Hearing Protection

Transcript for Hearing Protection

Cody Herman, Day One Outdoors: Hi, I'm Cody with Hunters Connect. Choosing the right ear protection can be as easy or as complicated as you want it to be. Lots has changed over the years from the traditional foam earplugs, and I'm here to go over some of the most popular options. I'll cover the different offerings while touching on each one's noise reduction rating, which is the scale on how all ear protection is rated.

On screen:

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) indicates the level of sound that earplugs block out when used without simultaneous noise-blocking objects.

A noise reduction rating indicates the level of sound that earplugs block out when used. Loud noise above 120 decibels can cause immediate harm to your ears. For reference, a gunshot is right around 140 decibels.

Let's start with the standard earplug.

Cody picks up standard earplugs.

These come in many forms, from the disposable classic foam to reusable plastic or silicone materials. These are the most inexpensive options, but they actually carry the best noise reduction rating, also called NRR, which is right around 32 decibels.

Cody picks up a different pair of standard earplugs.

This pair right here is reusable and made from ABS plastic.

They're perfect for anyone who wants earplugs to hear normal sound while blocking out damaging loud noises at the same time—ideal for indoor and outdoor activities of all types: shooting, hunting, stadium events, and more. Downsides to this option is they're hard to keep track of and sometimes not the most comfortable.

Cody picks up the standard passive earmuff.

Moving on to the standard passive earmuff. This is another inexpensive option that comes in a low-profile design. They're compact and comfortable. This type of ear protection carries a noise reduction rating of right around 25 decibels. Most have a padded adjustable headband and padded ear cups. Great for recreational shooters, hunters, kids—anyone looking for a comfortable, affordable option. Only drawback is you can't hear your environment around you very well.

Cody picks up the electronic earmuffs.

Now, take your passive earmuff and add dual purpose technology that lets you enhance and protect your hearing at the same time. Electronic earmuffs allow you to turn your hearing up or down to enjoy clear sound while automatically shutting out damaging, loud noises. Have a normal conversation at the range without the need to yell back and forth to your range buddy.

This particular earmuff has auto-blocker technology that shuts off all sound over 85 decibels with a reaction time of 0.02 seconds. Most electronic ears come with a noise reduction rating of 25 decibels. While coming in with a higher price tag, the enhanced safety of being able to hear what's going on around you at the range or in the field is well worth it.

Cody picks up the in-ear, electronic earplugs.

Newest to the market is a combination of the standard earplug and electronic earmuffs. In-ear, electronic hearing protection gives you all the advantages of electronic noise blocking earmuffs without the bulk. These come in all shapes and sizes from the normal earbuds to neck bands and ear hooks like these. Bluetooth technology allows you to use these as studio-quality earbuds for music and have hands-free communication—even on a phone call—all while protecting your hearing.

Most of them offer different tips depending on the intended use, and each of them come with a different noise reduction rating, usually varying from 22 to 29 decibels. Like the electronic earmuffs, you can be aware of your surroundings while auto shut-off stops the harmful sounds over 85 decibels. Endless uses come in this small package. Wear these every day to the gym, the range, or your favorite hunting spot. I hope this helps in your decision-making process of what best hearing protection suits you.