As someone who spends a lot of time in the water, I’ve learnt that the best swimming earplugs can make a real difference. I’ve been swimming competitively since I was 10 but, in 2016, I got into triathlons as a way to get fit after the birth of my son, and it quickly became part of my regular routine. Between pool sessions and the occasional open-water swim, I’m usually in the water around twice a week. Over the years, I’ve also had my fair share of swimmer’s ear, which is something many regular swimmers will be familiar with. The condition, known medically as otitis externa, happens when water gets trapped in the outer ear canal, creating a warm, damp environment where bacteria can thrive. The result can be itching, swelling and some surprisingly sharp pain, which is why earplugs have become a non-negotiable part of my swim kit. Plus, I often swim with bone-conduction waterproof headphones , and the sound quality is noticeably better when the ears are blocked with a decent pair of swimming earplugs.…