{"id":71997,"date":"2025-08-25T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-25T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/?p=71997"},"modified":"2026-04-30T01:49:09","modified_gmt":"2026-04-30T01:49:09","slug":"college-football-hearing-protection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection","title":{"rendered":"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>This article was written by Rich Harrell, Ph.D., a HearingLoss.com<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>-Certified provider at The Hearing Clinic in Salem and Blacksburg, Virginia.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a dedicated Hokie, a student in the marching band, or a parent bringing kids to the excitement of college football, game day is electric. The roar of thousands of fans, the cheer of the student section, and the pulse of the band create an atmosphere that\u2019s unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But amid the exhilaration, there\u2019s an often-overlooked risk: hearing loss from loud football games. Stadium noise levels can easily surpass safe limits, making hearing protection on game day more important than you might think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn about the risks of noise-induced hearing loss at games, who\u2019s most vulnerable, and how to protect your hearing without missing a moment of the action. Whether you visit Lane Stadium or any other college football venue, this information will help you guard and preserve your hearing health for the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Loud Are College Football Venues Like Lane Stadium?<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1.jpg\" alt=\"A man cheering and yelling at a sporting event.\" class=\"wp-image-72000\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-500x500.jpg 500w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-50x50.jpg 50w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_1-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>College football stadiums are known for their intense noise, and Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech is no exception. The school\u2019s pregame, featuring the roar of the crowd and the Metallica song \u201cEnter Sandman,\u201d was measured at a peak 126.2 decibels (dB) during the 2017 season, per a list compiled by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstpointusa.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/collegefootball--loudest-stadiums\" target=\"_blank\">FirstPoint USA<\/a>, a sports scholarship and university admissions service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exposure to sounds at 85 dB can begin damaging your hearing in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/how-loud-too-loud\" target=\"_blank\">just a few hours<\/a>. At 100 dB, that damage can start in just 14 minutes. Even short bursts of loud sound can harm your ears. The cumulative effects of noise exposure from just a few events per year can add up, leading to irreversible hearing changes over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other prominent stadiums have registered similar or higher levels. Per FirstPoint USA\u2019s website:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The University of Washington\u2019s Husky Stadium in Seattle has reached 133.6 dB during a record peak moment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Memorial Stadium at Clemson University in South Carolina has hit nearly 133 dB.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Autzen Stadium in Oregon has measured 127 dB.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"color:#ddd\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-spacer gb-block-spacer gb-divider-solid gb-divider-size-1\"><hr style=\"height:30px\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover gb-block-cta\" style=\"padding-top:2%;min-height:13em;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"480\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-70907 size-full\" alt=\"blog-cta-bg\" src=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/blog-cta-bg3.gif\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim\" style=\"background-color:#2c323d\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:32px;line-height:1\">Starting to Feel the Effects from Game Day?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"line-height:1\">College football games are unforgettable, but the noise can take a toll. Want to see how your hearing is holding up? Take our quick, free online hearing screener today. In just 3 minutes, you\u2019ll get instant results and a clearer picture of your hearing health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button gb-block-button ghx-open-hearing-screener-test\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"#\" style=\"border-radius:5px;color:#ffffff;background-color:#3373dc;padding-top:10px;padding-right:1em;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:1em;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2\">Start the Hearing Screener<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"color:#ddd\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-spacer gb-block-spacer gb-divider-solid gb-divider-size-1\"><hr style=\"height:30px\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Young People Get Hearing Loss From Football Games?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. There\u2019s a misconception that hearing loss is a concern only for older adults, but <a href=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/what-is-noise-induced-hearing-loss\">noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)<\/a> can affect anyone at any age. College students, teenagers, and even young children are vulnerable if they\u2019re exposed to excessive noise, especially without protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>NIHL occurs when loud noise damages the sensitive hair cells in the cochlea, tiny structures in the inner ear responsible for converting sound into electrical signals. These hair cells don\u2019t grow back. Science is working on changing that. In the meantime, however, damaging or destroying these sensitive hair cells often means permanent hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>About <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41370-024-00660-3\" target=\"_blank\">1 in 20 people<\/a>, including younger folks, have noise-related hearing loss from various sources, including excess recreational volumes. And <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/deafness-and-hearing-loss\" target=\"_blank\">over a billion<\/a> young people are vulnerable to irreversible hearing loss from unsafe listening habits, making it important to raise awareness early and normalize prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many sections of a stadium consistently exceed safe noise levels. Regardless of your age, if you leave a game with ringing in your ears, muffled hearing, or a sense of \u201cfullness\u201d in your ears, it\u2019s a potential sign your ears have been overexposed and could be at risk for lasting harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Is Most at Risk for Hearing Damage at Football Games?