custom ear plugs
Wave Plugs is based in Newquay, Cornwall,
providing custom fit ear plugs for water users.
What sets us apart is our expert knowledge and passion to prevent surfer’s ear with moulded surf ear plugs
Our ear plugs were developed in 2018 by audiologist Tom Brown after his research showed that many surfers avoided ear plugs due to poor fit, discomfort, and reduced hearing. In response, Tom set out to create custom-fit ear plugs that were comfortable and allowed users to hear naturally. Through this work, he engineered the acoustic filter and silicone ear plugs we use today. In 2019, Tom moved to New Zealand. Before leaving, he passed on his design to us so it could continue to benefit water users across the UK.
JJ is deeply passionate about ear health and, in particular, about educating water users on the importance of wearing custom-made ear plugs while enjoying the water. Alongside this passion, through her work as an Audiologist supporting ENT at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals, she has regularly seen first-hand the impact of surfer’s ear (exostosis) on many patients. Because of this experience, she understands just how serious the condition can be. At the same time, she knows it is entirely preventable. As a result, she is committed to raising awareness and encouraging early protection.
To support this, you can learn more about surfer’s ear on the official NHS page:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/exostosis/
Ultimately, her aim is to help people think more carefully about the effects of cold water and temperatures on the ear canal. By doing so, she hopes to help water users avoid painful ear infections, hearing loss, and, in some cases, surgery, simply by wearing ear plugs.
spreading the word
In addition to her clinical work, Julie is also continuously active within the community, where she focuses on spreading the word about ear health and ear protection. Over time and through these efforts, she has worked closely with RNLI members, as well as Surf Life Saving Clubs, local businesses, and the British Museum of Surfing. Furthermore, and as part of her wider outreach, she has taken part in podcasts in order to raise awareness even further. More recently, and continuing this work, she has also collaborated with the University of Newquay, where she supports their FdSc Surf Science students and, in doing so, helps to educate the next generation of water users.
custom made ear plugs prevent surfer’s ear
Moulded earplugs help prevent surfer’s ear
Help prevent surfer’s ear
If you’re thinking about getting involved, and in doing so helping to raise awareness of surfer’s ear in your community, then we’d love to hear from you. To get started, simply get in touch. From there, we can host clinics in your area, as well as provide ear health checks and offer our ear plugs.
To make this possible, we only need a small space. Specifically, this allows us to set up a laptop and our video otoscope — a small camera that lets you see inside the ear canal. As a result, you can clearly see for yourself whether you have any exostosis.
Best of all, our clinics are completely free of charge and fully hosted by us. In return, all we ask is a quick share on social media. This helps let local water users know we’re coming.
GALLERY
Unlike the name, Surfer’s Ear, the condition doesn’t discriminate, therefore, Wave Plugs is a product for all water enthusiasts. From swimmers to kite surfers, to kayakers, wakeboarders and every other sport that involves being in the water.
View our large range of earplugs in our online shop.