3M X5A Ear Defenders 37 DB

The best set of defenders Ive used. Great for domestic or industrial applications. They are comfortable to wear and really cut out the unwanted noise.

These really do cut down the noise, I where them if I want a lie in on a Sunday morning! Best ones I've used ever. Comfortable and so much better than ear plugs for really cutting down on noise. Mac.

I have been using the 3M Peltor Optime 105 earmuffs for decades--and for the price, they work very well. However, after so many years of use, it was time for a new pair. I opted for the new 3M Peltor X5A model, and I must admit they are an improvement over the 105 model, and they should be, because they cost twice as much. First things first. The X5A does seem to block out more noise (at all frequencies) than the 105 model. They also seem to be made to a higher quality standard. They seemed a little tight when compared to my old 105 model, however, after having "gently" stretched them out a little bit, they are now very comfortable. I even tried gently squeezing them back together to make for a slightly snugger fit, and this worked well also. For what it's worth--I ... MoreI have been using the 3M Peltor Optime 105 earmuffs for decades--and for the price, they work very well. However, after so many years of use, it was time for a new pair. I opted for the new 3M Peltor X5A model, and I must admit they are an improvement over the 105 model, and they should be, because they cost twice as much. First things first. The X5A does seem to block out more noise (at all frequencies) than the 105 model. They also seem to be made to a higher quality standard. They seemed a little tight when compared to my old 105 model, however, after having "gently" stretched them out a little bit, they are now very comfortable. I even tried gently squeezing them back together to make for a slightly snugger fit, and this worked well also. For what it's worth--I believe I have an average sized adult male head with average size ears. In addition to their effectiveness in blocking noise and their overall build quality, I wanted them to fit over my "adult-sized male ears". Fortunately, they do--but just barely. If you have larger than normal sized adult (male) ears, this may be a problem. Also, it should be noted that this model is manufactured in Poland. At least it is not manufactured in China. To be perfectly honest, I have no idea whether or not items manufactured in Poland are of lesser or greater quality than that of China. In the end, is the X5A worth the extra cost over the 105 model? I would have to say yes, but only if you have to have the absolute best in hearing protection. If you simply want very good to excellent hearing protection at an excellent price--than I strongly suggest going with 3M's 105 model. With this said, I must add that my 105 model was made about twenty years ago and may be of better quality than today's 105 model. Also, my wife claims that when she compares my old 105's to the new X5A's, she can tell the difference in the overall fit and feel, as well as their improved hearing protection (the X5A being better).