If you operate power tools or other noisy equipment—including table saws, benchtop planers, or lawnmowers—protecting your hearing is essential. According to guidelines from the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), prolonged exposure to noise above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing loss, and many common power tools exceed that threshold by a wide margin. Fortunately, hearing protection has come a long way in both effectiveness and comfort. And along the way, we’ve got tips on what you need to look for while you shop around. The result is a lineup that balances maximum protection with real-world usability, ensuring each recommendation stands up to everyday workshop conditions.