If you're a regular cyclist, you’ve probably experienced the sharp, persistent sound of wind in your ears. This wind noise can be more than just annoying; it can lead to headaches or earaches. At higher speeds or on open roads, it can really impact your cycling trip. This is not only annoying, but also potentially harmful. The good news is: there's a simple solution to make your cycling trips more comfortable — and keep the wind at your back instead of in your ears.
Can wind noise while cycling damage your hearing?
When we think of hearing damage, loud music at festivals or noisy work environments often come to mind. Wind noise while cycling is a lesser-known but serious issue. At speeds as low as 20 km/h, wind noise can already reach 85 decibels. If you're cycling faster — on a road bike or e-bike, for example — you may encounter peaks of up to 95 decibels. Prolonged exposure to noise levels between 80 and 85 decibels can lead to hearing damage. So, unfortunately, wind noise while cycling can indeed be harmful.
Complaints due to wind in your ears
Prolonged exposure to this constant wind noise in your ears while cycling can cause you to suffer from:
-
Sore ears or stinging ears
-
A wheezing or squeaking sound after cycling
-
Reduced concentration or fatigue
-
Headache
Those who cycle every day or travel long distances are particularly at risk of hearing damage.
How to prevent hearing damage from wind while cycling
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to keep wind from getting into your ears while cycling: use the Alpine MotoSafe earplugs. These earplugs reduce wind noise, without completely blocking out ambient sounds. It’s crucial for your safety to remain aware of your surroundings in traffic, and these earplugs strike the perfect balance. The earplugs against wind noise protect your hearing while keeping you alert to traffic. This means you can enjoy every ride — whether for leisure or your daily commute — worry-free.
