I can't hear you --- EAR PROTECTION
 

I'v always been curious about why foam ear plugs are only ever rated to eliminate a maximum of 33 dbs of environmental audio. Frankly, I'd be happy with uncomfortable concrete in my ears if it helped kill some noise...

As it turns out, even coupling over-the-ear protection and foam plugs will only contribute to a reduction of 36 dbs of external/environmental noise...

Great article attached.

Q&A: Why Aren't Earplugs Made with Higher Attenuation Ratings? | HearForever

Can you legally wear earplugs while riding?

I wear these while riding EarPro Sonic Defenders® Max Earplugs from SureFire

yes you can.

Etymotic has some that claims to attenuate unwanted noise by 25 dB but still let music and speech in slightly attenuated but clear. $25, might give it a try. I'd like to be able to listen to Podcasts on the highway.

25 a pop and replace every 3-6 months, wonder if it's worth it or just to grab a box of disposables?

I got custom moulded ear plugs threw work for about $110. Very comfortable, block most noise but I hear all my surroundings around me no problem while riding.

http://www.protectear.com/product/db...lassic-vented/

I have a few pairs of moulded ear plugs from this company - one set has vents that allows a little more noise in and the other pair I had made extra thick and I wear those at the gun range. Excellent product and will last decades.

I have these. Triple flange model. i use them at concerts/clubs. Great on the plane too. eBay for 1/2 the price.

I just use noise cancelling ear buds and listen to music. With no music on it's like I have ear plugs in. But i'm always listening to music. Not even in the deafening range stated by my samsung phone.

I find that if I use headphones I end up listening to music louder to over power my exhaust.

Probably doing 2x the damage as wearing nothing and just listening to the bike.

36 DB's is a lot. Why not just get a quieter exhaust?

The problem is the wind noise when riding at highway speeds

look at helmets with better noise reduction