Howard Leight R-01520 Corded Earplugs — NRR 25
$13.20
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.7/5WC Safety Review — Howard Leight R-01520 Corded Earplugs Best For: corded reusable flanged hearing protection at NRR 25 dB with a retention cord. Not For: non-noise hazards, or noise that ea...
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.7/5WC Safety Review — Howard Leight R-01520 Corded Earplugs
Best For: corded reusable flanged hearing protection at NRR 25 dB with a retention cord.
Not For: non-noise hazards, or noise that earplugs alone can't bring under ~85 dBA (add earmuffs).
Bottom Line: a solid corded reusable flanged plug at NRR 25 dB — the cord earns its keep on jobs where dropped plugs get lost.
Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team. Scoring reflects published NRR/specs, fit type, build quality and application fit. WC Safety did not laboratory-test this product.
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Howard Leight R-01520 Corded Earplugs Overview
The Howard Leight R-01520 Corded Earplugs are corded reusable flanged ear plugs from Howard Leight, rated NRR 25 dB. The permanent cord keeps the pair together so a plug isn’t lost, and lets you hang them around your neck between tasks. Start with our hearing-protection guide and what NRR means, then confirm the noise level you’re protecting against.
The Howard Leight R-01520 belong to the corded ear plugs range and the NRR 25 ear plugs group. They are reusable and washable across many shifts; for the trade-offs see foam vs reusable ear plugs.
What NRR 25 dB Means
NRR is a laboratory rating; NIOSH suggests derating it for real-world use. Here is how NRR 25 dB lines up with common environments (always confirm with a noise survey):
| Environment | Approx. noise | Fit for NRR? |
|---|---|---|
| Power tools / workshop (~95 dBA) | ~86 dBA after derating | Good fit |
| Heavy equipment / construction (~100 dBA) | ~91 dBA after derating | Add earmuffs |
| Manufacturing / plant floor (~90 dBA) | ~81 dBA after derating | Good fit |
| Firearms / impact (140 dB peak) | Impulse noise | Add earmuffs (dual) |
Who Should Buy the Howard Leight R-01520?
Buy them if you want reusable flanged hearing protection with a retention cord at NRR 25 dB. Consider another plug if you need a different level or style: compare AirSoft, SMF-30 SmartFit, LT-30. For the highest ratings see highest-NRR ear plugs.
Hearing protection only works when worn correctly for the full exposure. The NRR is a laboratory rating; real-world attenuation is typically lower, so OSHA and NIOSH recommend derating it when estimating protection. For very high noise — or whenever earplugs alone can’t bring exposure under about 85 dBA — wear them with earmuffs (dual protection). The Howard Leight R-01520 reduces noise; it does not eliminate it or protect against non-noise hazards.
Best Applications
Industrial & construction noise
Power tools, plants and construction work at sustained high noise suit a corded NRR 25 plug you won’t lose between tasks.
Shooting & range use
For range and shooting use, pair a high NRR with muffs for impulse noise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
NRR 25 dB protection · corded for loss prevention · washable, reusable · pre-sized flanges (check sizing if offered)
NRR 25 dB protection · corded for loss prevention · washable, reusable · pre-sized flanges (check sizing if offered)
Cons
bulkier than uncorded · requires cleaning · cord can snag in some tasks
bulkier than uncorded · requires cleaning · cord can snag in some tasks
Howard Leight R-01520 vs Other Corded Ear Plugs
| Ear plug | NRR / type |
|---|---|
| AirSoft | NRR 27 · reusable flanged |
| SMF-30 SmartFit | NRR 25 · reusable flanged |
| LT-30 | NRR 32 · single-use foam |
| FUS30S Fusion | NRR 27 · reusable flanged |
Howard Leight R-01520 vs the Alternatives
How they compare to close options:
- R-01520 vs AirSoft: AirSoft is NRR 27 (reusable flanged); the R-01520 is NRR 25 (reusable flanged).
