Why Putting On a Hat Isn't Always Simple When You Wear a Cochlear Implant

Most people grab a hat without a second thought. Pull it on, walk out the door, done.

If you wear a behind-the-ear cochlear implant processor, it is not that simple.

A regular hat can get in the way

The processor sits right behind your ear. The microphones need to stay uncovered, and there is a coil that has to stay connected magnetically to the implant. A regular hat pushes against all of that, shifts the processor, muffles the mics, or just feels wrong until you are tugging at it every five minutes.

I know this because I have lived it. I wear a cochlear implant myself, and for years I just wanted to wear a hat like everyone else without babysitting my processor the whole time.

That is basically why EarFree exists. The hat works around the implant instead of fighting it.

Giving the processor its own space

The hats have an opening and a small external pocket that give the processor its own space, instead of squishing it flat under the fabric. Nothing complicated, the hat just works around the implant instead of fighting it.

For a closer look at the styles made for compatible behind-the-ear processors, browse the EarFree hat collection.

Wind and busy days bring their own challenges

Wind is its own problem too. Anyone with a cochlear implant knows what wind does to the microphones, that constant roaring, rushing noise. The Wind Hat was designed to block wind noise so cochlear implant wearers can hear outdoors. I tested it myself, including on some genuinely windy days at the coast, because I did not want to guess whether it worked.

Kids need this too, honestly probably more. Playgrounds, school, sports, running around outside, parents want their child comfortable, with the processor secure, accessible, and easy to get to. That is why there are kids’ versions too, hats and headbands both.

Five years, one simple point

It has been five years of making these now. The reason has not changed, sometimes a small change to how something is built makes an everyday thing a lot less annoying.

Being able to just put on a hat without thinking about your implant?

That is really the whole point.

Find a more comfortable fit.

Explore EarFree headwear designed around the everyday needs of cochlear implant wearers.

Shop EarFree

Frequently asked questions

Why can a regular hat be difficult with a cochlear implant?

A behind-the-ear processor sits behind the ear, with microphones that need to remain uncovered and a coil that needs to stay connected. An ordinary hat can shift the processor, muffle the microphones, or create an uncomfortable fit.

How does an EarFree hat make room for a processor?

EarFree hats have an opening and a small external pocket that give a compatible processor its own space rather than squishing it flat under the fabric.

Are there EarFree options for children?

Yes. EarFree offers kids’ hats and headbands for everyday play, school, sports, and time outside.