Swimming with ear plugs

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1 "correct" answer available (10 pts) 2 "helpful" answers available (7 pts)

Rithy

5 posts since
Mar 4, 2008

Jun 29, 2008 5:31 AM

Swimming with ear plugs

Hey, anybody out there, using ear plugs for their swim? I've heard a couple positive things on them. Would love to hear your comments if you have, or you are using them. Much appreciated. Thanks a million!

Rithy

Anthony_All3

238 posts since
Aug 8, 2007

1. Jun 30, 2008 4:06 AM

in response to: Rithy

Rithy,

I use them when I get swimmers ear, or in early spring when the lake temps are in the 50's. I recomend using the wax plugs. I have not worn them in a race as of yet.

-Anthony

sarbare

1 posts since
Mar 12, 2008

2. Jul 1, 2008 1:37 PM

in response to: Rithy

Never swim without them. I have custom plugs that are quite effective in keeping the water out of the ear canal which really reduces the likelihood of dizziness when you emerge from the swim. Plus you don't spend the rest of the day hitting yourself on the side of the heard trying to get water out of your ear. Go find your local audiologist and have some made. You wont' regret it.

Rithy

5 posts since
Mar 4, 2008

3. Jul 1, 2008 4:24 PM

in response to: sarbare

Anthony & Sarbare,

Thank you both, for your feedback. It sounds like, it can only help me, right? I will get them and try it. Again, much appreciated. Good luck to you both!

Rithy

harridge

5 posts since
Jul 1, 2008

4. Jul 1, 2008 8:25 PM

in response to: Rithy

HI Rithy,

I use the generic ear plugs you can get at any sporting goods store. I used to get swimmers ear or just had issues with water being stuck for the next day. The generic plugs worked fine for me but I know other people that have said the wax plugs work better. Experiment and see what works best for you.

nostromo74

2 posts since
Dec 23, 2007

5. Jul 5, 2008 8:30 PM

in response to: Rithy

I always use Mack's silicone ear plugs for pool swimming. I just did my first 1/2 ironman with them and am glad I did. Keeping your head in the water for a long time, you're bound to get water in your ears. The ear plugs are a no-brainer to take out and make the swim much more comfortable. You can buy Mack's or any silicone ear plugs (roll them into a ball and cover your ear - don't stuff it in your ear) at most drug stores such as Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS, and Wal Mart.

reggaerasta

1 posts since
Dec 29, 2007

6. Jul 7, 2008 9:03 PM

in response to: Rithy

Before I used plugs to swim, I would get the dreaded swimmer's ear nearly every time (awful sensation---feels like a head cold). Now I use plugs every time I swim...about 95% effective for me in preventing swimmer's ear. Last year I converted to the Speedo silicone plug which are way more comfortable than the plastic ones I used for the previous 10 years. I've never used the the wax plugs...thought about it though, so I can't comment on which is better. Plus if you train with a swim cap (or on race days) you get the extra protection of pulling the cap over your ears. Good luck.

Jjez

1 posts since
Jul 8, 2008

7. Jul 8, 2008 10:08 AM

in response to: Rithy

Hey Rithy,

I began to swim w/ earplugs while training for my first tri, and now I feel like I need them to swim. I find it to be comforting to come out of the water w/out that feeling of a head full of water. Trying to get the water out is the worst!!! I recommend a soft, roll type ear plug that will seal the ear and still be comfortable. Good Luck!!!

Michele 1

1 posts since
Oct 17, 2007

8. Jul 9, 2008 3:12 PM

in response to: Rithy

I ALWAYS swim with ear plugs. I think it helps keep the **** out of your ears in lakes/rivers etc. I use the soft malliable ones and just tuck them in my ear and reinforce them with the swim cap. It works. Try them out.

Michele

mrf2218

1 posts since
Jul 9, 2008

9. Jul 9, 2008 4:53 PM

in response to: Rithy

I always use ear plugs. Forget the wax / silicone plugs - Lane 4 earplugs are BY FAR the best -- very comfortable, very good at keeping water out. The only minor issue I've had is that I need to ensure that my goggle straps go over them, otherwise they are at risk of falling out. As long as I've remembered that, I've never had a problem. Good luck!

TN Kearns

1 posts since
Jul 14, 2008

10. Jul 14, 2008 6:53 AM

in response to: Rithy

Rithy,

I agree with regga....the Speedo ear plugs are soft and have three rubber rings that keep the plug in and water out. I have been doing Tri's since 1984 and dealt with ear infections (swimmer's ear) almost every summer until I started using them in 2000. Once I discovered that solution I bought about three pairs because as I have found with other "components" like goggles, shoes, etc....once you get used to something the manufactures change styles. The only other thing I had to learn is soaking them in alcohol once a month to prevent "funk" from building. Good luck!

thebritt

4 posts since
Oct 5, 2007

11. Jul 14, 2008 10:26 PM

in response to: Rithy

Spending $100 on custom earplugs was THE best thing I have ever done. I just did Ironman with them and don't think I could have trained in that cold water without! They are a godsend, no water in the ear feeling, no dizziness, and no seasickness.
You really can't go wrong. I LOVE mine

dkryption

2 posts since
Feb 11, 2008

12. Jul 15, 2008 10:55 PM

in response to: thebritt

Which $100 ear plugs did you purchase? Care to share?

This Question is Answered

Jun 29, 2008 5:31 AM

Swimming with ear plugs

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