Numerous people eagerly anticipate skiing, a thrilling sport, all year long. However, for those who utilize hearing aids, it is natural to question the safety and practicality of using them while on the mountain. In many cases, you can ski with your hearing aids, as long as you take a few precautions to safeguard both your devices and your hearing. Before your next run, let’s review several factors concerning your hearing aids.
Benefits of Wearing Hearing Aids While Skiing
Improved Attentiveness while On The Mountain
Maintaining good situational awareness is essential for skiing. The ability to hear skiers coming up or staff speaking is crucial to staying safe. Using your devices may help you hear more clearly, especially in crowded areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Easier Communication with Your Ski Group
Keeping your hearing aids in helps communication when you are skiing with your companions or an instructor. Hearing guidance, 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 allows you to move through your ski day with confidence and comfort.
Examining Possible Risks
Cold 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 Snow And Moisture
Melted snow may lead to moisture seeping into the battery or microphone compartment. Water-resistant hearing aids help, but no device is completely waterproof. Using a helmet, headband, or ear covering adds an additional layer of protection.
Risk of Losing a Device
Even experienced skiers may fall at times. A secure fit is important to prevent your devices from falling out on the slopes.
Steps For Keeping Hearing Aids Protected
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Headgear with ear flaps, or a warm headband, offers protection from wind, moisture, and impact.
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Retention clips or sports locks help keep your hearing aids securely fastened.
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Choose water-resistant models if possible: If you have newer Hearing Aids, they may already be built to withstand moisture better than older models.
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Bring a dehumidifier: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove moisture picked up during the day.
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Since cold weather decreases battery efficiency, having spare batteries or a charger is crucial.
Circumstances For Leaving Hearing Aids Off
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Wind noise is overwhelming during high-speed runs.
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You have older devices that are more sensitive to moisture.
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You’re skiing in heavy snow or wet conditions.
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You’re concerned about device loss and don’t have retention accessories.
Some people prefer 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.
Making A Personal Choice About 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. Concerns about moisture or device loss may lead you to keep them protected until you are 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.
