How to Compare Ear Protection

Wearing the proper ear protection helps protect your hearing during exposure to loud noises. Any type of loud noise you encounter, whether it's on the job or while hunting, can damage your eardrum and inhibit your ability to hear. To make sure you have the best ear protection possible, compare ear protection features and see if you can try out an item before you make the purchase.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare prices for ear protection. As of 2010, you can expect to pay $100 for a quality basic unit. If you want advanced protection, expect to pay at least $10,000.

• 2

  Determine the NRR, or Noise Reduction Rating, for each ear protection unit. Measured in decibels, a higher number means the level of noise is louder. Typical ear protection features offer hearing protection for NRR ranging from 19dB (decibels) to 31 dB. Indoor shooting, for example, requires ear protection for 24dB to 31dB. Compare each ear protection unit to make sure it offers the NRR you require.

• 3

  Shop for ear protection with a comfortable cup style. The size and style of the cup is what helps determine the level of ear protection you have. Full cups have more room to insulate surrounding noises, so they offer maximum protection. If you prefer a smaller cup style, try on chop cups or beveled cups. They don't provide the same level of protection as full cup units but they are more comfortable to wear. Compare the comfort you desire with the cup size you need. Make sure you try the unit on before you buy it so you know it's comfortable.

• 4

  Ensure a comfortable fit when you compare the headband on each ear protection unit. The headband material you purchase has a great impact on how comfortable the ear protection unit is when it sits on your head. Choosing molded cushioned plastic is more comfortable than a wire band but it also provides more bulk that you may prefer not to have. You should also look at the way the headband fits. An "over the head" headband run from ear to ear and sits on top of your head. A "neck band" that wraps around the back of your head and neck offers greater flexibility because it allows you to wear a hat while you wear your ear protection.

• 5

  Improve the quality of your ear protection with electronics. Two methods of technology allow your ear protection to reduce harmful noises even more. Peak clipping detects unsafe sounds and shuts itself down to clip the sound. Compression technology allows the user to always hear his surroundings but it takes any unsafe noise and reduces it to a safe level. If you are hunting or in any other situation where you need to hear your surroundings, compression may be a better option. However, peak clipping is more affordable. Compare the benefits of both to see which option best suits you.

• 6

  Enjoy top of the line protection when you buy inside-the-ear protection units. They are comfortable and convenient because they fit in your ear like a hearing aid. Inside-the-ear protection units incorporate compression technology. Weigh the advantages of inside-the-ear protection units with the cost to see if this is a good buy.

• 7

  Buy ear protection that you will actually wear, because it only works if you wear it. Try each unit on and make sure it fits comfortably as you compare ear protection.