- R-01520 vs SMF-30 SmartFit: SMF-30 SmartFit is NRR 25 (reusable flanged); the R-01520 is NRR 25 (reusable flanged).
- R-01520 vs LT-30: LT-30 is NRR 32 (single-use foam); the R-01520 is NRR 25 (reusable flanged).
Howard Leight R-01520 Quick Answers
Does the cord lower protection?
No — the cord is for retention only; the seal sets the attenuation.
Are the Howard Leight R-01520 washable?
Yes — rinse, dry and reuse.
Plugs or muffs?
Both for the highest noise; see ear plugs vs ear muffs.
Howard Leight R-01520 Specifications
| NRR | 25 dB (EPA / ANSI S3.19) |
| Type | Corded reusable flanged ear plugs |
| Material | thermoplastic/TPE |
| Reuse | Reusable and washable across many shifts |
| Sizing | Pre-sized flanges (check sizing if offered) |
| Metal-detectable | No |
| Brand | Howard Leight |
Fit & Sizing
The Howard Leight R-01520 are reusable flanged corded ear plugs. To fit them, push the pre-molded flanges gently into the canal until sealed; no rolling needed — the seal, not just the NRR number, is what protects your hearing. They are pre-sized flanges (check sizing if offered) and reusable and washable across many shifts. Browse more options in reusable ear plugs, the full corded ear plugs range, or all hearing protection.
Helpful Hearing-Protection Guides
- Best hearing protection
- What NRR (noise reduction rating) means
- Foam vs reusable ear plugs
- Corded vs cordless ear plugs
- Highest-NRR ear plugs
- Ear plugs vs ear muffs
- OSHA hearing conservation (1910.95)
Howard Leight R-01520 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NRR of the Howard Leight R-01520?
The Howard Leight R-01520 are rated NRR 25 dB (EPA-labeled per ANSI S3.19). Real-world protection is usually lower, so NIOSH recommends derating the NRR when estimating exposure.
Are the Howard Leight R-01520 corded?
Yes. The permanent cord links the pair so you don't lose a plug, and lets you wear them around your neck between tasks — the cord does not change the NRR.
Are the Howard Leight R-01520 reusable or single-use?
They are reusable and washable across many shifts.
How do I insert the Howard Leight R-01520?
To fit them, push the pre-molded flanges gently into the canal until sealed; no rolling needed. A proper seal is what delivers the rated protection.
Can I wash the Howard Leight R-01520?
Yes — rinse the flanges with mild soap and water, dry, and reuse.
Are the Howard Leight R-01520 metal-detectable?
No. For food or pharma lines where a lost plug must be detectable, see our metal-detectable ear plugs.
What size are the Howard Leight R-01520?
They are pre-sized flanges (check sizing if offered).
What noise levels suit NRR 25?
NRR 25 dB suits common industrial noise once derated; for very high or impulse noise, add earmuffs for dual protection. See what NRR means.
Do corded ear plugs reduce the NRR vs uncorded?
No. The cord is only for retention; the plug body and seal determine attenuation.
Are the Howard Leight R-01520 NIOSH/EPA labeled?
Yes — NRR 25 dB is EPA-labeled under ANSI S3.19. WC Safety sells authentic Howard Leight hearing protection through legitimate channels.
Can I buy the Howard Leight R-01520 in bulk or by the case?
Yes. Use the Request a Quote option for case and dispenser pricing on volume orders.
Should I choose ear plugs or ear muffs?
Plugs suit tight spaces, heat and all-day wear; muffs are faster on/off. Many high-noise jobs use both — see ear plugs vs ear muffs.
Written by Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial — industrial hearing-protection desk. Reviewed by the WC Safety Editorial Team. NRR and specifications sourced from manufacturer published data (EPA-labeled, ANSI S3.19). Compare the range in corded ear plugs or read our hearing-protection guide.
