Crikey! Golfing can damage hearing? How can that be when golfing is a sport known for “sideline” whispers and dainty golf claps to avoid distracting the golfers? Well, apparently, the risk lies with the new-fangled titanium golf clubs.

The noise the titanium clubs make when they whack the ball down the course (and hopefully not in the grove of trees to the right… slice!), has been said to create a sonic boom. While this may be an exaggeration, the fact remains that the noise could cause damage over repeated exposure. One 55-year-old claims his hearing has been partially damaged after using the titanium clubs 3 times a week over the last 18 months.

What type of earplugs should golfers use? Foam earplugs are inexpensive and offer great protection. Foam earplugs come in various levels of noise protection. You could purchase some that allow you to hear ambient noise, yet protect you from dangerous sound levels. Or, you could purchase earplugs that completely block noise (this way, you won’t be distracted by the rude spectators who aren’t aware of proper golf manners!).

Caddies should definitely consider wearing some reusable hearing protection. Though they are not striking the ball with the titanium club, repeated exposure may cause partial hearing damage. As well, cameramen and crew members should also consider wearing hearing protection when covering golf.

And though golf spectators are used to a fairly quiet atmosphere, other sports enthusiasts might consider wearing hearing protection when attending games. Especially when the sporting event is indoors, arenas and courts can become quite loud as the crowd cheers their favourite team or hollers at the officials! Have you ever noticed how your ears ring after you leave a stadium? That could end up being permanent ringing or tinnitus.

Children are even more susceptible to hearing damage. Earmuffs or children’s earplugs can be used to protect their ears during the next sporting event!