SurfMuff™

If you frequently surf in cold-water without protection, it’s not so much a question of “if” you’ll develop Surfer’s Ear (aka: external auditory exostosis or EAE); it’s more a question of “when”.

Repeated exposure to cold water and wind causes the ear canal to grow bone. One study reported ~74% of avid surfers had some degree of surfer’s ear*. Though everyone agrees that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, most surfers choose not to wear any form of ear protection in cold water. Why? Maybe because plugs tend to interfere with hearing while hoods are uncomfortable and restrict movement.

SurfMuff™ was developed to overcome these shortcomings by providing comfort and protection while letting you hear. The patented neoprene headband design offers surfers a superior alternative to plugs and hoods at a reasonable cost (US$12-15).

The special sharkskin interior resists slippage and the chin strap helps prevent loss in overhead surf. An adjustable Velcro rear fastener enables the SurfMuff™ to fit a wide range of head sizes. Next time you paddle out into winter surf, slip your head into a `muff - SurfMuff™ - the superior alternative to plugs and hoods.

You can order SurfMuff™ online @ www.SurfMuff.com or ask your local retailer to stock SurfMuff™ (wholesale available). You can email Scott at Surfmuff1@aol.com.

* Wong, et al. Prevalence of External Auditory Canal Exostoses in Surfers, Archives Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, 9/99; v.125, #9:969-972.