I’d heard of Swimmers Ear, Surfers Ear, whatever ear…some problem with too much cold water in your ears. It never happened to me windsurfing in winter…maybe a few drops would get beneath my hood but it never seemed like a problem. Then two weeks ago I got rolled mightily by some waves during a SUP session, and the 41 degree water was a real kick in the…ear? I’d get back on my board with my ear in some pain and a vague feeling of nausea. After about fifteen seconds above water the badness would pass but I resolved to try some plugs for my next session.
So I wore a pair of wax disposable earplugs (the kind for sleeping) while SUPing a few days ago. And while once again I got rolled in some very cold impact zone water, my ears were fine. Yes they slightly reduced my ability to hear, but not so much that I'd consider not wearing them for cold water wavesailing or surfing (when the underwater experience is most intense.) Also it seemed that the plugs helped keep the rest of my head a tiny bit warmer (that was probably just in my head...like the plugs) but hey I’ll take imagined warmth along with the real.
Oh yeah, plugs are good. I had some nasty ear infections when I was a grom. Water sloshing around inside and no matter what you do, it won't come out.
Posted by: Joe Rouse | January 27, 2010 at 01:07 PM
Michael,
What about balance issues? I seem to have balance problems caused by just wearing a neo hood. Seems like earplugs would make that worse?
Posted by: Brian S | January 27, 2010 at 04:59 PM
Brian, I wear a hood at least half the year and have never noticed it affecting my balance. And I didn't notice any effect with the earplugs either. If I have any effects in the future I'll mention it though!
Posted by: Michael | January 27, 2010 at 07:19 PM
Hey Michael- If you want the real deal, try out Doc's Pro Plugs, generally about $8 or $9. They are sized so it's best to try them on. One of your local surf shops may carry them.
I like the vented ones, without the safety line.
Posted by: Andy | February 03, 2010 at 04:12 PM
Thanks Andy...I'll keep a lookout for them.
Posted by: Michael | February 04, 2010 at 08:56 AM
Bill B. wears Docs all the time. once we were down in Hatteras in June, it was @ 95 degrees & Bill lost the plugs so he had to wear a HOOD.Well later that day we went into shop just looking around when we overheard this guy saying to another "hey did u see that kook out there today wearing a hood ?" yes it was very hot & very funny but it was a good day & we shralped !
Posted by: scott k. | February 04, 2010 at 09:14 AM