Those ARE civilian <grin> - the military just uses them. I remember when we handed out those awful pink waxed cotton wool plugs to GIs who forgot their issued plugs... The foam ones are much nicer to use.

I carry a fitted set of triple-flange plugs in my kit and in my briefcase (They offer the best attenuation of all ear plugs but MUST fit properly and must be inserted properly). Even when I'm flying commercial, I use the earplugs. Too many unexpected loud noises to ignore the ones you can attenuate... I like my hearing. And concerts - impossible to enjoy without earplugs nowadays - pity. Everyone plays too loudly.

I also carry one or two of the "disposable" foam type for others - a habit that hangs on from when my kids were too small to use properly fitted earplugs. Usually the simple E.A.R. type, but lately I have the type with a keeper cord embedded - they are harder to lose. And the type I have are easily cleaned with an alcohol wipe, so I ask for them back...

Interesting thread. I naturally have earplugs with me all the time, but I never give it any thought - it's just a habit. A good case could be made that they are a useful item to include in urban EDC.