ShieldKalm
Custom earplugs for people who suffer from noise/sound sensitivity due to conditions like misophonia, hyperacusis, adhd and autism.
ShieldKalm
Custom earplugs for noise and sound sensitivity
In a noisy world, find your calm.
ShieldKalm earplugs are designed for people who suffer from noise and sound sensitivity and struggle to find calm in triggering environments. Our specialised noise reduction filters offer varying levels of decibel protection to cater for different situations and noise/sound levels.
Made to fit in your ears with the perfect seal, you can wear them comfortably all day safe in the knowledge they won’t fall out and will always keep you protected.
Best for
Misophonia, Hyperacusis, Noise Sensitivity, ADHD, Autism
Custom fit
Requires a physical ear impression to create precise moulds of your ears. These means your Snugs will fit the unique contours of your ears for ultimate comfort. Find out more about how custom fitting works.
Easily swap out filters
The filters are removable from your Snugs, so if you wanted to use them in a different noise environment or with a different level of decibel reduction, you can. Order spare filters here.
A solution for small ears
If you're worried that even the XS earplugs and earphone tips are too big for your ears, then fear no longer. Snugs are designed and 3D printed using your physical ear impressions, so they will fit your ears and be comfortable - no matter how small they are!
Discreet or Bold Fit
Designed to sit inside your ear canals, choose a neutral colour for maximum discretion. Or if you’re looking to liven up your ear wardrobe, choose from our range of bold and special colours
Soft material
Made from a hypo-allergenic medical grade silicone which is kind to ears and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Reusable
Reduce the number of foam, disposable earplugs going to landfill and use custom-fit re-useable earplugs. They're eco-friendly, fit your ears precisely, and over time will cost you a lot less.
Chelsea
Snugs hearing protection has been life changing
I have had a lifetime of sensory struggles, just suffering though, prior to a diagnosis of Autism. Given a renewed confidence to take action of my discomfort, I sought out discreet hearing protection...I chose ear protection with removable filters so I can change filters based on my settings. The team labeled all the filters for me and I have been exploring which to use based on the environment I am/will be in, from walking down a street with vehicles driving on wet pavement, visiting a pub with music, even being in a space where multiple conversations coexist! I am finding my Snugs are helping handle the environment AND my neuro-response to reducing stimulation.
Create your unique
Noise reduction earplug filters for any situation
Social filter
The Social Filter is ideal for those who enjoy socialising with friends but need to lower the volume of their environment. The filter ensures sound is not muffled or distorted, so you can enjoy conversations as normal, just at a more comfortable level. Provides continuous noise reduction up to 20dB.
Shock filter
The Shock Filter is ideal for people who are triggered by sudden very loud noises nearby. They have an in-built mechanism which reacts to a sudden change in noise frequency to prevent the loud noise reaching your ear drums (up to 30dB reduction). This filter provides 19dB in noise reduction when 'un-triggered' so everything is a little quieter.
Block Filter
The Block Filter is a solid insert which provides maximum noise isolation for the individual. Ideal for those wanting to block out as much noise as possible, helping you to remain calm and un-stimulated by your environment. They provide up to 30db continuous reduction.
Custom Fitting
How it works
Step 1
Physical ear impressions
You'll need to visit an audiologist to get a physical impression of each ear. It's a quick and painless procedure where the audiologist will inject a foam solution inside the ear. After a few minutes this hardens to create an exact mould of your inner ear.
Step 2
Creating a 3D Model
Once we receive your ear impressions, we scan these to create your 3D ear files. These can then be used to make any and multiple products from the custom fit range, so you only need to have this part of the process done once.
Step 3
Making your Snugs
We take your 3D ear files and design them for your product of choice. These are then 3D printed and finished in the colours you selected so they’re perfectly unique to you.
FAQs
What is filter attenuation?
Attenuation in the context of hearing protection is the amount of decibel (dB) noise reduction a filter offers.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a unit of measurement used to determine the effectiveness of hearing protection devices to decrease (attenuate) sound exposure within a given working environment. Classified by their potential to reduce noise in decibels (dB), a term used to categorise the power or density of sound.
Hearing protectors must be tested and approved in the USA by the American National Standards (ANSI) and CE certified in Europe. Snugs GO Shield is rated at 26 dB NRR and is accredited to test to ANSI S3. 19-1974, ANSI S12.6-2016, ANSI S12.42-2010, EN352 parts 1-8 and AS/NZ S1270:2002 by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP).
