FAQ’S about custom ear plugs
If we haven’t managed to answer your questions in the answers below, please get in touch.
If you’re in Cornwall or able to attend one of our pop-up clinics, the cost for your ear impressions is £25. This includes a full ear health check and video otoscopy. You can order your ear plugs at the appointment. https://waveearplugs.com/book/
Alternatively, you can purchase your ear plugs from our online store and book an appointment for impressions with one of the partner audiologists listed on our website. Please note, the audiologist will charge an additional fee for this service, usually between £30 and £40.https://waveearplugs.com/shop/
Wave Plugs are custom made ear plugs from an impression of your ear, which is then 3D scanned using the latest technology to ensure a perfect fit. Just like fingerprints, every ear is unique — which is why it’s hard to get a good fit from an ‘off-the-shelf’ ear plug.
Our custom ear plugs are very secure, and many surfers wear them without a cord. However, we can’t guarantee they’ll stay in during a heavy impact. We do offer the option of a detachable cord — some people choose to keep the cord until they feel confident enough to remove it.
The cord is particularly popular with RNLI crews and coaches, who like to wear the plugs around their neck when they’re not in the water.
Wave Plugs are super soft and comfortable. We use a clinical-grade silicone — the same material used in high-powered hearing aids designed to be worn all day.
If you experience any discomfort, please let us know straight away. If you contact us within three weeks of receiving your plugs and we can’t resolve the issue, we’ll offer you a full refund.
Tests show that the plugs only reduce sound by around 3 dB, so you can still hear clearly and hold a conversation while wearing them.
Due to the unique anatomical structure of each ear, it’s not always possible to achieve a completely watertight seal — though that is always our goal.
We take great care during both the impression and manufacturing processes to ensure the best fit possible. If you have any concerns about the seal of your custom ear plugs, please let us know within three weeks. We can apply an additional layer of lacquer to make the plug more snug, which usually resolves any issues.
Yes, we work with Greg from No Limits wetsuits, a small family business in Porthcawl, South Wales, who produce our neoprene pouches from wetsuit offcuts. Each pouch is carefully handmade and comes in a rainbow of colours depending on which neoprene has been in demand.
We 3D scan your impressions, which means you can order replacement plugs any time — without the cost or hassle of visiting an audiologist. Replacements ear plugs are also slightly cheaper. Unlike off-the-shelf plugs, you don’t need to order a pair if you only need one — we can make a single plug just for you.
Wave Plugs are built to last and can remain effective for up to 8–10 years. After that time, it’s likely your ears will have changed shape, and it will be time for new impressions. You’ll know when this is needed, as the plugs may start to feel a little loose.
The filters are also designed to be replaceable. If they become damaged or you notice the sound isn’t as clear, we recommend replacing the filters to keep your plugs performing at their best.
An impression is a cast of the ear. It involves putting a little foam stopper in the ear canal to protect your ear. Soft impression material is then gently placed in the canal and outer ear. It takes five minutes to set. It is quite safe and not uncomfortable.
Absolutely, we post outside the UK. For more information please email us hello@waveearplugs.com
Our plugs have not undergone clinical testing for diving, so we cannot officially recommend them for this purpose.
They have been worn at depths of up to ten meters, with the filter allowing equalization. However, caution is essential. If the filter becomes blocked, the ear plug will act like a solid seal, creating an air pocket between the plug and eardrum, which could potentially lead to barotrauma (a ruptured eardrum).
Yes, it is important to protect children’s as well as adults’ ears.
As children are growing it is likely they will need replacements every couple of years until they stop growing.
If your plugs don’t fit properly please notify us within three weeks. Our manufacturers will make adjustments free of charge within this time. Adjustments made after this time frame may incur and additional charge
The lead time for our plugs is approximately three to four weeks. We offer a priority service (7 working days) at a cost of £28.
No, the filter prevents the occlusion effect which can upset the vestibular system. Unlike solid plugs you shouldn’t have any problems with balance
Surfer’s Ear (exostosis) occurs when abnormal bone growths form inside the ear canal. This happens as a result of cold water and wind — typically when temperatures below 19°C repeatedly flush in and out of the ear.
The development of Surfer’s Ear varies between individuals, with no set timeframe. For some, it may develop within just a few years, and we’re increasingly seeing cases of early onset in children. Unfortunately, Surfer’s Ear often doesn’t present noticeable symptoms until advanced stages, meaning many people are unaware they have it. That’s why it’s important to have your ears checked every couple of years if you spend regular time in the water.
Yes, the best defence against surfer’s ear is keeping your ears warm and preventing cold water and wind from flushing in and out. The most effective way to do this is by wearing our custom-fitted ear plugs, designed to replicate the exact shape of your ear for the best possible fit.
Prolonged exposure to chlorinated and saline water can cause irritation of the external auditory canal, increasing susceptibility to inflammation and hypersensitivity. Our custom-fitted ear plugs provide an effective barrier, reducing the risk of bacterial ingress and subsequent infections such as otitis externa..