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While any fan can experience hearing damage at a loud event, certain groups are particularly at risk:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Marching band members, who often perform close to amplifiers and brass instruments for extended periods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Students and fans seated in or near the student section, where crowd noise is often the most intense<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Children and teens, whose ears are still developing and may be more susceptible to damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Families seated close to speaker arrays or sideline public-address systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Staff or volunteers working in stadiums regularly without hearing protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anyone who already has a hearing issue or related condition, such as those with tinnitus (ringing in the ears or head) or mild hearing loss<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Exposure builds over time. That means regular attendees, students with season tickets or band members who perform weekly, may face a cumulative risk that can increase with each game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s the Best Hearing Protection for Football Games?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that you don\u2019t have to miss a second of the game to protect your hearing. In fact, today\u2019s quality hearing protection options are designed with your optimal experience in mind. They lower volume while maintaining sound clarity, so you still feel like you\u2019re part of the crowd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most recommended solutions include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Earmuffs <\/strong>\u2014 Over-the-ear earmuffs can offer solid noise reduction and can be a good resource for children or those who find in-ear options uncomfortable. They\u2019re easy to use and can be worn over hearing aids in many cases. Still, they\u2019re often bulky and may not fit securely for long periods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High-fidelity earplugs<\/strong> \u2014 These are designed for listeners who want to lower the volume without sacrificing audio detail. Instead of muffling sound, they preserve the richness of engine noise, commentary, and crowd energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Custom-molded earplugs<\/strong> \u2014 Made from impressions of your ears, these offer superior comfort, better acoustic sealing, and more precise attenuation, which means you get the protection you need while still enjoying every moment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Foam earplugs, readily available and inexpensive, can provide broad noise reduction in a pinch but tend to muffle sound and can make it harder to enjoy the clarity of what you want to hear. For an optimal sound experience, high-fidelity alternatives help fans enjoy the excitement while staying safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"color:#ddd\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-spacer gb-block-spacer gb-divider-solid gb-divider-size-1\"><hr style=\"height:30px\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover gb-block-cta\" style=\"padding-top:2%;min-height:13em;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"480\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-70907 size-full\" alt=\"blog-cta-bg\" src=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/blog-cta-bg3.gif\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim\" style=\"background-color:#2c323d\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:32px;line-height:1\">Hearing Protection Made for Game Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"line-height:1\">You deserve protection that fits just right for game day. Custom-molded earplugs offer long-lasting comfort, clear sound, and serious protection \u2014 no slipping, no muffling, no missing out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button gb-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/find-a-hearing-professional\" style=\"border-radius:5px;color:#ffffff;background-color:#3373dc;padding-top:10px;padding-right:1em;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:1em;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2\">Find a Provider Near You<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"color:#ddd\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-spacer gb-block-spacer gb-divider-solid gb-divider-size-1\"><hr style=\"height:30px\" \/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Common Myths About Wearing Earplugs at Games?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Misinformation may be one of the biggest reasons some fans skip hearing protection. Here are some common myths and the facts to know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Myth 1: \u201cI won\u2019t hear the game or the crowd if I wear earplugs.\u201d<\/strong><br>Fact: High-fidelity earplugs reduce harmful decibels but preserve the quality of the sound. You\u2019ll still hear the game and the band but at a safer level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Myth 2: \u201cOnly older adults need to worry about hearing loss.\u201d<\/strong><br>Fact: NIHL is increasingly common in young adults. Regular exposure to stadium-level noise without protection raises the risk, regardless of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Myth 3: \u201cEarplugs are uncomfortable and fall out easily.\u201d<\/strong><br>Fact: Some disposable earplugs can shift if not fitted right. Many may now come in different sizes or designs. Custom earplugs offer a more secure, comfortable fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Myth 4: \u201cWearing earplugs will make me look weird.\u201d<\/strong><br>Fact: From earbuds to hearing aids, in-ear devices are common, are often inconspicuous, and are more widely accepted each day. Protecting your hearing is a sign of awareness, not awkwardness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Should You Pack to Protect Your Hearing on Game Day?