Earplugs - good or bad idea?

**FJRpilot** · 08-22-2016, 21:24

Originally Posted by Gojohnnygo

I consider them essential equipment.

+1... I use a white noise machine at home because any noise will wake me instantly... Besides.. I don't want to hear the bear coming up behind me

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**gunner76** · 08-22-2016, 21:29

While I don't use them I know many folks who do. If it allows you to sleep better then go for it.

**dudeman_atl** · 08-23-2016, 06:46

I started using them after taking cub scouts to camp on an aircraft carrier on the advice of an older dad.

Now I have one pair in the ridge line organizer, one in the first aid kit (next to the via coffee pack) and one in my ditty bag.

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**B-Square** · 08-23-2016, 07:19

Sorry if this hi-jacking this thread. But is there a specific brand or type of ear plug that works best?

I've found the foam ones keep popping out and the silicone ones make my ear feel...well I think the technical term is yuck.

**jbogg** · 08-23-2016, 07:22

I use them. As others have said, dampening some of the sounds I am not used to helps me sleep in the woods.

**OneClick** · 08-23-2016, 07:52

Originally Posted by B-Square

Sorry if this hi-jacking this thread. But is there a specific brand or type of ear plug that works best?

I've found the foam ones keep popping out and the silicone ones make my ear feel...well I think the technical term is yuck.

Don't buy the type that are perfectly cylindrical. I feel the plugs shaped with a fat end (outside) work best. I bought a 100-pack for something like $6 on amazon years ago.

**Hobopelican** · 08-23-2016, 09:27

Originally Posted by B-Square

Sorry if this hi-jacking this thread. But is there a specific brand or type of ear plug that works best?

I've found the foam ones keep popping out and the silicone ones make my ear feel...well I think the technical term is yuck.

I think you just have to try them all and see what works for you. Personally, I go for the dense yellow cylinders, like these. Roll them into tiny cylinder and slip them deep in my ear, being very careful until you figure out how far is safe. After about 5 minutes, I get, maybe, 90% attenuation. Never pop out with my ears. Others hate these though. Ears vary a lot....for the cost, just try different types.

**QFT** · 08-23-2016, 12:59

Originally Posted by B-Square

Sorry if this hi-jacking this thread. But is there a specific brand or type of ear plug that works best?

I've found the foam ones keep popping out and the silicone ones make my ear feel...well I think the technical term is yuck.

I like the type shaped like this. I also like Hearos, and I think the custom molded type are okay as well. I don't like the more dense barrel-type. But like others have said, to each their own.

**dudeman_atl** · 08-23-2016, 14:53

I use the cheap bulk pack from the pharmacy shaped like a flat bell.

Roll them between first finger & thumb to compress them length wise, then pull down on your ear lobe as you insert. Wait a second or two and release the ear lobe while continuing to hold the plug in.

Reinsert if the plug slides out very much.

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**Miguel** · 08-23-2016, 16:05

Chipmunks sound like grizzlies when you first start camping alone in the woods. The more you do it the less that's the case. Until you get over your fears you probably won't feel comfortable wearing ear plugs. It's sort of a catch 22 as you want to block out the noise but you are afraid you will miss something important if you do. It's a mind game for sure. BTW...I use earplugs all the time now.
but not at first.