Ear plugs have become a festival must-have - but they aren't all created equal

Image source, Loop Image caption, Ear-plug brands are appealing to music fans with the promise of hearing protection By Andrew Rogers BBC Newsbeat Published 4 July 2026, 02:24 BST Updated 12 minutes ago Every music fan has a list of essential gig and festival accessories, but there's one that's increasingly popular. Ear-plugs. If you've caught one of Harry Styles' recent Wembley shows, you might have spotted other fans wearing them, or you might be packing a pair in preparation for K-pop megastars BTS hitting the UK next week. When 26-year-old Paula shows BBC Newsbeat hers at Radio 1's Big Weekend, the small, v-shaped devices catch the sunlight. It's no secret that exposure to loud music can damage your hearing, and small foam ear-plugs have long been available at venues. But Paula and other young people like her are increasingly wearing a newer type designed to look fashionable while also adding protection from harmful noise. She's become more aware of looking after her hearing after being at music events for her job, and says she always wears them at live gigs and festivals. The makers also claim certain designs can filter out unwanted noise to make acts on-stage sound clearer, something Paula says she's experienced. "They drown out the crowd a little bit and bring down the bass, because sometimes it can be really overwhelming and you can't hear properly", she says. Looking around this festival, Paula definitely isn't alone. Image caption, Paula says she thinks live music can sound better using some types of ear-plugs "I feel like most of my friends are talking about trying to protect their hearing a bit more," says Amira, 21, speaking at Radio 1's Big Weekend. "I think it's more of a common thing coming up". In recent years, brands such as Loop, Alpine and Hears have become more prevalent among gig-goers. The companies position themselves as lifestyle brands and appear to spend big on social media ads targeting young music fans. They attempt to give their products sleek designs, offered in a range of colours that can be matched to outfits or other accessories. Image caption, Amira says she doesn't use ear-plugs, but is interested in getting a pair to protect her hearing. Loop's website shows images of people wearing their devices in casual, fun settings, and the brand has also collaborated with festivals such as Coachella and Tomorrowland. Alpine CEO Arthur van Keeken says their ear-plugs have been popular with "younger, urban people" - exactly the audience for these types of events. He believes they are more conscious of looking after their hearing, and wants a future where music fans view ear protection in the same way skiers see helmets. The British Association of Audiologists - healthcare experts who specialise in diagnosing and treating ear problems - say hearing loss is one of the most common disabilities. According to the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID), it affects about one in three UK adults. The charity's audiology ma