Editor’s note: The following article is not intended to be a ranking, but is only to serve as a list of possible options. As the saying goes, your mileage may vary.
Pilots, more so than the majority of the population, are at a higher risk of hearing damage because they operate in noisy environments. To protect their ears, many pilots opt to use earplugs while on the ramp and in the cockpit. Below are FLYING’s suggestions for the best earplugs for pilots.
Quicklook: Best Earplugs for Pilots
- Mack’s Original Soft Foam Earplugs: Best for everyday earplug wearers
- Alpine FlyFit Airplane Pressure Relief Earplugs: Best for frequent flyers
- Decibullz-Custom Molded Earplugs: Best for comfort seekers
- SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus filtered Earplugs: Best for pilots with over-the-ear headsets
- EarPlanes Earplugs: Best for adults and children who fly frequently
- Targeal Earplugs: Best for those looking for high NRR
6 Best Earplugs for Pilots Options
Choosing the right earplugs for you is important for comfort and functionality. Things to consider are sizes, noise reduction rating (NRR), and reusability.
Mack’s Original Soft Foam Earplugs
Mack’s Original Soft Foam Earplugs are super soft and easily insertable into the ear.
Best for: Everyday earplug wearers
Size options: One size
Noise reduction rating (NRR): 32 dB
Reusable: Yes, good for three uses
Case: No
Special features:
- Made in the U.S. with safe, high-performance, noise-canceling foam
- Plastic jar is safety-sealed and features a convenient flip-open top
Disadvantages:
- Only reusable for a few times
- One size may be too big for small ears.
Alpine FlyFit Airplane Pressure Relief Earplugs
The Alpine FlyFit Airplane Pressure Relief Earplugs are perfect to relieve pressure and block noise while in an airplane. The earplugs regulate pressure like a valve to increase comfort. While the earplugs reduce ambient noise, having a conversation with these earplugs is also possible.
Best For: Pilots flying frequently
Size Options: One size
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 17 dB
Reusable: Yes
Case: Yes
Special Features:
- Reusable hypoallergenic material designed to adapt to your ear canal
- 100 percent recyclable
Benefits:
- Does not contain any silicone
- Easy to clean
Disadvantages:
- Only one size
Decibullz-Custom Molded Earplugs
Sometimes the best options for earplugs are to make your own. These custom Decibullz-Custom mold earplugs rank high among pilots because of their customizability and comfort.
Best For: Comfort seekers
Size Options: Custom to fit your ear. Small, medium, and large flange tips are included.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 31 dB
Reusable: Yes
Case: Yes
Special Features:
- Manufactured in the U.S.
- Multiple colors
Benefits:
- Completely customizable
- High NRR
- Can be remolded at any time
Disadvantages:
- Must be molded correcting with a seal to achieve noise cancellation
- Not designed to be able to have conversations while using
SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus
SureFire earplugs are designed with comfort in mind. Available in three sizes and featuring a low-profile design compatible with radio communication, SureFire EP4s may be the best earplugs for pilots overall.
Best For: Pilots using over-the-ear headsets
Size Options: Small, medium (medium fits most) and large. They cater to larger ears.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 24 dB
Reusable: Yes
Case: Yes
Special Features:
- Two levels of protection with filter caps in or out
- Low-profile design allows for a headset to be worn over the ear, perfect for use with most pilot headsets.
- Multiple colors
Benefits:
- Hypoallergenic
- Compatible radio communication systems
Disadvantages:
- Designed for large ears
- Midrange NRR
EarPlanes Earplugs
For both pilots and passengers, EarPlanes may be the best earplug to offer relief against pressure changes. The corkscrew designs allow for the ear to adjust more slowly to the change in pressure and prevent the uncomfortable popping sensations. EarPlanes are designed with both adults and children in mind.
Best For: Adults and children who fly frequently, including as passengers
Size Options: Children and adult
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 24 dB
Reusable: No
Case: Yes
Special Features:
- Tested by U.S. Navy pilots and approved by flight attendants
- Earplanes + App allows for cabin pressure tracking to know when to use earplugs
Benefits
- Hypoallergenic
- Snug fit
Disadvantages:
- Single use
Targeal Earplugs
If you are looking for a simple-to-use and comfortable earplug that has a high NRR, Targeal earplugs may be perfect for you. Made with ultra-soft foam and designed with all ear sizes in mind, Targeals provide high noise cancellation and are reusable.
Best For: Those looking for high NRR
Size Options: One size
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 33 dB
Reusable: Yes
Case: Yes
Special Features:
- Simple, easy to use design
- Made from ultra-soft foam
Benefits:
- Latex-free and PVC-free
- Suitable for small ears
Disadvantages:
- Not adaptable to all ear types
Why Do Pilots Need Hearing Protection?
Pilots need hearing protection because the sound levels within the cockpit can reach between 80 to 95 dB. Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally considered safe. Any sound at or above 85 dBA is more likely to damage your hearing over time, therefore pilots should wear hearing protection.
Silicone Earplugs vs Foam Earplugs
Depending on what the earplugs are being used for, you may have to decide between silicone or foam ear plugs. Foam earplugs provide more noise reduction than silicone ones. Silicone ones, because they block less sound, are great for users who want to be able to carry on a conversation while wearing them.
What to Consider With Premade Earplugs for Pilots
When picking a premade earplug design, decide what is most important to you: noise cancellation, comfort, or functionality.
Material
Foam earplugs provide a high level of comfort and noise cancellation, but it’s hard to carry on conversations while you wear them. Silicone earplugs offer medium noise canceling, which gives the opportunity to complete audible tasks and have a conversation. Many users say foam and silicone earplugs have the same comfort level.
Comfort
Comfort is very important when picking an ear plug, especially if they will be worn frequently. Ensuring the right fit can make a huge difference in the ability to wear earplugs for an extended period of time. For ultimate comfort, try moldable earplugs.
Reusable
By choosing reusable earplugs, you can save a little money without compromising NRR or comfort. Reusable earplugs are also great for reducing waste.
Price
Premade earplugs are generally within the same price range. Earplugs can cost between $10 to $25 depending on the number of pairs in the pack or if they are reusable.
What is a NRR?
A noise reduction rating (NRR) is a measurement used to determine the effectiveness of hearing protection devices to decrease sound exposure within a given working environment. The NRR is usually measured in decibels (dB). For more information on why hearing protection is important in the cockpit click here.
Earplugs are an essential part of any pilot’s flight bag. Choosing the right pair to fit your needs and comfort level while you fly is just the first step to healthy hearing protection. Use this guide to help compare and contrast the available earplugs for pilots, and to stay up to date on all things aviation subscribe to FLYING Magazine.
