Hearing protection for shooting and motorsport
A gunshot is one of the loudest sounds most people ever hear. Even one unprotected shot close to the ear can cause permanent damage. Motorsport and motorcycling bring a different risk: long hours of wind and engine noise.
Loud, sudden and damaging.
Gunfire produces peak sound levels well above 140 dB, far beyond the level at which instant damage can occur. Because the noise is so short, it does not feel as loud as it is, and the ear has no time to protect itself.
For shooters using a rifle or shotgun, the ear nearer the muzzle takes most of the blast. For a right-handed shooter, that is usually the left ear, which is why shooters often have more hearing loss on one side.
The ear nearer the muzzle is usually more affected, so protect both ears every time.
Wind noise inside a helmet at motorway speeds can be loud enough to damage hearing over long rides.
Protection for shooting.
- Earplugs: foam or reusable plugs give strong protection, and are a good minimum.
- Earmuffs: easy to use. Check the seal is not broken by glasses arms or hats.
- Double protection: earplugs and earmuffs together, recommended for indoor ranges and large calibres.
- Electronic protection: lets you hear conversation, instructions and game, but cuts off instantly at the shot. Available as muffs or as in-ear devices, including custom-moulded versions.
Make protection part of your routine before the first shot, and make sure anyone standing nearby is protected too, including spectators, loaders and dog handlers.
Protection for motorsport.
- Wear earplugs under your helmet on longer rides. In the UK it is legal to wear earplugs while riding.
- A well-fitting helmet and a neck seal reduce wind noise.
- Spectators at race circuits and track days should protect their ears, especially near the pit lane and start line.
- Mechanics and teams working on engines should follow the same advice as anyone working in noise.
Measure both ears, and track changes.
We test each ear separately, so a one-sided loss from shooting is picked up clearly.
A yearly test if you shoot regularly shows whether your protection is doing its job.
Tinnitus is common in shooters. Assessment and advice are part of every hearing test.
If shooting has already affected your hearing, modern hearing aids can help a great deal.
Frequently asked questions.
Yes. A single unprotected shot close to the ear can cause permanent hearing loss and tinnitus.
Usually the ear nearer the muzzle. For a right-handed shooter with a rifle or shotgun, that is generally the left ear.
Good electronic protection cuts off loud impulses quickly and lets you hear speech. For very loud environments, combining earplugs with muffs gives the most protection.
Yes, in the UK it is legal to wear earplugs while riding a motorcycle.
Every year or two is sensible if you shoot regularly, or sooner if you notice ringing or changes in your hearing.
Check both ears.
A free hearing test in our Birmingham clinic, or £50 at home.
Noise-induced hearing lossHearing loss in one earTinnitusNoise at workHearing protection guide
Written and clinically reviewed by our HCPC registered audiologists. Last reviewed: 15 October 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your hearing or your ears, book an appointment or speak to your GP.