Swimmers who wear no ear protection are at risk to develop "swimmer's ear," also called external otitis, or infection of the outer ear canal. Chronic or recurring infections place a swimmer at risk of developing hearing loss, narrowing of the ear canal, and possible complications of untreated infections. Exposure to dirty or polluted water, or failure to keep the ear canals dry can contribute to ear infections.
Ear Plugs
There are many kinds of ear plugs on the market. Swimmers can use wax moldable plugs, silicone moldable plugs, or formed foam or PVC plugs to keep water out of their ears. Beeswax plugs are safe to use for swimmers of all ages and are moldable to create a perfect seal to keep out water. They are reusable and fairly inexpensive. Molded ear plugs come in different shapes and sizes and can be reused. Silicone ear plugs are formed to cover the ear opening and are usually worn in conjunction with a cap or ear band.
Ear Bands
Ear bands are neoprene bands that affix with Velcro. The band runs across the forehead at the hairline, over the ears to hold ear plugs in place, and around the back of the head at the bottom of the hairline. Ear bands come in a variety of sizes to fit babies, children and adults. Ear bands were first developed for use by children with "tubes" -- also called grommets -- to keep water out of their ear canals. Now the bands are marketed as a more practical and effective way to keep ears dry.
Swim Caps
Most swim caps are not designed to keep water out of a swimmer's ears -- they are merely to keep hair dry. However, swim caps may help keep ear plugs in place. Some caps are designed with ear flaps or pockets to provide more protection, but if you want to keep all water out of the ear canal you should use plugs with your cap. Waterproof caps come in silicone or latex and each offer their own advantages and disadvantages.
Cotton Balls
A study published in the "Journal of Laryngology and Otology" examined seven different types of waterproof ear protection for swimmers. Results showed that cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly and placed into the ear canal afforded the best protection against water. This method is comfortable and inexpensive.
