Flare Calmer Pro Mini ・ ・ Ear Plugs Alternative ・ ・ Reduce Annoying Noises Without Blocking Sound ・ ・ Premium Version - Soft Reusable Silicone with Aluminum Core - Ice

I have small ear holes so I was sure these would be the size I needed but they're honestly too small. I felt like they fit a little better/more comfortably if I removed the aluminum core but that seems to also defeat the purpose of the Pro version.I also ordered a pair of the regular Calmer in the regular size - they're a little too big. I've seen some other reviews also saying the minis were too small so it looks like they would do well to make a medium size.Size and fit aside, I honestly am not sure if they help me, make it worse, or have little effect. Perhaps it is precisely the size and fit that would make all the difference. Fit could also be why I can sometimes hear them in my ears, especially when I chew - hearing the sounds inside my head/body amplified is definitely a con.I have ADHD and am a full-time musician. I thought these might help me hear myself and my ensemble better when playing for a very loud cocktail hour but haven't had a good opportunity to test that theory yet.I have found them a little helpful on days when I'm feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated and my partner or my students are being especially annoying. That could just be a placebo effect.I was really hoping for that "wow, this is a game changer" feeling but they don't seem to cause that reaction for me. Maybe I just haven't used them in the right setting yet. Maybe they just don't work great for me. Kinda bummed about it.I'll update if my experience changes.I do like that they are discreet. Even if you have them in a bright color I don't think they scream ear plugs so that's a definite pro.The pouch that comes with them is not great - it does shed little bits of material that stick the the plugs, and it's kinda springy so I found it would pop out of my bag when I was digging around for something else and made me very nervous I would lose them. I have some other ear plug containers so I'll see if any of them suit me better. I saw some say the pouch doesn't stay closed but it does if you slide the toggle on the cord.As for the value - if they work for you they're worth every penny, but kinda pricey if they don't work. No way to know until you try them.

They increased my tinitis horribly, and caused my ears to itch.

I have super small ear canals. I ordered the mini and they were way too small. There's not a great size guide and the pictures and directions don't show exactly how they are supposed to fit.