Skiing is a seasonal activity many anticipate all year, and for excellent reason! But if you wear hearing aids, you may question if it’s secure (or feasible) to wear them on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is entirely feasible, provided you follow some simple protective steps to shield your equipment and maintain your hearing. Before your next run, let’s review several factors regarding your hearing aids.
Advantages of Wearing Hearing Aids While On The Slopes
Increased Safety and Awareness
Maintaining good situational awareness is vital for skiing. The ability to hear nearby skiers, instructors, or lift operators will help keep you safe. Your hearing aids can boost clarity, particularly in crowded areas like lift lines and ski school zones.
Improved Talking With Your Group
Wearing your hearing aids in eases communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. Listening for instructions, warnings, or plan changes clearly helps you avoid the annoyance of miscommunication.
Socializing with Confidence at the Resort
Whether you’re ordering food, talking to staff, or warming up with your group, wearing your devices helps you move through your ski day with confidence and comfort.
Examining Possible Risks
Issues Posed by Cold Weather
Cold temperatures frequently reduce battery efficiency; as a result, devices drain more rapidly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s prudent to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.
Moisture and Snow Exposure
Melted snow may lead to moisture seeping into the battery or microphone compartment. While water-resistant models are useful, note that no device is truly waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings add an extra layer of protection.
Risk of Losing a Device
Even skilled skiers can fall occasionally. A secure fit is essential to prevent your devices from falling out on the slopes.
How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe While On The Slopes
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A helmet with ear flaps, or a warm headband, provides protection from wind, moisture, and impact.
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Apply security clips or fasteners: These small accessories help keep hearing aids secure during movement.
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Newer devices tend to be better designed to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.
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A dehumidifier can be used to remove moisture from your devices overnight.
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Have spare batteries or a charger: Cold weather decreases battery efficiency, so backup power is necessary.
Circumstances For Leaving Hearing Aids Off
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You’re doing high-speed runs where wind noise is overwhelming.
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Your older devices are highly sensitive to moisture.
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You are skiing in heavy conditions.
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You’re concerned about device loss and don’t have retention accessories.
Leaving devices off while skiing and reinserting them indoors is a choice. It’s your decision, and both approaches can work.
Hearing Aids While Skiing: A Personal Decision
Many people safely wear hearing aids while skiing by taking the right precautions. If you prioritize communication and awareness, keeping your aids may be the best option. If you’re worried about moisture or device loss, you might opt to keep them protected until you’re off the mountain.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your specific devices, your hearing care provider can help you create a plan that keeps both you and your Hearing Aids safe this winter. Schedule your consultation today.