Numerous individuals eagerly anticipate skiing, a cold-weather sport, all year long. But if you use hearing aids, you might question if it’s secure (or feasible) to keep them on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is possible, assuming you take some basic protective steps 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 Maintaining Hearing Aids During Winter Sports
Better Awareness on the Mountain
Maintaining high situational awareness is essential for skiing. The ability to hear approaching 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.
Improved Talking With Your Group
Maintaining your hearing aids in simplifies 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
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.
Understanding The Potential Issues
Impact of Low Temperatures
Cold temperatures frequently 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.
Moisture and Wetness Exposure
Snow can melt and cause moisture to enter the microphone or battery compartment. While water-resistant models are helpful, note that no device is truly waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings add an extra level of protection.
Risk of Losing a Device
Even skilled skiers can fall at times. A secure fit is important to prevent your devices from falling out on the slopes.
How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe While Skiing
- Headgear with ear flaps, or a warm headband, provides protection from wind, moisture, and impact.
- Retention clips or sports locks are useful for keeping your hearing aids securely fastened.
- Choose water-resistant models if possible: If you have newer Hearing Aids, they may already be designed to withstand moisture better than older models.
- Bring a drying kit: Applying a dehumidifier overnight can help remove moisture accumulated during the day.
- Since cold weather decreases battery efficiency, keeping spare batteries or a charger is crucial.
When You Might Not Want to Wear Hearing Aids While Skiing
- You’re doing high-speed runs where wind noise is overwhelming.
- You have older devices that are more sensitive to moisture.
- You’re skiing in heavy snow or wet conditions.
- 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. The choice is yours, and either approach is valid.
Making A Personal Choice About Hearing Aids
You can wear hearing aids while skiing, and many people do so easily with the right precautions in place. Prioritizing communication and awareness, keeping your aids may be the preferred option. Concerns about moisture or device loss could make you 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.