FAQ

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What are AquaShields?

AquaShields are custom fit ear plugs designed specifically for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. They provide a comfortable and secure fit to keep water out of your ears while allowing you to enjoy your activities without worry.

Why do I need AquaShields?

AquaShields are essential for anyone who participates in water sports to prevent water from entering the ears. Excess water in the ears can lead to discomfort, ear infections, and even hearing loss. AquaShields offer a customized solution for individuals seeking reliable protection.

How do AquaShields work?

AquaShields are custom molded to the unique shape of your ears, creating a tight seal that effectively blocks water from entering. This helps to keep your ears dry and free from water-related issues during swimming, surfing, or any other water activities.

How do I order?

You can easily place an order for AquaShields on our website using our intuitive 3D builder tool. simply head to our product pages to access the 3D builder tool and customize your AquaShields.

For more information on how to order, please refer to our Order Guide.

Please note
You will need to visit an audiologist to obtain your ear impressions and send them before we can begin manufacturing your AquaShields

What is an impression?

An ear impression is like taking a photo of the inside of your ear, but instead of using a camera, we use a soft, medical-grade silicone material. This silicone is gently placed into your ear canal, where it molds to the shape of your ear. Once it hardens, it creates a perfect copy of your ear canal. This copy helps us make custom-fit ear plugs that feel comfy and keep water out when you swim or surf.

What is the difference between custom and generic earplugs?

Custom earplugs, such as AquaShields, stand out from generic options by offering a tailored solution designed specifically for your ears. Crafted from impressions taken by professionals, these earplugs provide a snug and comfortable fit that ensures maximum protection against water and other environmental factors during water activities like swimming or surfing. Unlike generic earplugs, which come in standard sizes and may not seal properly or cause discomfort, custom earplugs offer personalized comfort and effectiveness. With AquaShields, you can further personalize your experience by choosing from a variety of colors and optional features, allowing you to express your style while enjoying superior ear protection.

Are AquaShields comfortable to wear?

Yes, AquaShields are designed with comfort in mind. Because they are custom-molded to fit the unique shape of your ears, they provide a snug and comfortable fit that ensures long-lasting wear without causing irritation or discomfort. Whether you're swimming, surfing, or engaging in other water sports, AquaShields offer a comfortable and secure seal that allows you to focus on enjoying your activities without any distractions.

Will they stay in?

Absolutely! AquaShields will indeed stay securely in your ears during water activities as long as they are fitted correctly. We recommend following the fitting guide meticulously to ensure a proper and secure fit. Once fitted correctly, AquaShields offer a snug and comfortable seal that effectively prevents water from entering your ears, allowing you to enjoy your activities without worry. Whether you're swimming, surfing, or engaging in other water sports, you can trust AquaShields to stay in place and provide reliable protection.

Do they float?

Our AquaShields Floatable range is specifically engineered to float in water, ensuring they remain on the surface if they come out of your ears during water activities. This feature provides added convenience and peace of mind, making it easier to retrieve them if they become dislodged. With our Floatable range, you can enjoy your water activities without any worries about losing your ear protection.

What if they don't fit properly?

If your plugs don’t fit properly, please notify us within four weeks. We will make adjustments free of charge within this time.

Please Note
Adjustments requested after this timeframe may incur an additional charge.

Are they suitable for children?

Certainly! AquaShields are suitable for both adults and children. We offer sizes specifically designed to fit the unique ear shapes of children, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for young swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. It's important to note that children may need to replace their earplugs annually as their ears can grow faster during growth phases. To accommodate this, we offer an AquaShields Junior range with reduced prices. You can check out the Junior range here.

How long will it take to make my custom product ?

Our current lead time for producing the ear plugs is approximately two weeks from the moment we receive your impressions. However, if we can expedite the process and ship them out sooner, we will not hesitate to do so.

How long will my custom earplugs last?

AquaShields are designed to be durable and can last well over 5 years, it is advisable for adults to have new ear impressions taken approximately every four years due to potential changes in the shape of ear canals over time.

For children, we suggest updating impressions annually to accommodate their faster-growing ears. Regularly refreshing impressions ensures optimal fit, comfort, and effectiveness, maintaining reliable protection for both adults and children.

You may notice its time for new impressions when your earplugs begin to feel slightly loose. Additionally, AquaShields Pro DEC filters are designed to be replaceable. So If you find that they are damaged or if your hearing is not as clear through the plug, it would be advisable to replace the filter. Check out our replacement filters here.

What warranty do I get on my product ?

All AquaShields products come with a 30-day warranty period for fit-related issues and a 12-month warranty for defects in build or components. For detailed information regarding refunds and returns, please refer to our Refunds and Returns policy.

What if I lose my AquaShields?