The higher the NRR number in the USA (or SNR in Europe) associated with a hearing protector the greater the potential for noise reduction.
Why should I protect my ears from loud noises?
Exposure to loud noises can permanently damage your ears. The louder the noise, for greater lengths of time, the greater the risk of hearing damage.
1 in 8 people suffer from Tinnitus as a result of exposure to loud noise [Tinnitus Association].
Snugs custom fit earplugs provides the best acoustic seal and maximum sound blockage, thus allowing for longer, safer exposure time to loud noises. With a range of filters available, you can ensure you have ear protection best suited to your environment
How long does it take to make Snugs?
Once we receive your ear impressions, our current production time is 15 to 20 working days.
If you have had Snugs made before, we will use your ear impressions on file and process your order straight away
My Snugs don't fit properly, can I get them adjusted?
If you are not happy with the fit of your Snugs e.g. you would like a tighter fit for instance, we are able to make adjustments and remake them for you. This is included as part of the Snugs Fit Guarantee - just let us know within 30 days of receipt of your Snugs if you would like some changes to be made.
Can I change the filters in my Snugs?
Yes, you can change the filter. We stock a range of filters with different levels of decibel protection, you can order filters here.
Don't forget to add a handy filter removal tool to help you remove the filters from your Snugs
Can I return my Snugs if they don't fit?
Snugs are custom-fitted to match the unique shape and size of your ears and as such our returns policy may differ from that commonly offered with non-custom fit products.
We offer a 30-day remake policy, where we will adjust the size and remake your Snugs tips, so they fit better. In most cases, this works out great for our customers. However, if you’re still not satisfied, then we’ll be happy to offer you a refund or gift card.
I have cauliflower ear, will Snugs work for me?
Yes, we have made Snugs for a number of customers with cauliflower ear, including former Team GB Judo player Bobby Rich.
Cauliflower ear is a condition that occurs when the ear sustains a significant amount of blunt force trauma or repeated injury, typically in contact sports like wrestling, boxing, or rugby. The trauma causes bleeding between the ear's cartilage and its overlying skin, leading to a collection of blood (hematoma) or fluid in the space. Without proper treatment, the blood or fluid can harden and form scar tissue, resulting in the ear's characteristic swollen, misshapen appearance, resembling that of a cauliflower.
If you have cauliflower ear, then we will require a professional fit, using your physical ear impressions, in order to make your Snugs. This ensures the moulds will fit the exact contours of your ears for a secure fit. If you have any doubts, please contact us to discuss your needs.
Unfortunately our SnugsGo AI fit method is not suitable for people with cauliflower ear
Can I remove the lanyard from my hearing protection?
The lanyard supplied with our hearing protection products is a 'pop-off' lanyard, so is removable
Can I order Snugs for someone else?
Yes, you can order for someone else. Please select that the order is for someone else and write their name in the box. Alternatively, you can order them a gift card
What are Snugs made of?
All Snugs are 3D printed and made from hypoallergenic medical-grade silicone which will sit comfortably in your ear
How do I clean my Snugs?
If you use your Snugs in the gym or onstage a lot, there will likely be a build-up of natural oils. If this is the case, you can then wash them in hand-hot soapy water (washing up liquid works best), and allow them to dry naturally. You can also wipe over the drivers with an alcoholic wipe to remove the natural oils. Do not use anything abrasive or containing petroleum when cleaning your Snugs as this may damage the silicone.
Can I make a change to my order?
We are able to change your order details, including colour choice and product, providing your Snugs are not in manufacturing (you will receive an email when your Snugs are being made). If you would like to amend you order once your Snugs are in manufacturing, this will incur a charge.
What's included with my order?
In addition to your chosen Snugs product, you order includes:
- Ballistic Case (to safely store your Snugs)
- Comfort Balm (to apply to your Snugs for easier fitting)
- Fit Guarantee (if you are not happy with the fit of your Snugs, we will remake them within 30 days of receipt)
Can children use Snugs?
Yes, we have made custom tips for children before. You will need to arrange for them to visit an Audiologist to have their ear impressions taken - please confirm with the Audiologist that they are able to take the ear impression for under 18's.
