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 our 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, through her work as an Audiologist supporting ENT at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals, she has seen first-hand the impact of surfer’s ear (exostosis) on many patients. As a result, she is keen to raise awareness of this debilitating yet entirely preventable condition. You can learn more about surfer’s ear on the official NHS page:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/exostosis/Â Her aim is to raise awareness and encourage people to think about the effect cold temperatures have on the ear canal and ultimately avoid nasty ear infections, hearing loss and surgery by wearing plugs.
Julie is continuously working within the community to ‘spread the word’ on ear health and ear protection. She has worked with, RNLI members, Surf Life Saving Clubs, local business and the British Museum of Surfing and taken part in podcasts to raise awareness. She has also worked with the University of Newquay and their FdSc Surf Science students.
custom made ear plugs prevent surfer’s ear
Moulded earplugs help prevent surfer’s ear
Help prevent surfer’s ear
Thinking about getting involved and helping to raise awareness of surfer’s ear in your community? If so, get in touch. We’d love to help, and can host clinics in your area, provide ear health checks, and offer our ear plugs.
To make this happen, all we need is a small space to set up a laptop and our video otoscope, a small camera that allows you to see inside the ear canal. This way, you can 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 to let the locals 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.