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Game-day gear usually includes sunglasses, hats, and team shirts, but hearing protection deserves a place on that list. Here\u2019s what to pack to keep your ears safe without missing a beat of the fun:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>High-fidelity earplugs<\/strong> \u2014 These specially designed earplugs reduce harmful noise levels while preserving sound clarity, so you can still hear the game, the band, and the crowd without distortion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Volume-limiting headphones for young children<\/strong> \u2014 Kids\u2019 ears can be especially sensitive to loud noises. Volume-limiting headphones cap the maximum sound exposure, preventing sudden spikes from overwhelming their hearing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A small, clean storage case to keep plugs or headphones protected<\/strong> \u2014 Earplugs and headphones can easily get lost or damaged if tossed into bags unprotected. A compact case helps keep them clean, safe, and accessible during the game, ready to use when needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Optional extras like backup earplugs or comfort accessories<\/strong> \u2014 Sometimes earplugs can get uncomfortable during long games, or you might misplace a pair. Having extras on hand, along with earplug cleaning wipes, helps ensure you won\u2019t be caught off guard.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning ahead means you won\u2019t find yourself unprepared if the noise becomes overwhelming. Many stadiums don\u2019t offer hearing protection on-site, so bringing your own is essential to safeguard your hearing while enjoying the full energy of game day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Loud Is Lane Stadium, and Is It Safe for Kids?<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2.jpg\" alt=\"A child at a sporting event wearing earmuffs to protect his hearing.\" class=\"wp-image-71999\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-500x500.jpg 500w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-50x50.jpg 50w, https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_FINAL_Blog_Image_2-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Lane Stadium\u2019s 126 dB peak during \u201cEnter Sandman\u201d nearly rivals the noise levels of a jet engine at about 100 feet away. For children, that can be especially dangerous. Young ears are more sensitive, and early damage can have a long-term impact on language development, classroom learning, and even emotional well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exposure to noise at or above 85 dB can cause hearing damage over time. As mentioned above, exposure to 100 dB for at least 14 minutes can heighten risk of harm. At 110 dB, the risk increases even with exposure limited to just two minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re bringing young ones, consider sitting in upper-level seats away from speakers, and provide hearing protection the kiddos will keep wearing throughout the game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Answers About Football Game Hearing Protection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s the best way to protect your ears at a football game?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use high-fidelity customized earplugs or volume-limiting headphones. These options reduce volume without distorting sound, letting you enjoy the game safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are college football stadiums too loud for kids?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, many may exceed safe decibel levels for children. Hearing protection is necessary to help avoid permanent damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can loud stadiums cause permanent hearing damage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Exposure at 110 dB, even for a couple minutes, can lead to irreversible hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I bring earplugs to Lane Stadium?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, especially if you\u2019re seated near the band, student section, or speakers. They\u2019re a smart addition to your game-day gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can students protect their hearing at sporting events?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Students should wear earplugs, take breaks from high-noise areas, and limit cumulative exposure over a season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Score: Protecting Your Hearing Is a Long Game<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Football games are a celebration of school spirit, family tradition, and unforgettable energy. But hearing loss isn\u2019t something that waits for the later years of life \u2014 it\u2019s happening now and often silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking small steps, like wearing earplugs or planning your seating, can have a major long-term payoff: vibrant hearing for a lifetime. It\u2019s not about silencing your experience. It\u2019s about helping you enjoy the game season after season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Take the First Step: Screen Your Hearing or Find a Certified Provider<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve noticed ringing in your ears after a game, muffled sounds, or increased sensitivity to noise, it may be time to check in with a hearing professional. At the Hearing Clinic in Salem, Virginia, we\u2019re committed to helping fans of all ages protect their hearing and stay connected to the sounds they love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to hear your best, celebrate your best, and dive into all the sights and sounds of the game? Take HearingLoss.com\u2019s <a hred=\"#\" class=\"ghx-open-hearing-screener-test\" style=\"cursor:pointer;\">free online hearing screener<\/a> \u2014 it\u2019s just a few minutes \u2014 or quickly <a href=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/find-a-hearing-professional\">find a hearing care professional near you<\/a> using the easy locator tool. It\u2019s a first step toward protecting your hearing and helping preserve it for all the games and memorable moments to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">References<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>College Football | Loudest Stadiums (2020). FirstPoint USA. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstpointusa.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/collegefootball--loudest-stadiums\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.firstpointusa.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/collegefootball&#8211;loudest-stadiums<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How Loud Is Too Loud? (2025). National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/how-loud-too-loud\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/how-loud-too-loud<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What Is the Safe Noise Exposure Level to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss? (2024). Nature. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41370-024-00660-3\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41370-024-00660-3<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deafness and Hearing Loss (2025). World Health Organization. