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SurfEars 4.0

The original vented earplug for kayakers
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The New SurfEars 4.0: Kayak Ear Plugs for Uncompromised Protection, Hearing and Awareness

Kayaking is more than just navigating rapids – it’s about being in sync with the river. To stay connected and protect your ears, a good pair of kayak ear plugs is essential. SurfEars keeps water out while allowing sound in, preventing ear infections and wind-related ear issues without compromising your hearing.

At the core of SurfEars is a carefully engineered membrane system that allows sound and pressure to move naturally while sealing out water, so you stay aware and comfortable throughout long sessions on the water.

SurfEars 4.0 builds on this with enhanced durability and a new wingless option, offering added comfort under helmets or for smaller ears. Crafted partly from recycled ocean plastics and repurposed silicone, it’s designed to reduce environmental impact while delivering top performance in challenging conditions. Protect your ears and the planet, all while staying fully aware on the water.

Kayaking demands focus, skill, and connection to the water’s power. In this ever-changing environment, protecting your ears is crucial. SurfEars was created specifically to meet that need, allowing you to enjoy the river safely while staying aware of your surroundings.

Our founder, Christian Dittrich, a cold-water surfer and former competitive swimmer, has faced lifelong ear problems from time spent in the water. By the age of 30, Christian developed a serious case of surfer’s ear—a condition caused by repeated exposure to cold water and wind. After suffering from ear infections on a surf trip to Morocco, Christian knew he needed a better solution. Determined to find one, he and a team of engineers created SurfEars—a balance of ear protection that still lets you hear the world around you.

In whitewater kayaking, the cold, fast-moving water, combined with wind exposure, can lead to similar ear problems. Like Christian, many kayakers face these risks, and wearing kayak ear plugs isn’t just about comfort—it’s about preventing long-term damage and staying on the water safely.

With SurfEars, you keep water out while staying connected to your surroundings, ensuring a safe, immersive paddling experience without compromising your ability to hear the river around you.

“I actually really do love them – they keep the water out, and I can still hear, which is huge when you boat.”


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Kayaker with kayak ear plugs
kayak ear plugs in action

“If I could I would give this advice to my younger self:
Start wearing SurfEars!”

– Adrian Mattern, professional white water kayaker.

New surfing ear plug - SurfEars 4.0

SurfEars 4.0 for Kayakers

No leaks, even when you roll.
Hear your crew, stay aware.
Secure, comfortable fit that stays put.
Durable and eco-friendly design.

As Featured In

SurfEars featured In stab
SurfEars featured In Surf Bunker
SurfEars featured In Inertia
SurfEars featured In The Wave Shack
SurfEars featured In Beach Grit
SurfEars featured In Adventure Sports Network
SurfEars featured In Ksurf
SurfEars featured In The Surf Continuum

SurfEars x Ty Williams

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Take Good Care Of Your Ears,
You Only Get One Pair.

Catch waves, not ear infections. More time in the water, fewer visits to the doctor.

Surfer’s Ear: Kayakers Beware!

Surfer’s ear is a condition where extra bone growth, known as exostosis, forms in the ear canal due to exposure to cold water and wind. Symptoms include water stuck in the ear, recurring ear infections and eventually loss of hearing.

Recent studies show that as many as 75.7% of surfers have some degree of surfer’s ear. But it’s not only surfers who get these issues, anyone exposing their ears to cold water and wind runs the risk, including kayakers.

The good news is that wearing ear plugs, such as SurfEars, can help prevent it. SurfEars offer a unique design that allows sound to come through but not water, keeping your ear canals warm and dry while ensuring maximum comfort and security.

Read more about Surfer’s ear

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