I’ve been working in the Coal Mining & Coal Preparation Plant work environment for the last 31 + years, during this time I have used all the available hearing protection options.

For me the moulded ear plugs that are made to an individuals ear are second to none for protection & comfort. We constantly see 125+ dB on a daily basis & I have very minimal if any hearing lose, which is pretty good for a 57 year old in my industry.

Our company replaces the ear plugs on a need too basis or every 2 years. I take my old ear plugs home so I can use them, whether that is in the yard doing mowing or whipper snipping & in the garage working on car projects. The photo shows the set of ear plugs that I currently use at home.


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1574296558.jpg

GMAFB

You don't know if your ears are free from wax or blockage? WTF?

I've had "custom made earmolds with transducer" made before... and the ones I DIY look almost identical to the ones I paid $550 for...

I don't find work boots very comfortable either.
I used to hate wearing a tool bag all day in 25 years as a industrial electrician.

There is different types of the ones you call "cheapo" I suggest you try various types.
18 years Longshore now and when 40' 10 - 30 ton containers are put on a Bombcarts it is pretty loud when your 5 feet away while sucking in diesel fumes.

Almost 60 and many years (when I was younger 20's - 30's) without them
hearing loss sucks.

You could try changing careers ? Maybe a librarian ?

funny. you should try changing careers too! maybe be a life coach or motivational speaker. something that utilizes your insights and powers of "obvious"


i know all the foam plugs. we biuy them all at work. i know the ones i like best and have a huge box. but even those are uncomfy to me. i wear plugs all the time and muff when i can.