Why foilers are turning to ear protection for longer sessions

Long sessions in cold, windy conditions are pushing more foilers to treat ear protection as part of their kit. Wind, spray and repeated water ingress can cause discomfort, pressure changes and, in some cases, infections that cut sessions short or force time off the water. Wearing ear protection helps reduce those risks while keeping hearing intact enough for safety and communication.

Riders in climates with frequent spray and chop report that water repeatedly entering the ear canal becomes more than a nuisance, it creates irritation that builds over a single long session and exacerbates underlying sensitivity for some people. That combination of cold water, wind-driven spray and pressure changes from duck-dives or launches increases the chance of swimmer’s ear and makes a convincing case for protection, especially for anyone who already has ear problems or spends hours on the foil.

There are three practical categories of plugs most foilers use: disposable foam, reusable silicone and custom-moulded plugs. Foam plugs are inexpensive and easy to stash in a pocket, but they’re single-use, can become soggy quickly and require correct rolling and insertion to seal. Reusable silicone plugs are more durable, easier to clean and can be reshaped for a better fit; they’re a strong day-to-day option. Custom-moulded plugs offer the best comfort and seal for frequent cold-water riders, but they cost more and require impressions from a specialist.

Fit, hygiene and situational awareness matter as much as the type you choose. Insert plugs with clean hands and a dry canal if possible, check fit before heading out, rinse and fully dry reusable plugs after use, and retire foam plugs when they lose shape. Never share ear protection, avoid pushing a plug too deep, and see a clinician if pain or discharge persists. Balance protection with safety: choose a solution that lets you hear partners, coaches and approaching boats, and test new plugs in calm water before relying on them in surf or crowded lineups.

For sourcing, try local dive shops or surf retailers for silicone options and talk to an audiologist about custom moulds if you’re regularly battling ear issues. Our two cents? Treat ear protection like wax for your ears, start simple with reusable silicone, test fit on land, and upgrade to custom moulds if you keep getting bothered. Keep your ears comfortable and your sessions longer.