Hearing Protection and Young Ears
The Right Way to Protect Little Ears
Why Hearing Protection Matters
It’s no big secret that hearing protection is essential for shooters and spectators. But the bigger question is: are the products we’re using actually protecting our ears—and more importantly, the ears of our youth? With growing and developing bodies, children are especially vulnerable to long-term damage if their hearing protection isn’t effective or used properly.
We’ll explore the types of hearing protection available, how effective they really are, and what parents and instructors should know when it comes to young shooters. You might be surprised at what you learn.
The Technical Stuff
Sound is measured in units called decibels, specifically A-weighted decibels (dBA). The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the standard for acceptable noise exposure, which applies not only in industry but also on the shooting range.
Normal conversation: 60–70 dBA (safe level)
Dangerous threshold: 85 dBA and above with repeated exposure
Firearm report: 140 dBA and higher
To put this in perspective, a single unprotected shot from a .22 long rifle doubles the minimum dangerous level of noise exposure for humans. That’s why hearing protection is rated with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), which indicates how much sound the device blocks when properly used.
Common Types of Hearing Protection
Shooters have three main options:
Foam Ear Plugs (“Foamies”) – Cheap, widely available, and easy to use.
Custom Molded Ear Plugs – Affordable entry-level versions exist, but advanced models with electronics can get pricey.
Earmuffs – Often feature electronic control, Bluetooth, or adjustable sound suppression, and don’t require anything inserted into the ear canal.
Insert: Pic LSLS Hearing 1 and LSLS Hearing 2 on right (collage, #1 top left, #2 bottom right)
Each of these has strengths and weaknesses, and their effectiveness depends heavily on proper fit and use.
How Effective Are They?
Foamies are the most common, but also the most misused. In fact, experts estimate that 98% of foam earplug users don’t insert them correctly. If they’re not seated deeply enough or sized properly, they won’t expand fully, leaving gaps that sound can penetrate.
For shooting, an NRR of 28 or higher is recommended. Many foam plugs on the market are rated as low as 22—far too low to protect against firearm noise.
Custom molded ear plugs and high-quality earmuffs tend to perform more reliably. Electronic options allow safe sounds and conversation to pass through while blocking harmful noise—preventing shooters from removing protection mid-range. But keep in mind: earmuffs may interfere with long gun mounts, making them less than ideal for shotgunners.
The Impact on Young Ears and Learning
The consequences of hearing loss in adults—like depression or reduced quality of life—are well-documented. But for children, the impact can be even more severe. According to the CDC:
15% of children ages 6–19 have lost at least 16 decibels in one ear.
Students with hearing loss in one ear have a 35% chance of failing a grade.
Many children with undiagnosed hearing issues are misidentified as having behavioral or learning problems.
For youth shooters, ill-fitting hearing protection is a major risk. Standard foam earplugs often don’t fit small ear canals, leaving them ineffective. Custom molded plugs are an excellent choice, but must be resized regularly as the child grows. Earmuffs, if they fit securely, are also a solid option—though stock interference should be considered for shotguns.
Final Thoughts
For both adults and youth, hearing protection only works if:
It has the right NRR rating (28 or higher for shooting sports).
It’s properly sized and fitted to the wearer.
It’s used correctly every time.
Parents and instructors should take extra care with young shooters. Their growing ears need carefully fitted protection, and investing in proper equipment now will pay off for a lifetime of healthy hearing.
