By MARK Heid

have been riding motorcycles for years, and occasionally a product comes along that makes you wonder why it took you so long to find it. Like many riders, I rode with inexpensive foam earplugs for years, only to discover there is a much better option.

A personalized custom-fit ear mold is far superior to typical disposable foam earplugs. Custommolded earplugs are one-of-a-kind creations, and each set is unique to the person wearing them. They are available in thousands of colors, from skin-toned to wild and colorful, with glossy or matte finishes.

I had no idea how effective and comfortable custom-fitted earplugs could be. We are often on the road for 12 hours or more riding motorcycles, and Tammy and I have found numerous benefits in using personalized, custom-fit hearing protection.

First and foremost, they are excellent at minimizing wind, engine, and road noise. This means that after a long day of riding, your ears are not ringing, you are better rested, and you can have a normal conversation. We have found that they are also very effective for concerts and races, or for getting some sleep at motorcycle rallies.

Second, they are incredibly comfortable. They are custom-made for the exact shape and profile of your inner ear, so there are no pressure points or sore ears after hours of use.

Third, the outer profile of the earmold is positioned within the user’ s

outer ear. This means they can be comfortably worn with any helmet and will not interfere with helmet pads.

For those of you who listen to music or use communication devices while riding, it is possible to have custom earmolds fitted to earbuds or other communication devices. You often see musicians wearing these rather than using stage monitors.

And finally, the durable silicone material has lasted for years with no signs of deterioration or wear. They fit as well and are as effective today as when we first purchased them.

A quick online search shows that custom ear molds cost between $ 100 and $ 250. This is significantly more expensive than disposable foam earplugs, but the personalized fit, durable material, and excellent sound suppression make them a quality investment for comfortable, long-term hearing protection. When you think about it, the purchase price is less than what you would pay for good riding boots, pants, jacket, helmet, or other riding gear, and the benefits are significant.

I have seen vendors set up at motorcycle rallies making custom-fit ear molds, but we opted to go with the services of two major hearing aid

companies. While it is possible to make a mold yourself in the comfort of your own home, we went to the office for a fitting with a professionally certified audiologist. The mold was sent away and returned as a set of finished earplugs a couple of weeks later. The fit was perfect, and we have never regretted the investment. CMA

Mark and Tammy Heid oversee the Rocky Mountain Region as National Evangelist.

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