We've got you covered. Your convenience is our priority, which is why we store 3D scans of your impressions. This means you can easily reorder with us without the need for new impressions if you happen to lose your AquaShields. If you've only lost one earplug and don't need a new pair, we offer monaural replacements at a reduced cost. This way, you can get back in the water swiftly and without hassle. Just reach out to us, and we'll assist you in getting the replacement you need to continue enjoying your water activities worry-free.

If I need to order a second product will I need to have my ear impressions taken again ?

We will keep a digital copy of your ear impressions for 4 years and will be able to use them to make further products when you order them. Get in contact with us to find out how you can order a replacement.

Do you offer an express service ?

We do not currently offer an express service, however we are working towards adding this in the future.

Do you ship internationally?

If you need your order shipped internationally we are happy to discuss this with you, reach out at contact@aquashields.co.uk

What is swimmer's ear?

Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is a painful condition caused by inflammation or infection of the ear canal, often due to water remaining in the ear after swimming. Symptoms include itching, redness, ear pain, fluid drainage, and difficulty hearing.

If you suspect you are suffering with swimmer's ear, seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.

Will AquaShields help prevent swimmer's ear?

Yes, AquaShields can help prevent swimmer's ear by keeping water out of the ear canal during water activities like swimming, surfing, and water sports. By creating a snug and comfortable seal, AquaShields effectively block water from entering the ear, reducing the risk of moisture buildup and the subsequent development of swimmer's ear. Wearing AquaShields provides reliable protection, allowing you to enjoy your water activities without worrying about ear-related discomfort or infections.

Will they help prevent infection?

Yes, AquaShields can help prevent infection by providing a protective barrier against water entering the ear canal during water activities like swimming, surfing, and water sports. By effectively blocking water from reaching the delicate inner ear, AquaShields reduce the risk of moisture buildup, which can create a favorable environment for bacteria or fungi to grow and cause infections such as swimmer's ear (otitis externa). Wearing AquaShields helps maintain ear hygiene and reduces the likelihood of infection, allowing you to enjoy your water activities with confidence and peace of mind.

What is surfer's ear?

Surfer's ear, also known as exostosis, is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of bony lumps or growths within the ear canal. This growth typically occurs due to prolonged exposure to cold water and wind, particularly common among water sports enthusiasts like surfers. As these bony growths develop, they can lead to narrowing or blockage of the ear canal, resulting in symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and increased susceptibility to ear infections.

Will AquaShields help prevent surfer's ear?

Yes, AquaShields can help prevent surfer's ear by providing a protective barrier against prolonged exposure to cold water and wind, which are the primary factors contributing to the development of this condition. By wearing AquaShields during water activities like surfing, the ear canal is shielded from direct contact with cold water and wind, reducing the risk of abnormal bone growth and the onset of surfer's ear (exostosis). Additionally, AquaShields can help maintain ear hygiene and reduce the likelihood of ear infections, providing effective protection for surfers and other water sports enthusiasts.

How long does surfer's ear take to develop?

The development of surfer's ear varies from person to person and depends on factors such as frequency and duration of exposure to cold water and wind. In general, it can take several years for surfer's ear to develop noticeably. However, individuals who regularly engage in water activities like surfing or swimming in cold water may start experiencing symptoms earlier, while others may not develop surfer's ear for a longer period. It's essential to be aware of the potential risks and take preventive measures, such as wearing ear protection, to minimize the likelihood of developing this condition over time.

Is surfer's ear treatable?

Yes, surfer's ear is treatable, particularly in its early stages. Treatment options typically focus on managing symptoms and preventing further progression of the condition. In mild cases, over-the-counter pain relievers may help alleviate discomfort associated with surfer's ear. In more severe cases, or when symptoms persist, medical interventions such as ear irrigation to remove excess wax or surgical removal of the bony growths may be necessary. However, prevention is key, and wearing ear protection like earplugs or custom-fit ear molds during water activities can help reduce the risk of developing surfer's ear in the first place.

can they be used for scuba diving?

Using AquaShields for scuba diving poses potential risks due to the pressure changes experienced during dives. Diving involves significant variations in pressure, which can affect the ears. While AquaShields may offer protection against water entering the ear, they may also impede the natural equalization of pressure in the middle ear, increasing the risk of conditions like middle-ear barotrauma or reverse squeeze.

For these reasons, We cannot recommend using AquaShields for diving applications. For more information about ear health and diving, please visit Divers Alert Network

Can I wear AquaShields with other swim gear?

Yes, you can wear AquaShields with other swim gear such as goggles, swim caps, or even a wetsuit without any issues. AquaShields are designed to fit comfortably alongside other swim gear, allowing you to enjoy a full range of water activities with complete protection. Whether you're swimming, surfing, or engaging in other water sports, AquaShields seamlessly integrate with your swim gear, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for uninterrupted enjoyment in the water.

Can I use AquaShields if I have ear tubes or other ear conditions?

AquaShields can be used by individuals with ear tubes or other ear conditions, but it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before use to ensure they are suitable for your specific needs.