The Howard Leight AirSoft Corded Ear Plugs, model R01521 (UPC 033552015215), are reusable, high-visibility hearing protection devices designed for adult users in shooting, industrial, and general high-noise environments. This configuration includes 2 pairs of blue ear buds with an orange cord, configured to be worn behind the neck, with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 27 dB when properly fitted.
Noise Reduction and Performance
The AirSoft corded ear plugs provide a 27 dB NRR, offering effective attenuation for many common high-noise situations such as indoor and outdoor shooting ranges, workshops, manufacturing lines, and construction or landscaping work. When correctly inserted, the multi-flange design helps form a stable acoustic seal in the ear canal, allowing users to reduce noise exposure while still being able to hear important signals or speech in many environments.
Because these are multiple-use ear plugs (not single-use disposables), they are suitable for regular users who want a balance of comfort, long-term value, and consistent performance.
Construction and Materials
Howard Leight AirSoft ear plugs use a soft, pre-molded polymer rather than traditional compressible foam. This design focuses on durability, cleanability, and low in-ear pressure:
Plug material: Soft, durable polymer designed for repeated use
Surface: Smooth, non-irritating, easy to clean with mild soap and water
Color: Blue ear buds with a contrasting orange cord for high visibility
Cord: Flexible, lightweight cord designed for behind-the-neck wear
The smooth surface helps resist dirt and debris and allows for easier cleaning, which is important for reusable ear plugs used over multiple days or shifts.
Multi-Flange Ear Bud Design
The AirSoft series is known for its pre-molded, multi-flange “ear bud” design instead of traditional roll-down foam. Each plug has multiple soft flanges that progressively conform to the ear canal, helping to create a reliable and comfortable seal.
Key design details:
Multi-flange profile designed to fit a range of adult ear canal sizes
Low-pressure seal to reduce the feeling of “fullness” and improve long-term comfort
Firm central stem that provides a grip point for insertion and removal
Rounded edges and smooth transitions to minimize irritation during extended wear
This style eliminates the need for rolling with the fingers, which can be advantageous in environments where hands are dirty or gloved.
Corded “Behind the Neck” Configuration
These ear plugs feature an orange cord that connects both blue ear buds and is intended to be worn behind the neck. This configuration supports:
Convenient temporary removal: Ear plugs can hang around the neck between noise exposures
Reduced loss and misplacement: The cord helps prevent plugs from being dropped or forgotten
Quick reinsertion: Easy to re-fit ear plugs when returning to loud areas
The high-contrast blue-and-orange color scheme also makes it easy for supervisors and safety personnel to visually confirm that hearing protection is being worn.
Fit, Sizing, and Intended Users
The Howard Leight AirSoft Corded Ear Plugs R01521 are specified for adults and offered in a “one size fits most” pre-molded design. Because the plugs are not foam, proper fit depends on gently inserting the flanged tip into the ear canal until a comfortable seal is achieved.
General fitting guidance:
Reach over the head and pull the ear gently upward and outward to straighten the ear canal.
Insert the blue ear bud with a slight twisting motion until the flanges are seated comfortably.
Repeat for the other ear and adjust cord length behind the neck as needed.
A correct seal is essential to achieve the rated 27 dB NRR; if the plugs feel loose or noise reduction seems minimal, they should be reinserted or refitted.
Applications
These corded AirSoft ear plugs are suitable for a wide range of high-noise environments, including:
Shooting sports (indoor and outdoor ranges)
Industrial and manufacturing facilities with machinery noise
Construction and demolition sites
Landscaping and power equipment operation
General high-noise events, concerts, motorsports, and more, where reusable hearing protection is appropriate
Their reusable design, multi-flange fit, and visual color contrast make them well suited for both individuals and safety programs that require visible, durable hearing protection.
Hygiene, Reuse, and Storage
Unlike single-use foam plugs, AirSoft ear plugs are reusable when properly cleaned and stored:
Cleaning: Wash ear buds with mild soap and warm water, then allow to air-dry completely before reuse.
Inspection: Check for cracks, stiffness, or damage to the flanges or cord; replace if any wear is evident.
Storage: Keep in a clean case or in the original packaging when not in use to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.
Over time, the soft polymer may harden or become worn; at that point, ear plugs should be discarded and replaced to maintain comfort and attenuation.
Packaging and Product Identification
This specific retail pack is configured as:
Quantity: 2 pairs of reusable corded ear plugs
Color: Blue ear buds with orange cord
Type: Corded, behind-the-neck, pre-molded ear buds
Target user: Adult, one size fits most
Catalog and inventory details:
Brand: Howard Leight (by Honeywell)
Series: AirSoft (pre-molded ear plug line)
Model / Part Number: R01521
UPC: 033552015215
Noise Reduction Rating: 27 dB
Technical Summary
Product Type: Corded, reusable pre-molded ear plugs
Brand: Howard Leight
Series: AirSoft
Model: R01521
Noise Reduction Rating: 27 dB (when properly fitted)
Material: Soft, pre-molded polymer (multi-flange ear bud design)
Cord Style: Behind-the-neck orange cord connecting blue ear buds
Color: Blue plugs with orange cord for high visibility
User Group: Adult, one size fits most
Pack Size: 2 pairs per retail package
This neutral, technical description highlights the key performance, design, and catalog attributes of Howard Leight Corded Ear Plugs Air Soft Foam 27 dB Behind The Neck Blue Ear Buds with Orange Cord Adult 2 Pair R01521 033552015215, suitable for use in safety catalogs, online stores, and hearing protection product listings.
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