Skiing represents a winter pursuit many look forward to all year, and for good reason! However, for those who utilize hearing aids, it is natural to ask about the safety and feasibility of wearing them while on the mountain. In most cases, you can ski with your hearing aids, as long as you take a few precautions to protect both your devices and your hearing. Before your next run, let’s review several factors regarding your hearing aids.
Benefits of Wearing Hearing Aids While On The Slopes
Improved Situational Awareness while On The Mountain
Maintaining high situational awareness is vital for skiing. The ability to hear nearby skiers, instructors, or lift operators is crucial for keeping you safe. Your hearing aids improve clarity, particularly in busy areas like lift lines and ski school zones.
Easier Communication with Your Fellow Skiers
Maintaining your hearing aids in eases communication when you are skiing with your companions or an instructor. You’ll be able to hear instructions, warnings, or changes in plan without the frustration of miscommunication.
Socializing with Confidence at the Resort
Keeping your hearing aids ensures that you are able to socialize and interact with staff while in the lodge.
Reviewing Possible Risks
Impact of Low Temperatures
Extreme cold can affect battery performance and cause devices to drain more quickly. It is a good idea to carry extra batteries or a charger, as cold weather can impact performance.
Protecting Equipment From Damp Conditions
Snow can melt and cause moisture to enter the microphone or battery compartment. While water-resistant models are helpful, remember that no device is truly waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings provide an extra layer of protection.
Potential For Physical Loss
Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. A secure fit is essential to prevent your devices from coming loose on the slopes.
Methods For Keeping Hearing Aids Protected
- A helmet with ear flaps, or a warm headband, offers protection from wind, moisture, and impact.
- Apply security clips or sports locks: These small accessories help to keep hearing aids secure during movement.
- Newer models tend to be better designed to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.
- Bring a drying kit: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove dampness picked up during the day.
- As cold weather decreases battery efficiency, keeping spare batteries or a charger is essential.
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.
Skiing without aids and reinserting them indoors is a choice. It’s your decision, and both approaches can work.
Hearing Aids While Skiing: A Personal Decision
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. If you worry 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.