Skiing represents a winter activity countless enthusiasts look forward to all year, and for excellent reason! However, for those who rely on hearing aids, it is natural to ask about the security and practicality of using them while on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is possible, provided you take some basic precautions to guard your equipment and maintain your hearing. Today, we’ll look at a few items to evaluate before hitting the slopes.

The Value of Retaining Hearing Aids During Skiing

Better Attentiveness on the Mountain

Skiing requires good situational awareness. The ability to hear nearby skiers, instructors, or lift operators will help keep you safe. Your hearing aids improve clarity, particularly in busy areas like lift lines and ski school zones.

Streamlined Interaction While On The Slopes

Maintaining your hearing aids in eases communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. Listening for guidance, warnings, or plan changes clearly helps you avoid the annoyance of miscommunication.

Socializing with Confidence at the Resort

Using your hearing aids enables you to comfortably socialize and talk to personnel while in the lodge.

Examining Possible Risks

Impact of Low Temperatures

Extreme cold can impact battery performance and cause devices to drain more quickly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s prudent to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.

Exposure To Dampness And Water

Snow can melt and cause moisture to enter the microphone or battery compartment. While water-resistant models are useful, note that no device is truly waterproof. Headbands, or ear coverings provide an extra layer of protection.

Risk Of Dropping A Device

Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. A secure fit is important to prevent your devices from coming loose on the slopes.

Methods For Keeping Hearing Aids Protected

• Headgear with ear flaps, or a warm headband, provides protection from wind, moisture, and impact.

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

• Newer models tend to be better equipped to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.

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

• Since cold weather decreases battery efficiency, having spare batteries or a charger is crucial.

Moments When Hearing Aids Should Be Left Behind

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

• Your older devices are highly sensitive to moisture.

• You’re skiing in heavy snow or wet conditions.

• You’re concerned about device loss and don’t have retention accessories.

Leaving devices off while skiing and reinserting them indoors is a common strategy. The choice is yours, and either approach is acceptable.

Hearing Aids While Skiing: A Personal Choice

You can wear hearing aids while skiing, and many people do so comfortably with the right precautions in place. 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. Reach out to us for an appointment.