Jennifer Fishburn, a 49-year-old nurse, suffers from tinnitus due to years of attending concerts without earplugs. In her youth, wearing earplugs was considered socially unacceptable, and she preferred to be close to the speakers in the pit. However, her daughter Kass Adams, now 23, has started using earplugs after witnessing her mother’s hearing damage. Adams, along with many Gen Zers and young millennials, have made earplugs a trendy accessory for concerts to protect their hearing.
With the rise of trendy earplugs, many young people are exploring unique ways to incorporate them into their style. Row Kiefer, a 28-year-old product designer, was initially embarrassed to wear earplugs but now never leaves the house without them. Brands like Loop have designed metallic earplugs that resemble jewelry to appeal to younger audiences. This shift in perception has been compared to the evolution of sunglasses, once seen as just a practical accessory but now a fashion statement.
Some individuals, like music producer Jack Antonoff, are setting a positive example by openly discussing their use of earplugs in loud environments. This openness helps reduce the stigma surrounding hearing loss and encourages others to take better care of their hearing. Dr. Victoria Zambrano, a Miracle-Ear audiologist, emphasizes the importance of protecting one’s hearing, as prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to permanent damage such as tinnitus and hearing loss.
Camila Savinon and Lily Kim, both 27 years old, have also embraced the use of earplugs after experiencing pain and ringing in their ears following concerts. Zambrano warns that exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels for extended periods can cause significant hearing damage. Many concerts and venues average around 110-120 decibels, meaning that earplugs are essential to protect one’s hearing and avoid long-term consequences.
Stephanie Rodriguez, a 27-year-old production manager, uses foam earplugs at clubs and concerts after seeing her father experience hearing loss due to loud noises. She recognizes the importance of prioritizing ear protection to prevent irreversible damage. As more young people adopt the use of earplugs, the stigma surrounding wearing them has decreased, making it a common practice among concertgoers to safeguard their hearing.
Through the influence of celebrities like Jack Antonoff and the growing awareness of the risks associated with loud noise exposure, a new generation of concertgoers is prioritizing ear protection. The availability of stylish and trendy earplugs has made it easier for young people to embrace the practice of wearing earplugs while enjoying live music. This shift reflects a broader cultural change where the health and well-being of one’s hearing are being valued and protected, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy live music without compromising their hearing health.
