Which hearing protection products are the “best?” It’s a subjective question, and to determine the correct answer is a near-impossible task. We recently did the research, scouring through website after website to get a consensus opinion of which products are most preferred by people who frequently need their hearing protected. In the end, our efforts uncovered one thing: opinions are varied.
To be as objective as possible, this list includes products deemed as “top rated” on the websites we used for research, including The Gun Zone, The Saw Guy, Best Reviews Guide, Midway USA, Best Advisor, Outdoors MAG, Shooting and Safety, and Headphones Compared. Here is what we found:
Recommended as one of the top earmuffs to wear when handling firearms. They are also effective for other noisy activities, including auto racing, playing music, working construction, and performing DIY projects that require power tools. They have one of the highest Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) available at 34 and have been well received by consumers for their lightweight (9.4 ounces) and adjustable padded headband.
Earned a 2013 Brilliance Award by Optics Planet as a top consumer choice, and are still highly rated by consumers in 2019. The slimline, foldable ear cups feature built-in electronics with volume control to reduce noise and amplify low sounds. With an NRR rating of 20, they are recommended for military and tactical use, as well as for hearing protection on the job or at home.
Have a 4.7-out-of-5-star rating on on Midway USA and an NRR score of 30. Users say the quality of the product and the comfortable fit make it “the best hearing protector” in a variety of noise environments. The L3 cups have replaceable, snap-in foam ear cushions for maximum comfort.
With an impressive NRR rating of 33, these are frequently referred to as “the highest-rated disposable ear plugs in the U.S.” Made of contoured, tapered polyurethane foam, they are recommended for use when in industrial settings, working on home projects that require power tools, and participating in recreational activities where noise needs to be suppressed. These earplugs are attached to a cord, allowing them to hang around the wearer’s neck in between use. They are available in boxes of 100 pairs.
The best-selling earplugs on Amazon. Reviewers give them 4.3 stars out of 5 stars for their comfort and superior ability to reduce noise. They have a 32 NRR rating and are recommended for wearing at rock concerts, shooting ranges, and any setting where you’ll be using or near power tools.