5 Best earplugs for concerts, festivals, and gigs to prevent hearing loss | Music | Entertainment

Look, we know it isn’t glamorous or sexy, but hearing protection is something you really need to think about.

If you’re at as many gigs, concerts and festivals as we are, then we’re willing to bet you might have noticed some hearing loss here and there.

Or perhaps you’ve developed a constant ringing in your ear – the dreaded Tinnitus – from your evenings out partying.

This is an issue even the greats deal with. We recently spoke to Rick Astley to discuss his hearing loss journey and how he’s combatting it.

Either way, it would be smart to invest in some hearing protection. And, thankfully, in 2024, some incredible brands are spearheading not just well-crafted earplugs and earmuffs that truly protect your ears, but they… look good as well.

Here’s our list of the top five best ear protection accessories for you to keep your ears safe while you’re rocking out.

Best earplugs

Loop Earplugs have come a long way in the short time they have been around.

Built with sound fidelity and crispness in mind, this incredible brand has built a reputation for not only protecting hearing and enforcing good sounds but also looking good.

Loop Experience have been made with live music in mind, and its unique circular design has become a bit of a status symbol at gigs in the process. And with many colours and styles on offer, you’ll certainly be able to find one that fits your personality.

If you need more functionality, though, we recently reviewed the Loop Switch – Loop’s latest product which allows users to _switch their sound protection from slight to extreme. Read the full review here for further details.

Loop Earplugs are available at Amazon, and directly from the Loop website.

Buy Loop Earplugs from Loop’s website.

Buy Loop Earplugs from Amazon.

Fender are best known for making guitars, amplifiers, and musical equipment, right?

So then, why wouldn’t you trust them to take care of your ears.

As one of the world’s foremost expert companies on sonic fidelity, Fender have built an incredible set of earplugs that promise to provide “approximately 20db of sound reduction” (when used correctly).

On top of that, they come complete with a guitar pick-shaped keychain case and neck cord – so you’ll never lose yours.

Here’s the link:

Buy Fender Professional Hi-Fi Earplugs here.

Amazon’s collection of ear protection is almost too extensive – but these HouChanges are a great choice for fans who really want to block out some noise at their gigs or concerts.

Designed for sleep, this pack of four silicone earplugs boast noise cancellation and comfort.

Their odd shape also creates a vacuum in your ear, boosting their stability.

Buy HouChanges Silicone Reusable Earplugs from Amazon.

If you’re on a budget, this is where you should be looking.

Foam earplugs have been around since the dawn of time (almost) and they are still around for a reason.

While this product is just £4.84, it is an enormous pack of 30 pairs of earplugs. Even if you used each pair once, that comes out to around 16p per pair. You cannot argue with that value.

On top of that, these Howard Leight Laser Lite earplugs boast an incredible 35db of sound reduction, so… you really can’t go wrong if you don’t want to invest in an expensive pair of ear defenders.

Here’s the link:

Buy foam earplugs from Amazon.

Earplugs not your style? Hate sticking things in your tiny earholes? These ProCase Ear Defenders are probably your best bet, then.

Coming in at just £15.99, not only are these earmuffs infinitely reusable, but they are probably far more comfortable than your regular old earplugs.

However, as they are so large and padded, you won’t be able to throw them in your jean pocket.

Still, with more than 28db of hearing protection and a stylish black look, these are a great option for music fans, as well.

Buy ProCase Ear Defenders from Amazon here.