Music Fans Embrace Earplugs at Festivals as 1 in 3 UK Adults Live With Hearing Loss
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 4
Music Fans Embrace Earplugs at Festivals as 1 in 3 UK Adults Live With Hearing Loss
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 4
Summary
Fashion-led earplugs are gaining ground at gigs and festivals, with young fans saying they now wear them routinely to cut harmful noise and sometimes hear performances more clearly.
Brands including Loop, Alpine and Hears have pushed the shift by marketing earplugs as lifestyle accessories—offering sleek designs, colors and festival tie-ins aimed at younger concertgoers.
1 in 3 UK adults are affected by hearing loss, according to RNID, and audiologists say repeated exposure to loud music can permanently damage sound-sensing cells in the ear.
Audiologists say buyers should check safety compliance, single number rating and fit, because loose or low-rated earplugs may not protect properly or prevent post-gig ringing.
Radio 1 DJ Sarah Story, who has worn earplugs since age 19, said they likely saved her hearing after years in clubs, underscoring growing acceptance of ear protection on and off stage.