Taking Kids to Car Races & Airshows: Hearing Protection Guide
Kids at car races & airshows:
a parent's hearing guide
Engines and jet flyovers are some of the loudest things a family can hear on a day out. Here's how to keep little ears protected from the first warm-up lap to the final flyby.
Quick answer: Yes, bring hearing protection for every child, including newborns. Race cars at trackside and jet flyovers can exceed 120 dB, far above the 75 dB guideline for infants. BANZ Baby Earmuffs (newborn to 2 years) and Kids Earmuffs (2 years and up) are independently tested to NRR 26 dB.
How loud is it?
| Sound | Typical level | Unprotected child? |
|---|---|---|
| Normal conversation | about 60 dB | Safe |
| Crowd and PA announcer | 85–100 dB | Too loud for babies |
| Aerobatic propeller planes | around 100 dB | Too loud |
| Race cars at trackside | 120 dB+ | Dangerous |
| Military jet flyover | 120–140 dB | Dangerous |
Levels vary with distance, venue and vehicle. Closer is louder, so seat choice matters as much as gear.
Which earmuffs for which age?
Newborn – 2 years
Soft, low-pressure headband that sits on the sides of the head, not the soft spot. Low profile, so babies can nap in them between sessions.
Shop Baby Earmuffs2 years and up
Adjustable headband that grows with your child, with plush cushions for a pressure-free seal through a full race or show.
Shop Kids EarmuffsNot sure which size? Compare Baby vs Kids earmuffs.
Race day and airshow tips
- Put earmuffs on before the engines start. Warm-ups, practice laps and engine run-ups are loud too, and it's easier than calming a startled child.
- Keep them on between passes. A jet can come round again with little warning, and race cars pass every few seconds.
- Choose your spot. Seats higher up or further from the track, pit lane or flight line are noticeably quieter.
- Check the seal. Move hair, hat brims and glasses arms out from under the cushions. See the 60-second fit guide.
- Plan quiet breaks. Find a spot away from the noise for snacks, feeds and resets.
- Check the levels. The free BANZ Protect app shows live noise levels, so you know when protection matters most.
What to pack
- Earmuffs for every child, packed at the top of the bag
- UV400 sunglasses for tarmac, bleacher and sky glare. Looking up at planes means looking toward the sun
- UPF 50+ sun hat and sunscreen. Racetracks and airfields have little shade
- Water, snacks and a stroller shade for long days outdoors
The Baby Earmuffs + Sunglasses Gift Set pairs NRR 26 dB earmuffs with UV400 baby sunglasses, and costs less than earmuffs on their own.
Shop the setCommon questions
Are car races too loud for babies?
Without protection, yes. Race cars at trackside can exceed 120 dB, well above the 75 dB guideline for infants. With properly fitted baby earmuffs and a seat away from the track, many families bring babies to races.
What age can kids go to an airshow?
Children of any age can attend with hearing protection. BANZ Baby Earmuffs are designed from newborn, and Kids Earmuffs from age 2. Put them on before the flying starts and keep them on between passes.
Do earmuffs work for jet and engine noise?
Yes. BANZ earmuffs are independently tested to NRR 26 dB, which substantially reduces engine and jet noise when worn with a good seal. For the loudest moments, move further from the flight line or track as well.
What should kids wear at a racetrack or airshow?
Earmuffs, UV400 sunglasses, a UPF 50+ sun hat and sunscreen. Most venues have little shade, and kids spend a lot of time looking up toward the sun.
Can my baby nap at a race or airshow?
Yes. BANZ Baby Earmuffs are soft and low profile, so babies can nap in them. Check the fit whenever your baby shifts position.