Best Ear Plugs for Open Water Swimming: Prevent Swimmer’s Ear Without Losing Awareness

Open water swimming in winter can be thrilling, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Cold water and cool winds are part of the package, and so is the risk of swimmer’s ear. That’s why waterproof ear plugs for swimming aren’t just a nice addition, they’re a smart way to keep your ears dry and free from irritation.

The trick is finding a pair that does more than just block water. You still need to hear what's going on. Seagulls overhead, a boat nearby, a shout from the shore, all these sounds help keep you safe and aware. In this post, we’ll walk through how swimmer’s ear starts, how to choose the right plugs, and how to wear them properly so you can focus on your swim.

Why Swimmer's Ear Is More Common in Open Water

When we swim in lakes, rivers, or the sea, the water doesn't always look like it's carrying bacteria. But that doesn’t mean it’s clean. All it takes is a bit of water trapped in the ear to cause trouble. This is especially true in winter, when the cold can make the ear canal more sensitive and slower to dry.

Swimmer’s ear happens when that trapped water allows bacteria to grow. You might feel itching at first. Then pain, redness, or even a little swelling can follow. Some people notice fluid or a full feeling in their ears. Once it flares up, it’s hard to ignore and can take days to settle down.

That’s why we focus so much on prevention. Once swimmer’s ear begins, swimming becomes painful and unpleasant. Keeping water out in the first place saves a lot of hassle. Waterproof ear plugs are a simple step that make a big difference, especially when we’re swimming in natural, untreated water such as the sea, lakes and rivers.

What to Look for in the Right Swimming Ear Plugs

Not all ear plugs are the same. Some might keep water out, but leave your ears aching by the end of the swim. Others might be comfy but do nothing to stop leaks. So what should we look for?

• Fit and shape. The waterproof ear plug should fit snugly without feeling painful. A good seal keeps water out, but if it’s hard or too big, it can press against the ear canal and cause discomfort.

• Material. Soft silicone ear plugs or pliable rubber usually does a better job of moulding to the ear shape while staying put during movement.

• Waterproofing. This sounds obvious, but not all plugs for swimming actually block out water fully. Make sure they’re made for open water use.

• Awareness. Some plugs are made to block only water, not sound. This lets you stay tuned into your surroundings, which is always a plus when you’re outdoors.

A good set of waterproof ear plugs will stay in place, feel right, and let you focus on moving through the water without that annoying slosh in your ear. SwimCell’s waterproof ear plugs are made from soft silicone that creates a watertight seal in adult ears, while still allowing you to hear key sounds around you.

Staying Aware While Wearing Ear Plugs

One worry that comes up often is the feeling of being cut off. We rely on our ears more than we think, especially in open water, where things can change fast. When we stop hearing what's around us, it can feel isolating or even unsafe.

Hearing while swimming helps us notice:

• Boats or paddlers nearby.
• Instructions or warnings from coaches or lifeguards.
• Changes in weather or water that we might not see right away.

It's a good idea to test your plugs before you head into a busy or unfamiliar spot. Try them during a short swim or even at the edge of a calm lake. Can you still hear people on shore? Do sound cues still come through when you dip under and resurface? Getting used to that balance between water resistance and sound awareness makes a real difference in how comfortable and confident you feel during swims.

Fitting and Caring for Your Ear Plugs

Even the best swimming ear plugs won’t work well if they’re put in the wrong way. A proper fit means a better seal and better water protection.

1. Look for guidance on which plug goes in each ear.
2. Gently pull the top of your ear upward and outward to open the canal.
3. Insert the plug and hold it in place for a few seconds, letting it settle.

Once in, you shouldn’t feel pressure or pain. If the plug starts slipping during your swim, it might be the wrong shape or material for your ear.

After your swim, rinse your plugs with clean water and let them air dry. Don’t shove them into a bag wet; that’s a quick way to grow mould and bacteria. Storing them in a clean, dry case helps them last longer and keeps them hygienic.

Avoid using plugs that are too hard, too shallow, or ones that rely only on foam. These often don't seal fully against water and can fall out more easily, especially in choppy water.

Enjoy Every Swim With Secure Ear Protection

Cold water swimming can clear your head and lift your mood, but comfort and safety should always come first. By choosing waterproof ear plugs for swimming that fit well and still let you hear the world around you, you’re giving yourself the best chance to enjoy every swim. 

SwimCell’s swimming ear plugs have a contoured design developed specifically for open water and can be trimmed for a personalised fit. They are supplied with a durable storage case to keep them clean and handy with the rest of your swim kit. Made with bright colours it makes them easy to find and stand out if accidentally dropped in the water.

For those of us who love the thrill of wild water and cold water swimming, a little ear protection goes a long way. It keeps the fun going all season, with fewer worries and more time to enjoy being out where we feel most alive.

SwimCell waterproof ear plugs for swimming are designed for comfort and made to stay secure, even in choppy open water. You can swim with confidence knowing your ears are protected from trapped water while still being able to hear what's going on around you. We’ve created these with open water swimmers in mind, so you can enjoy every winter session comfortably. At SwimCell, we help you stay warm, dry, and safe, so if you need advice on fit or care, just get in touch.

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