Let’s face it—earplugs aren’t flashy, but they’re vital. Anyone who’s dealt with swimmer’s ear knows that a tiny piece of silicone can make or break your season. Whether you’re training doubles, recovering from an ear infection, or just trying to keep your equilibrium on point, earplugs are an underrated necessity in the gear bag.
Like nose clips, earplugs live in that “impulse buy” corner of your local swim shop. But for swimmers who actually wear them every day, fit and comfort matter—a lot. The best plugs strike a balance between sealing out water and not feeling like they’re trying to pierce your brain. Bonus points for staying in during starts and turns.
And once again, Speedo owns the top tier. The brand continues to dominate the accessories game, blending reliable function with race-ready comfort. But this isn’t a one-brand category—FINIS, Arena, Nike, and Sporti are all in the mix with earplugs that suit a range of preferences and price points.
We reviewed each plug across a range of swimmers—from elite-level athletes to age-groupers working their way through the club swimming system. Below please see how they stack up.
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🥇 1. SPEEDO Ergo Ear Plugs – Approx Price $6
Why We Love It:
- Asymmetrical design fits naturally in the ear canal
- Soft and secure seal with no discomfort
- Holds during starts, turns, and long workouts
The Verdict: These are the gold standard. Ergonomic, durable, and nearly invisible once they’re in. They’re the top choice for anyone who wears earplugs every day.
🥈 2. SPEEDO Silicone Ear Plugs – Approx Price $6
Why We Love It:
- Moldable for a personalized fit
- Works for swimmers of all ages and ear shapes
- Resealable storage case included
The Verdict: Old-school but effective. If you like soft silicone that molds over the ear canal instead of going in it, these are the most comfortable out there.
🥉 3. ARENA Earplug – Approx Price $12
Why We Love It:
- Dual-material design for comfort and seal
- Tapered stem fits securely without pressure
- High-end feel with elite-level durability
The Verdict: Expensive but worth it. Best for swimmers who demand both performance and comfort during intense training blocks.
4. FINIS Ear Plugs – Approx Price $4.50
Why We Love It:
- Simple, reliable design
- Works well for repetitive use
- Comfortable for medium to large ear canals
The Verdict: A strong option at a fair price. Not as form-fitting as Speedo’s ergos, but they get the job done for most swimmers.
5. SPORTI Ergo Ear Plug with Case – Approx Price $2.25
Why We Love It:
- Surprisingly good fit and durability at this price
- Comes with a compact case for storage
- Similar in shape to higher-end plugs
The Verdict: Best bang for your buck. Great for backups or team bulk buys, especially if you’re outfitting a whole age group roster.
6. NIKE Ear Plugs – Approx Price $5
Why We Love It:
- Modern design with a soft rubber texture
- Holds up well in sprints and underwaters
- Good for swimmers who want a firm fit
The Verdict: A solid mid-tier choice from Nike, though a bit stiffer than some might like.
7. SPORTI Silicone Ear Plugs – Approx Price $2
Why We Love It:
- Classic moldable design
- Very soft, good for sensitive ears
- Incredibly affordable
The Verdict: No-frills, but effective. Great for new swimmers, juniors, or anyone just needing simple water protection.
8. Silicone Molded Ear Plugs – Approx Price $6.75
Why We Love It:
- Pre-molded for an anatomical shape
- Sits securely without much pressure
The Verdict: Durable and high-quality, but the fit can be hit or miss depending on ear size.
9. SPORTI Soft Silicone Molded Ear Plugs (Adult) – Approx Price $2.50
Why We Love It:
- Feels soft but holds shape in the water
- Better for adults with slightly larger ears
The Verdict: Slightly stiffer than moldable plugs, but still comfortable for most training sessions.
10. SPORTI Soft Silicone Molded Ear Plugs (Jr.) – Approx Price $1.90
Why We Love It:
- Smaller size for younger swimmers
- Good water seal and easy to insert
The Verdict: The go-to for youth programs. Budget-friendly, swimmer-approved.
11. SPORTI Ear Plugs with Hooks – Approx Price $1.90
Why We Love It:
- Hooks behind the ear to stay extra secure
- Old-school design not seen much anymore
The Verdict: Niche option. Better for very active kids or special cases, but not as comfortable as the top-tier plugs.
🛒 ORDER YOUR EARPLUGS HERE
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