Yeah, yeah, yeah those bright pink (or even yellow) things that you need to squish up and mold to shove into your ears. We’ve seen people taking them out when they get off their bikes and take off their helmets. So uncool, right? Well, maybe not, those long rides we take can tend to wear on us mentally when the sounds of the wind and bike resonate in our heads well after we’ve stopped riding. I admit, I don’t always wear them, in fact on short jaunts, I don’t. However, since riding the track and seeing every rider out there wearing them, it made me rethink my logic in it all. Racers wear them so they can only hear their engines and not all the extra noise out there, in a sense creating their own little world where they can just concentrate on their task at hand. Long distance riders wear them because it keeps them from that buzzing that occurs well after the ride and to keep from feeling fatigued. Let’s face it noise, constant noise wears you down and causes you to feel tired and grumpy.
The noise of the wind buzzing through your helmet is lending to long-term hearing damage and by the time you notice, it is too late. Foam earplugs are cheap and readily available, every drugstore, home improvement store and most convenience stores keep them in stock. If you choose the more expensive option, you can have them custom fitted and made specifically for you. It does come with a price tag though, but depending on the type of riding you do this may be worth it. That is of course for you to decide, start with the foam ones and should you want to get custom ones, there are plenty of companies that offer that service. Come one ladies, it isn’t at all sexy to get off your bike and start shouting because you can’t hear, don’t you agree? Ride on Vixens and enjoy this incredible weather, I hope to bump into a few of you out there soon!
Good advice Carol. Use any tool that will help keep your mind sharp and always on top of things, especially on a long ride.
Hi Carol, I laughed when I started reading this because I never think of the *coolness* factor when I’m on my bike, I’m just out there doin’ my own thing minding my own business, and maybe because this is my first street bike but safety rules with me. And after reading this piece I realized that I also rarely notice the *coolness* factor in other riders but I often notice safety factors that others have in place.
I started wearing the OTC squishy foam earplugs just because that’s what I had in my firearm bag but at the Seattle International Motorcycle Show last year my husband gifted me a pair of custom earplugs from Keith Baker at his W.K. Baker Co. Ear Defenders booth. Pretty sure they were less than $60 at the show. I tell you they’re one of the best investments I’ve made and are used for many other situations besides riding (mowing, working in coffee shops, shooting, using power tools and tractors, etc.). They’re supposed to last a good 10 years. I’ve referred them to a lot of people.
I hope Keith has a booth at the 2014 SIMS because I’m going to get a *spare pair* to keep in my bike bag.
And for the record, IMHO Safety is Sexy.
So true!! It also helps minimize the inputs that your mind is processing, which allows you to concentrate on your riding. Limiting the sound and wind inputs tells your brain you’re not going as fast which translates to faster lap times. Not a bad way to pick up a second or two on the track!! …Especially for fifty cents! 🙂
I have used ear plugs for many, many years now. I ride long distances and discovered soon after trying my first OSHA foam pair that they work wonders for my end-of-day fatigue and prevent the ringing in my ears (which is actually a sign of hearing damage.) I have small ear canals and always had trouble finding foam ones that would fit in my ears. I used Hearos (because they squish up smaller) until I purchased a set of customs which I have had for probably 6 or 7 years. It used to take me a bit of fussing to get my foam plugs in, but the customs go in very quickly & easily and work better. They are also a bit more comfortable in my helmet for long days in the saddle. If you get a pair of customs make sure the maker knows you will be using a tight-fitting helmet so they minimize the amount of outer material. If you don’t they could cause pressure point pain after awhile.
I remember when I first started wearing earplugs, it felt strange. But within a couple of days on the road, I was used to them and I rarely ride without them.
Beware that in WA state it is illegal to listen to music in both ears while driving. I’m not positive, but I think there is also something against wearing earplugs in both ears while driving. If a cop ever questioned me or sited me, I’d still rather save my hearing than worry about getting a ticket. Some people pipe music to their earplugs (custom plugs with speakers are available), but I prefer not to. I feel it detracts from the concentration needed while riding and disturbs my zen in the process. I sing my own songs and think my own thoughts when riding.