From everything I've heard or read, foam plugs are more efficient than anything else,
if you use them right. Unfortunately, most people don't use them right, which explains why one of the posts above said that custom molded plugs are better.
Depending on the size and shape of your head, it may not be possible to wear muffs with a cap or hat. Some can, some can't.
I can't, because my cap comes so far down on my head that the ear cups lap over it. Even when I position the muffs as low on my ears as possible, the top of the cup rides over the edge of the cap, holding it away from my head, resulting in poor noise control. If I try to wear my hat higher, the band of the muffs may keep the cap from falling off, but it is uncomfortable and hard to adjust. A hat with a full brim all the way around is impossible, even with muffs that have the band around the back of the neck. The brim comes almost down to the top of my ears. Somebody whose head has a higher crown wouldn't have that problem.
I have used foam plugs and molded plugs, but I can't stand the feeling of being so totally deaf that I am isolated from the world. I used to pull them out a little so I could hear something, then I didn't get good protection.
The solution for me was ESP electronic ear plugs. I've been using them for years. They work great - I can hear normal conversations, but I get good protection. They are dependable, but I have had them so many years that I naturally have needed service, and I have found Jack Homa's (ESP's) customer support to be excellent.
I have always used the older analog type, and never saw any need for the more expensive digital model.
http://www.espamerica.com/Another problem with muffs is, they are so hot that it is virtually impossible to use them on a hot humid summer day in the South.