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/deafness-and-hearing-loss\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/deafness-and-hearing-loss<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss? (n.d.). HearingLoss.com. <a href=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/what-is-noise-induced-hearing-loss\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/what-is-noise-induced-hearing-loss<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sound Level Comparisons (dBA) (n.d.). San Francisco International Airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flysfo.com\/sites\/default\/files\/media\/sfo\/community-environment\/Noise_Portal-Comparative_Noise_Levels_Chart.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.flysfo.com\/sites\/default\/files\/media\/sfo\/community-environment\/Noise_Portal-Comparative_Noise_Levels_Chart.pdf<\/a>. (Accessed July 11, 2025).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Game day brings unforgettable energy, but stadium noise can put your hearing at risk. From Lane Stadium\u2019s 126 dB roar to the band\u2019s pulse, find out who\u2019s most vulnerable, what myths to ignore, and the best hearing protection to pack so you can cheer safely all season long.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":381,"featured_media":72012,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-71997","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-hearing","8":"entry"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover how loud college football games like Lane Stadium can damage hearing and learn the best ways to protect your ears without missing the action.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"HearingLoss.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4bf158e87788c60a472b2626588a5c10\"},\"headline\":\"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection\"},\"wordCount\":2044,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/08\\\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Hearing\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection\",\"name\":\"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears - HearingLoss.com\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/08\\\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00\",\"description\":\"Discover how loud college football games like Lane Stadium can damage hearing and learn the best ways to protect your ears without missing the action.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/08\\\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/08\\\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg\",\"width\":1800,\"height\":1200,\"caption\":\"Close-up of a football player\u2019s hand in a glove holding an American football on the field, preparing for kickoff in a stadium.\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/college-football-hearing-protection#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/\",\"name\":\"HearingLoss.com\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"HearingLoss.com\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/logo_Hearingloss_white.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/logo_Hearingloss_white.webp\",\"width\":967,\"height\":163,\"caption\":\"HearingLoss.com\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4bf158e87788c60a472b2626588a5c10\",\"name\":\"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.\"},\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/hearingloss.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/rharrell\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_description":"Discover how loud college football games like Lane Stadium can damage hearing and learn the best ways to protect your ears without missing the action.","og_url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection","og_site_name":"HearingLoss.com","article_published_time":"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1800,"height":1200,"url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.","Est. reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection"},"author":{"name":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#\/schema\/person\/4bf158e87788c60a472b2626588a5c10"},"headline":"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears","datePublished":"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection"},"wordCount":2044,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg","articleSection":["Hearing"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection","url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection","name":"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears - HearingLoss.com","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg","datePublished":"2025-08-25T14:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-30T01:49:09+00:00","description":"Discover how loud college football games like Lane Stadium can damage hearing and learn the best ways to protect your ears without missing the action.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image.jpg","width":1800,"height":1200,"caption":"Close-up of a football player\u2019s hand in a glove holding an American football on the field, preparing for kickoff in a stadium."},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/college-football-hearing-protection#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"The Real Aftershock of Game Day? It Might Be in Your Ears"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/","name":"HearingLoss.com","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#organization","name":"HearingLoss.com","url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/logo_Hearingloss_white.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/logo_Hearingloss_white.webp","width":967,"height":163,"caption":"HearingLoss.com"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/#\/schema\/person\/4bf158e87788c60a472b2626588a5c10","name":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/0bb4466b354ee254c31e95838a24b09bfa72d0a967513f2725068009a1ee0055?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D."},"url":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/author\/rharrell"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image-600x400.jpg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/25-100-85-02833_-_Internal_HLC_Blog_Co-Authored_Harrell_Game-Day_8.8_FINAL_Main_Image-600x600.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Rich Harrell, Ph.D.","author_link":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/blog\/author\/rharrell"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/posts\/71997","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/users\/381"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=71997"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/posts\/71997\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/media\/72012"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=71997"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=71997"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hearingloss.com\/prospus\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=71997"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}