When kayaking on whitewater rivers you’ll end at some point with your head submerged in the river. Weather it’s it from a swim, a roll, or just a big wave blasting you in the head you will get water in your ears. I have a big problem with getting the water out of my ears once it gets in there. For me one of my most important pieces of outdoor gear that I use almost every time I go kayaking is a pair of DOC’S PRO PLUGS. They are easy to put in, they stay in, they are pretty comfortable, I can hear almost was well with or with out them, they only cost $10, and the best part is I do not have to spend hours after a day of boating trying to get the water out of my ears. I use the only ones they sell at Wilderness Voyageurs store (which has other great outdoor gear), the vented ones with a leash. At the store they will custom fit you with the correct size. Size matters in ears. I’ve tried some other ear plugs and I had trouble hearing when using them and they all made my ears ring when using them. With Doc’s vented plugs there is no ringing and very little loss of hearing when using them. Comfort, well it does take a few minuets to yet used to them, but once you start paddling and surfing you’ll soon forget you have them in. $10 at Wilderness Voyageurs store in Ohiopyle PA (800-272-4141), or on line at www.gearfetch.com  but I’d get them at the store where they size them for you.