Waterproof hearing aids are ideal for anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle, loves the outdoors, or lives in hot, humid, windy, or rainy climates. These devices are built to withstand harsh weather, sweat, accidental splashes, and other forms of moisture with ease. Some of the most durable waterproof hearing aids available today can even be fully submerged underwater for short periods of time without damage.
Discover the latest advancements in water-resistant hearing technology and the top waterproof hearing aids available today.
Top Waterproof Hearing Aids
What Are Waterproof Hearing Aids?
Waterproof hearing aids are hearing devices designed to withstand exposure to moisture like sweat, rain, and humidity without being damaged. Today’s top waterproof hearing aids are even durable enough to be fully submerged underwater for short periods of time.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, water-resistant and waterproof hearing aids are not the same thing. To be considered waterproof, a hearing aid needs to have a minimum Ingress Protection (IP) rating of IP67.
The highest waterproof rating for any hearing aid available today is IP68.
IP Ratings
IP ratings are a standardized way of indicating the level of protection a product has against dust and moisture. The higher each digit is at the end of an IP rating, the more durable a device will be against dust (first digit) and moisture (second digit):
- IP67 Hearing Aids: are dust-tight (6) and can withstand immersion in shallow water for a short period of time (7).
- IP68 Hearing Aids: are dust-tight (6) and can withstand continuous immersion in water up to 1 meter without damage (8).
Waterproof hearing aids undergo strict lab testing and must meet specific industry standards to be give a waterproof IP rating.
Protective Coating
Waterproof hearing aids use a specialised, protective coating on both external and internal surfaces. This hydrophobic nano-coating is designed to repel water, sweat, oils, and other debris, acting as a shield against moisture at a microscopic level.
Sealed Components
Many waterproof hearing aid models also physically seal key internal components. This included microphone ports, receivers, battery compartments, and processing chips. By reducing the number of openings where moisture can seep in, waterproof hearing aids become better protected against issues like corrosion, electrical shorts, sound distortion, and more.
Waterproof Hearing Aid Styles
You can get waterproof hearing aids in nearly every style. However, invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) style hearing aids are not waterproof. This is due to their tiny size, which limits the space for the robust seals and protective coatings needed for complete water immersion.
Here are all the styles of waterproof hearing aids with an IP68 rating available today:
- In-the-Ear Hearing Aids (ITE)
- In-the-Canal Hearing Aids (ITC)
- Completely-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids (CIC)
- Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids (BTE)
- Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids (RIC)
Benefits of Waterproof Hearing Aids
Waterproof hearing aids offer significant benefits, primarily by providing enhanced durability, peace of mind, and lifestyle adaptability. For anyone with an active or outdoorsy lifestyles, or people living in humid or rainy climates, waterproof hearing aids can be truly life changing.
Below are some of the top advantages of waterproof hearing aids:
Durability and Longevity
Waterproof hearing aids are built with specialized seals and nano-coatings inside and out to prevent moisture and dirt from damaging delicate electronic components. This enhanced durability can extend the lifespan of the device and reduce the need for frequent repairs.
Weather-Resistance
The weather resistance of waterproof hearing aids is another significant benefit for many people. The enhanced durability protects the device from damage caused by common environmental factors like humidity, sweat, rain, fog, and temperature changes.
Beyond moisture, waterproof hearing aids also offer maximum dust-protection, ensuring fine particles can’t clog or erode delicate internal components, which is beneficial in windy, dusty, and sandy environments.
Freedom and Flexibility
For people who exercise, work outdoors, or enjoy water sports, hiking, or gardening, waterproof hearing aids are crucial. The added protection means you don’t have to worry about weather conditions, sweat, or even brief exposure under water. This peace of mind allows for a more spontaneous and less restrictive daily routine.
Additional Waterproof Hearing Aid Features
Today’s waterproof hearing aids are not only incredibly durable, but many models also offer a wide range of other cutting-edge features. Below are some of the additional features you’ll find in the top waterproof hearing aids available today:
Rechargeable Batteries
Many waterproof hearing aids use rechargeable batteries, eliminating the constant need to buy and replace disposable batteries. Rechargeable devices can be charged overnight and provide reliable power all day long.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Many waterproof hearing aids also offer Bluetooth connectivity to enhance their functionality even further. Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly stream music and audio from your smartphone, tablet, computer, television, and other devices directly to your hearing aids.
Tinnitus Relief
Some waterproof hearing aid models offer sound therapy features to help with tinnitus relief. For many people who experience both hearing loss and tinnitus, hearing aids are a life-changing tool that can significantly improve quality of life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Many of the most advanced waterproof hearing aids also incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to enhance their performance. Hearing aids with AI technology offer innovative sound and speech clarity, automatic adjustments based on your environment, and so much more.
Find a Clinic
Our Find a Clinic tool makes it simple to discover hearing clinics near you. From your first test to ongoing care, local audiologists are ready to guide you every step of the way. Take the guesswork out of finding help and get connected to the right support close to home.
Top Waterproof Hearing Aid Brands
The best hearing aid for you will depend on your unique hearing needs, budget, and lifestyle. However, selecting a reputable brand can greatly influence the comfort, performance, and reliability of a hearing device. Here are some of the top waterproof hearing aid brands widely recommended by audiologists:
Talk to a Trusted Audiologist
Hearing Choices Australia has a national network of trusted audiologists available to provide FREE, no-obligation consultations. Contact us today to find the best waterproof hearing aid for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Frequently Ask Questions
Get answers to the most frequent asked questions about waterproof hearing aids:
What is the most waterproof hearing aid?
Starkey waterproof hearing aids have the highest waterproof rating for any hearing aid available worldwide. Their waterproof devices have an IP68 rating, which is the highest rating for any hearing aid available today. They are completely dustproof and can withstand continuous immersion in water up to 1 meter.
Want a free waterproof hearing aid demo? Contact our audiologists to find a clinic near you.
Can hearing aids be worn while swimming?
No, you should not wear your hearing aids while swimming. Hearing devices should always be removed before swimming and showering.
Waterproof hearing aids with an IP68 rating offer the highest level of water protection available. However, no electronic device is indestructible. You should always avoid unnecessary exposure to water whenever possible to ensure optimal longevity and functionality of your hearing aids.
Still have questions? Contact our audiologists to get immediate answers to all your hearing care questions.
How much do waterproof hearing aids cost?
Waterproof hearing aid prices typically vary between $1,300 and $6,000 or more, depending on the features they offer. More advanced technology and premium features such as waterproof design will affect the final price of a hearing aid.
Our audiologists can help you find the best hearing aids for your budget and needs. Contact us today.
What is the best waterproof hearing aid?
The best waterproof hearing aid for you will depend on your type of hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget. Starkey waterproof hearing aids have the highest waterproof rating for any hearing aid available worldwide, making them one of the most popular brands. Starkey waterproof hearing aids are completely dustproof and can withstand continuous immersion in water up to 1 meter.
Contact our audiologists to find the best waterproof hearing aid for you.
