person should not push their earplugs deep into the ear.
If a person experiences symptoms of wax buildup, an ear infection, or pain while using their earplugs, they should consider contacting a doctor for advice.
How often should earplugs be replaced?
People should follow the manufacturer’s instructions when reusing or disposing of their earplugs. Some products are only suitable for one use, while others are washable and reusable. Reusing dirty earplugs can increase a person’s risk of an ear infection.
Which earplugs block the most noise?
The earplugs that block the most noise have high NRR ratings. Currently, NRR 33 dB is the highest rating for earplugs. These earplugs may block loud noises.
A Single Number Rating (SNR) is used in Europe to describe the same rating as NRR. NRR is in use in the U.S. and Canada. However, SNR ratings tend to be 3 decibels higher than NRR ratings. A person should take this discrepancy into account when researching earplugs.