You Should Get Ear Plugs Before Your Next Concert

Music festival season is upon us (Rolling Loud is already behind us), and at the risk of being labeled old-heads, there’s something everyone needs to add to their essentials: ear plugs.

What are ear plugs? Why do ear plugs matter? Fine questions, let me briefly answer that for you. Ear plugs are essentially just devices to protect your ears. They have various purposes, they can help with overstimulation, help prevent water from entering your ear canals when swimming, but for our purposes, we’re trying to help you avoid tinnitus.

Ever get a ringing sensation in your ear? It’s not just a high frequency pitch test, but can be an indication of tinnitus. Usually common after you’ve been to a particularly loud concert or event, but hearing loss is a very real possibility if not kept in check. “But I’m going to a show to HEAR the music, not block it out!” Yes, valid, but what if I told you there are special made ear plugs DESIGNED for concert going? Plugs are not made only for musicians on stage, although they’re typically wearing in-ear monitors (IEMs). Let’s not get distracted, though, ear plugs designed for concert going typically have special filters that attenuate specific frequencies in order to reduce risk of ear damage, while also offering even ENHANCED music listening experiences at shows.

This isn’t just for aging concert goers, teens and young adults in particular I’d argue should take great care. Simple precaution and you’ll get to enjoy your music, live or otherwise, much longer.

You don’t have to spend much, even just some foam plugs for cheap will protect your ears, but if you’re looking for that refined listening experience, go with the specialized plugs.

Cheap, straight forward foam plugs. A pair of 50 for under $10. Will get the job done, albeit a bit aggressively.

A pair of plugs I personally use, $35. -18db attenuation, the filter works particularly well cleaning up the “tinny” sounds from crowds & drum cymbals, which help with ear fatigue. Also great for sporting events or general focus. You can upgrade to the Experience Plus for an additional $10

If you happen to be allergic to silicone, these alpine plugs will also do the trick. $30, plastic. I have found that they don’t create a seal quite as good as the Loops, but still an upgrade over foam plugs and hypoallergenic.