Skiing represents a seasonal pursuit many look forward to throughout the year, and for excellent reason! However, for those who utilize hearing aids, it is natural to ask about the security and practicality of wearing them while on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is possible, provided you follow some simple precautions to guard your equipment and maintain your hearing. Today, we’ll look at a few items to evaluate before hitting the slopes.
Advantages of Wearing Hearing Aids While Skiing
Better Attentiveness on the Slopes
Skiing demands acute situational awareness. The ability to hear others approaching or instructors speaking is key to staying safe. Wearing your hearing aids may help you hear more effectively, especially in crowded areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Easier Dialogue with Your Fellow Skiers
Wearing your hearing aids in eases communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. Hearing guidance, warnings, or plan changes accurately reduces the annoyance of miscommunication.
Staying Connected in the Lodge
Whether you’re ordering food, talking to staff, or warming up with your group, wearing your devices allows you to move through your ski day with confidence and comfort.
Assessing The Potential Issues
Issues Posed by Winter Weather
Extreme cold can affect battery performance and cause devices to drain more quickly. It is wise to have extra batteries or a charger, as cold weather can impact performance.
Moisture and Wetness Exposure
Thawing snow can lead to moisture seeping into the battery or microphone area. While water-resistant models are useful, remember that no device is truly waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings add an extra layer of protection.
Potential For Physical Loss
Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. A secure fit is important to prevent your devices from falling out on the slopes.
Methods For Keeping Hearing Aids Protected
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Use a headgear or ear covering: A ski helmet with covers, or a warm headband, can shield Hearing Aids from air, moisture, and force.
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Use retention clips or fasteners: These small accessories help to keep hearing aids secure during movement.
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Newer models are often better designed to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.
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Carry a dehumidifier: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove dampness accumulated during the day.
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Since cold weather decreases battery efficiency, keeping spare batteries or a charger is essential.
Times When Hearing Aids Should Be Left Behind
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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 wet conditions.
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You do not have retention accessories and are worried about device loss.
Some people choose to ski without their Hearing Aids and put them back in once they’re off the slopes and indoors again. It’s your decision, and both approaches can work.
Concluding Thoughts On Skiing And Hearing Aids
You can wear hearing aids while skiing, and many people do so comfortably with the right precautions in place. If communication and situational awareness matter most to you, keeping them in may be the better choice. If you’re worried about moisture or device loss, you might opt to keep them shielded until you’re off the mountain.
Your hearing care provider can offer guidance and help you create a safety plan for your devices this winter. Reach out to us for an appointment.