Alternatively you can order SnugsGo earphone tips for your children. This fit method is only suitable for earphone tips for your children, all other products require a physical ear impression.
What are the benefits of Snugs versus foam earplugs?
Snugs feature a unique venturi shaped attenuated filter embedded into the plug. This enables the wearer to clearly hear conversations while reducing harmful sounds. The filter allows air to constantly flow into the ear; this ventilation minimises the sound occlusion effect and avoids irritation within the ear canal. Foam plugs on the other hand do not ventilate the ear canal and conversational sounds are acoustically muffled and un-clear.
Foam earplugs can be a breeding ground for bacteria, thanks to the combination of moisture, warmth and dirt in the ear. Re-using dirty earplugs can lead to serious ear infections, meaning that it’s good practice to throw them away after a single use. Employees should always be reminded that they are single use only, even though this is written on the packaging for liability reasons.
Some people will wash their earplugs in soapy water, however this is no guarantee of removing the bacteria and can also lead to degradation of the material. If the plugs harden, or do not return to their original shape when squeezed, then they will no longer be effective at blocking out sounds and will need to be thrown away anyway.
So, the financial cost of foam plugs can soon add up, when used correctly as single-use consumables (akin to a syringe), and that’s before considering the environmental costs of using disposable plugs.
Regular users can have all the advantages of Snugs Custom Fit Earplugs, which can pay for themselves in a matter of months and present a clear environmentally friendly option.
Snugs are made from medical-grade silicone, are hypoallergenic, non-flammable and are recyclable. Of great importance is the fact the Snugs Earplugs are re-usable for years and years. Snugs can be wiped down between uses to keep them in tip-top condition.
How sustainable are Snugs?
Snugs PPE products are made from medical grade silicone, the sustainable material used to make Snugs is derived from silica, a naturally occurring mineral. The global silica market size was valued at USD 12.8 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2021 to 2028.
In contrast, single use foam ear plugs are made from petroleum-based materials, which are non-biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Additionally, the production of foam ear plugs generates harmful emissions that contribute to climate change. The global greenhouse gas emissions from the manufacturing sector were estimated to be 14.5 billion metric tons in 2020.
Snugs Custom-Fit earplugs present a more sustainable alternative to foam ear plugs. Medical grade silicone is a renewable resource and is non-toxic and hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin. Moreover, medical grade silicone earplugs do not produce harmful emissions, and they can be reused thousands of times, reducing their environmental footprint.
In conclusion, medical grade silicone is a more sustainable material than foam ear plugs. Medical grade silicone is made from a renewable resource, it is non-toxic and hypoallergenic, and it does not produce harmful emissions.
Why are Snugs more eco-friendly than foam earplugs?
Snugs are made from medical-grade silicone, which is a more sustainable material than foam ear plugs for several reasons:
- Silicone is made from a renewable resource, silica, while foam ear plugs are made from petroleum-based materials.
- Silicone is non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- Silicone does not produce harmful emissions during manufacturing, while foam ear plugs do.
- Silicone ear plugs can be reused thousands of times, while foam ear plugs are single- use.
Furthermore, medical grade silicone earplugs can be reused thousands of times, reducing their environmental impact. Snugs Hearing Protection's use of medical grade silicone ear plugs aligns with its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness.
A Study conducted by a team of researchers at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business and was published in the Journal of Industrial Ecology in 20201. The researchers analysed the environmental impact of three types of earplugs: foam, wax and silicone, over their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal.
They found that silicone earplugs had the lowest environmental impact of the three types of earplugs, and that the use of reusable silicone earplugs could reduce waste by up to 90% compared to disposable foam or wax earplugs. This is because silicone earplugs can be washed and reused multiple times, whereas foam and wax earplugs are typically used once and then discarded.
The study also found that the production of silicone earplugs has a lower environmental impact than the production of foam or wax earplugs, and that the transportation and disposal of silicone earplugs also have a lower environmental impact.
Overall, the study suggests that the use of reusable silicone earplugs can significantly reduce waste and environmental impact, making them a more sustainable option for ear protection.
Ref #1: Study - "Life Cycle Environmental Impacts of Earplugs: A Comparative Study of Foam, Wax, and Silicone Earplugs" and the reference number is DOI: 10.1111/jiec.12998
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