Skiing is a winter pursuit many anticipate all year, and for good reason! However, for those who utilize hearing aids, it is natural to question the security and feasibility 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 protect both your devices and your hearing. Today, we’ll look at a few items to consider before hitting the slopes.
Advantages of Maintaining Hearing Aids on the Slopes
Increased Safety and Awareness
Maintaining good situational awareness is essential for skiing. The ability to hear skiers coming up or staff speaking is key to maintaining protection. Using your devices may help you hear more clearly, especially in busy areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Easier Communication with Your Fellow Skiers
Wearing your hearing aids in helps communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. You’ll be able to hear instructions, warnings, or changes in plan without the frustration of miscommunication.
Staying Connected 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.
Examining Possible Challenges
Impact of Cold Temperatures
Cold temperatures often reduce battery efficiency; consequently, devices drain more rapidly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s smart to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.
Exposure To Snow And Moisture
Snow can melt and cause moisture to enter the microphone or battery compartment. Water-resistant hearing aids help, but no device is completely waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings provide an extra level of protection.
Risk of Losing a Device
Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. Ensuring a secure fit is crucial to prevent the loss of your devices while skiing.
How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe While On The Slopes
- Use a headgear or ear covering: A ski helmet with covers, or a warm headband, can shield Hearing Aids from wind, moisture, and impact.
- Apply security clips or sports locks: These small accessories help keep hearing aids secure during activity.
- Choose moisture-proof models if possible: If you have newer Hearing Aids, they may already be built to withstand moisture better than older versions.
- Bring a dehumidifier: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove dampness accumulated during the day.
- As cold weather decreases battery efficiency, having spare batteries or a charger is crucial.
Times When Hearing Aids Should Be Left Behind
- You’re doing high-speed runs where wind noise is overwhelming.
- Your older devices are very sensitive to moisture.
- You are skiing in wet conditions.
- You do not have retention accessories and are worried about device loss.
Skiing without aids and reinserting them indoors is a choice. The choice is yours, and either approach is valid.
Hearing Aids While Skiing: A Personal Decision
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. If you’re worried about moisture or device loss, you might opt to keep them shielded 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. Contact us for a consultation.