Protect Your Ears: Why Indians Need to Invest in Quality Earplugs

In recent years, India has seen a boom in live music events, from high-energy concerts and multi-genre music festivals to intimate gigs at local venues. The country’s appetite for live music is rapidly growing, bringing in global artists and producing an exciting lineup of festivals like Sunburn, NH7 Weekender, and Lollapalooza India. However, as Indians increasingly immerse themselves in these experiences, it’s essential to address an often-overlooked concern: hearing protection.

Loud music can take a toll on our hearing. While concerts and festivals are thrilling, the high-decibel levels can cause lasting ear damage, especially with prolonged exposure. This is where high-quality earplugs come in, and why now is the right time for Indians to consider investing in them. Earplugs designed for concerts and festivals filter sound without distorting the music, allowing you to enjoy the full range of sound at a safer volume.

Many people in India might associate earplugs with blocking sound, imagining foam plugs that stifle everything. But newer, high-quality earplugs are specifically designed for music. They lower the sound to safe levels while preserving clarity, which means you can still feel every beat, guitar riff, and vocal line without risking hearing loss. These earplugs are crafted with special filters that reduce the volume rather than muffling it, making the music experience both safe and enjoyable.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage. Most concerts, however, exceed this safe threshold, often reaching between 100 to 120 decibels. With more Indians attending gigs and festivals than ever before, consistent exposure at these levels can have lasting effects on hearing health. And the effects of loud music aren’t limited to hearing loss; prolonged exposure can lead to tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears that can be distressing and irreversible.

By investing in high-quality earplugs, concert-goers can not only enjoy the increasing number of music events but also protect their ears for years to come. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference, ensuring you can enjoy the thrill of live music safely.

Here are the editor’s top recommendations for earplugs worth investing in right now.

Dubs Acoustic Filters

Dubs Acoustic Filters are high-tech earplugs that lower volume levels while preserving sound clarity. Whether you’re navigating city noise, enjoying a concert, flying, or at a game, Dubs protect your hearing, allowing you to experience sound safely and for extended periods.

Loop Experience 2 Earplugs (Editor’s favorite)

Loop Experience 2 Earplugs reduce noise by 17 dB, ensuring crisp music at a safer volume. Certified for hearing protection, they feature a sleek, secure design, four customizable ear tip sizes, and a convenient carry case. Reusable and easy to clean for daily use.

Earpeace Music Pro Earplugs

Designed for live music, Earpeace’s ultra-comfortable Contour Earplug offers a near-custom fit and premium hearing protection. Featuring multi-layered acoustic Pro filters, Music Pro reduces noise and distortion while delivering clear, full-spectrum sound. Enjoy concerts with enhanced safety and fidelity like never before with Music Pro.

Ibanez IEP10 Ear Plugs

The IEP10 earplugs by Ibanez reduce noise levels comfortably, providing a snug yet gentle seal without pressure

DownBeats Reusable High-Fidelity Hearing Protection

DownBeats High Fidelity Earplugs offer moderate, even sound reduction for an enhanced concert experience, allowing speech, high notes, and music to remain crisp and clear. With a low-profile design, they fit subtly in-ear, and the Long Stem version provides a larger fit. A durable aluminum case with clip attaches easily to keys, belts, or bags—ideal for concerts, festivals, nightclubs, and other loud events.