by friggin old guy » Thu Mar 07, 2013 10:21 am
I think some people are genetically predisposed to surfer's ear if exposed to cold water over extended periods. I've had my ears drilled twice. My younger brother's had his ears drilled 4 times (each). Could be because he white water kayaks in the winter up in Oregon, but he swears he doesn't roll THAT much. He wears plugs religiously (as do I). Not fun surgery and not without risk.
Plugs good idea. Not sure I agree with statement that wearing plugs doesn't have an impact. Seems to make sense that keeping your ear canal warmer prevents occlusion. Seems to work for me, anyway.
I'll bet there's a ton of guys out there that have 80% occlusion and don't even know it. Although surgery techniques have improved over the years, it's possible to incur nerve damage that can affect your sense of taste. Chances of damage go up relating to occlusion rate. Better to catch it early and prevention is better than anything.
I know I look like a dork with those plugs but I don't care. I hate being out of the water and I really really hate that surgery.
4/3mm w/hood on the coast all year, 4/3 ok in the bay too in March but pretty soon 3/2 in the bay with springsuit possible if you sport a walrus figure. Definitely colder on the coast up in Oregon than here but not by a huge margin.