I spend a lot of time in the water, so I know how much of a difference the best swimming earplugs can make. I’ve been swimming competitively since I was 10, and took up triathlons in 2016 to get fit after having my son. What started as a way to get back into exercise soon became a regular part of my life. These days, I split my time between pool sessions and the occasional open-water swim, getting in the water about twice a week.
Over the years, I’ve also had my fair share of swimmer’s ear, so I know how uncomfortable it can be. Also known as otitis externa, it occurs when water becomes trapped in the outer ear canal, creating the warm, damp conditions that enable bacteria to thrive. It can cause anything from itching and swelling to surprisingly intense pain, which is why I now consider a good pair of earplugs an essential part of my swim kit.
