Ear plugs perfected
For those following, I have tried several sets of ear plugs, in the quest for the most comfortable one, with ease of insertion, and a high amount of noise reduction. After going through several models, from different manufacturers, these Howard Leight Max 1's have emerged as my current favorites.<br /><br />For starters, they claim to be the best selling polyurethane ear plug, and are used throughout industrial applications. I figure if they are good enough for a construction site or factory floor, where workers use them day after day, that is a good start that they are more than adequate for my needs at home.<br /><br />They are smoother than other plugs, and this enhances the ease of insertion. While, at least for me, it takes a few attempts to get the ear plug fully in, these Max 1's go right into the ear canal fully on the first shot. They are also airy, and roll down easily despite their larger size. This makes them fast to put in, so the work can begin without the frequent delays I had while inserting other ear plugs.<br /><br />Once in place, it is important to hold them in place for 30 secs to let them fully expand. Once that happens, they are the most comfortable I have used, and they feel like a "mini marshmallow," exerting just enough pressure to stay in place and stop the noise, but nothing more. They are totally comfortable, whether for an overnight sleep, or working a long day while in place.<br /><br />They have a 33 NRR, which puts them at the top of any ear plug for sale that I have found. When I compare them to other ear plugs with the same high NRR, I fnd them the quietest of any ear plug that I have used. After all, this is what you use an ear plug for anyway!<br /><br />The selling point of these Max 1's is that they are a little larger than some other products. This is a selling feature to those with larger ear canals (typically males and Caucasians) that do not get an effective seal with standard size, or slim fit ear plugs.<br /><br />As an added feature, I like the bright orange color. I find it a safety feature to let folks know that I will not hear them if they start talking while I am working.<br /><br />They come prewrapped in a clear plastic pack, that is even perforated for easy removal.<br /><br />In short, this 10 pair makes a perfect fitting trial, before committing to purchasing the larger box to confirm if it serves your needs.
Rating: 5 stars