Training Essentials: Why Ear Plugs for Swimming Belong in Every Gear Bag
Goggles, suits, and caps are usually the first things swimmers think of when preparing for training and swim meets. But there’s one item that often gets overlooked is ear plugs for swimming. Although ear plugs are small and inexpensive, they are very important for swimmers’ comfort, health and performance. These accessories are useful for keeping water out and helping swimmers stay focused, and they can really help with regular, high-volume workouts.
At Elsmore Swim Shop, we assist swimmers of all abilities, from those just starting out to those competing at the national level, and we often notice that the right accessories help them improve their training and health. If you are putting together or updating your swim bag, here’s why ear plugs are a good addition.
Benefits to Health: Prevention of Swimmer’s Ear and Irritation
Swimmers often use ear plugs to avoid swimmer’s ear which is an infection that results from water being trapped in the ear. Swimming in pools with chlorine can dry the skin inside the ear, which increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. After swimmer’s ear occurs, you may have to stay out of the pool for days or weeks to allow it to heal.
Using ear plugs for swimming helps protect against these conditions by keeping water from entering and lingering in the ear canal. For swimmers who keep getting infections, this accessory is something they can’t do without.
In addition to protecting against infection, ear plugs help reduce irritation caused by chlorinated water, mainly for swimmers with sensitive skin or those who swim a lot. Athletes may use earplugs to prevent dizziness or imbalance due to water in their ears, which could disrupt their training.
How Ear Plugs Support Concentration and Regularity
Ear plugs are mainly used for health, but they can also help swimmers concentrate on their performance. Water entering the ears during push-offs, turns, or backstroke can be annoying. For a few athletes, the distraction can make it hard to focus and plan their race.
Using ear plugs for swimming creates a more consistent training environment by minimizing unwanted sensory input. It helps a lot during long workouts or intense intervals, as being attentive can improve your swim technique and speed. Plenty of swimmers say that using earplugs helps them concentrate, especially when the pool is noisy or echoes a lot.
Ear plugs might need some time to get used to, but they are useful for cutting out distractions and helping you focus during training.
Ensuring the Ear Plugs Fit and Are Comfortable
We offer various types of swim ear plugs at Elsmore Swim Shop since fit and comfort can be different for each person. A good ear plug should be able to seal water out without putting pressure on your ears. A plug that feels too tight or comes out during laps is not helping and may just end up in your gear bag unused.
Swimmers usually pick between pre-molded silicone plugs and moldable silicone putty plugs. Because they are designed to fit the average ear, pre-molded options are commonly used by athletes since they stay securely in place. Moldable plugs are softer and are best for kids or people with sensitive ears because they sit on the outer ear instead of going into the canal.
Swimmers who practice regularly may want to use both types and see which one fits them better. Having an extra pair in your bag is smart, in case you misplace the first one before a swim meet or during practice.
This is a Necessity for Young Swimmers and Their Parents
Handling all the gear can be a big challenge for swim parents with kids who are just starting on year-round teams. However, ear plugs are a simple and very useful item to keep in your swimmer’s bag. They make it less likely for your child to have earaches or uncomfortable treatments from water exposure, and they may prevent you from missing training due to infections.
If your child keeps having itchy ears, pain or trouble with pressure after swimming, using ear plugs might help. Whether your child is just learning to swim or is competing in a club, we can help you find the right gear at Elsmore Swim Shop.
Some parents prefer using ear plugs together with swim caps that are meant to keep them in place. Although caps aren’t completely waterproof, they can hold the ear plugs in place, especially during diving or turning in the water.
Looking After Your Swimming Ear Plugs
If you want your swimming ear plugs to last, you should look after them. After every practice, wash your earplugs with clean water, let them dry and then store them in a case. Don’t just throw your gloves in your bag, as they might pick up bacteria or dirt.
Even the best plugs will need to be changed after a certain period. If you see that your shoes are not fitting as well or the material is starting to wear, it’s best to buy a new pair. Cleaning and drying your earplugs regularly helps them last longer and keeps bacteria out of your ear.
At Elsmore, you can get swim-specific cases and replacements to keep your gear clean and in good condition.
The Ways Elsmore Swim Shop Helps Swimmers of All Abilities
Elsmore aims to supply gear that is appropriate for athletes, teams, and families. From tech suits and practice gear to essentials like ear plugs for swimming, we carry accessories designed for performance and longevity. Our retail staff is aware of what swimmers need and can point you to products that match your training, aims and comfort.
We have custom programs for teams that make it easy for each swimmer to get the right gear, including ear plugs, from the start of practice to the championship event.
Don’t forget to include Ear Plugs in Your Gear Bag Checklist
No matter if you are new to swimming or have been swimming for years, always remember to use ear protection. Ear plugs for swimming are a simple addition that delivers consistent results: fewer ear infections, improved comfort, and a more focused training experience.
Every swimmer should have them in their gear bag, not as an extra, but as a main item. If you are not sure which is the best type for you or your swimmer, visit Elsmore Swim Shop either online or in-store.