Skiing represents a seasonal pursuit many look forward to throughout the year, and for excellent reason! However, for those who rely on hearing aids, it is natural to question the security and feasibility of using them while on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is possible, assuming you take some basic precautions to guard your equipment and maintain your hearing. Before your next run, let’s examine key factors regarding your hearing aids.

Benefits of Using Hearing Aids While On The Slopes

Better Attentiveness on the Slopes

Skiing requires acute situational awareness. The ability to hear skiers coming up or staff speaking is crucial to maintaining protection. Your hearing aids can boost clarity, especially in crowded areas like lift lines and ski school zones.

Streamlined Interaction While On The Slopes

Maintaining your hearing aids in simplifies communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. Hearing instructions, warnings, or plan changes accurately reduces the annoyance of miscommunication.

Engaging Comfortably in the Lodge

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.

Assessing The Challenges

Challenges Posed by Cold Weather

Low temperatures often reduce battery efficiency; as a result, devices drain more rapidly. It is a good idea to have extra batteries or a charger, as cold weather can impact performance.

Moisture and Snow Exposure

Melted snow can lead to moisture seeping into the battery or microphone area. While water-resistant models are useful, note that no device is truly waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings add an extra level of protection.

Risk of Losing a Device

Even skilled skiers may fall occasionally. Ensuring a secure fit is crucial to prevent the loss of your devices while skiing.

How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe While Skiing

• Use a helmet or ear covering: A ski helmet with ear flaps, or a warm headband, can shield Hearing Aids from wind, moisture, and force.

• Retention clips or sports locks help keep your hearing aids securely fastened.

• Newer devices tend to be better designed to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.

• Bring a drying kit: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove moisture picked up during the day.

• As cold weather decreases battery efficiency, having spare batteries or a charger is essential.

Circumstances For Taking Hearing Aids Off

• You’re doing high-speed runs where wind noise is overwhelming.

• You have older devices that are more sensitive to moisture.

• You are skiing in heavy conditions.

• You lack retention accessories and are worried about device loss.

Some people prefer to ski without their Hearing Aids and put them back in once they’re off the slopes and indoors again. The choice is yours, and either approach is valid.

Making A Personal Decision About Hearing Aids

You can wear hearing aids while skiing, and many people do so easily with the right precautions in place. Prioritizing communication and awareness, wearing your aids may be the best option. Concerns about moisture or device loss could make you keep them protected until you are off the mountain.

Your hearing care provider can offer guidance and help you create a safety plan for your devices this winter. Call us to book a consultation.