WC Safety is an independent PPE retailer and Amazon Associate; no paid placement. Follow your written hearing-conservation program and a professional fit/exposure assessment. General information, not medical advice.
Brand / Vendor
Howard Leight by Honeywell
Model / SKU
R-01520
Product Type
Ear Plugs
Price
$13.20 (Amazon)
Rating
4.7 / 5 — 10 reviews
Availability
Check current availability on Amazon
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Verified Buyer Reviews
Customer Reviews
★★★★☆4.5 / 5· 717 ratings on Amazon
★★★★★
They work!
These are the best earplugs! The string is nice so you don’t lose one. I used these at MIA airport, they are high quality and keep the noise of cargo planes out. I’ll definitely sleep better. The handles on them allow you to get them tight.
Verified Purchaser · June 1, 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Good Earplug Hearing Protection
This review is for Howard Leight by Honeywell SmartFit Corded Reusable Shooting Earplugs, 2-Pairs (R-01520), Orange with Blue. I purchased these because I was looking for earplugs that were easy to insert, didn't require time to expand in ear canal (foam ones take time to expand), and had a fabric cord. This was the only one that I found that matched those criteria. The plugs are good quality, and I like the fabric cord. They do a decent job at sound reduction, but 25 NRR is on the entry level side of noise reduction. I have only used these in conjunction with earmuffs. They do fit with earmuffs, but only if you have the earplugs fully seated. If you don't have them fully seated the earmuffs will push on the stems, and it will be uncomfortable. One of the things that I like with this style of earplug is the three separate seals. In order to get the full sound reduction all three need to be properly seated, but at least if one or two are you still getting some sound protection. These seem fairly durable and are easy to clean. The case only fits one pair, and I would have preferred two cases so that I could bring both earplugs, say for two people.On a side note, make sure to follow the directions on the pack of the packaging to get maximum hearing protection. It makes a big difference to insert these earplugs while pulling your ear back.
Verified Purchaser · October 15 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Comfortable, blocked out much 12 gauge firing
Comfortable, slip right in but don't pop out when you move. Used with 12 gauge tactical and no ringing, no problem!
Verified Purchaser · October 28 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★☆
Comfortable and good NR
I use these to hunt doves, they are very comfortable and easy to use, the only issue I've had is that if the string gets caught on something it pops out of the plug; it can be easily put back in, but if it falls to the ground without noticing it, the plug could be easily lost.
Verified Purchaser · June 3, 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great earplugs if they send the right ones!
With care these last a long time and seal well.
Verified Purchaser · January 24 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
blocks out noise great!
I use these for everything, from mowing my lawn to shooting firearms at my local range. then do a great job of protecting your hearing without obstructing all noises. theyre durable and fit perfect in my ears. i love the string that comes with them so can hang them around my neck when i pop them out of my ears
Verified Purchaser · September · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★☆☆
Pretty weak
Decent but the case is hardly a case and doesnt stay closed. Zero longevity.
Verified Purchaser · April 25, · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great Product
Being a day sleeper these ear plugs, after trying other brands, are perfect to drown noises (I sleep through the construction going on next door wearing them) while still being able to hear the phone ring. They last longer than other brands. I tie a knot on one side to distinguish right from left ear so each plug gives a better fit. After a month I'm still wearing my first pair. I'll definitely buy again!
Verified Purchaser · November 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great for the range.
Great for the range. The string is great for out door range when you keep taking them in and out helps have the rest around your neck.Easier to insert into the ear than the foam guys.
Verified Purchaser · June 29, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great
I recently had a superior semicircular canal dehiscence repaired, and my hearing is very sensitive. I've also got permanent "loud noise hearing loss," and get migraines from high-pitched sounds, vibrations, and changes in humidity, so having a pair of quality ear plugs close at hand at all times of the day has become very important. These plugs fit my ear canal very well and stay put. The cord is good, because sometimes I will plug only one ear at the movies, and intermittently plug the other ear when the action scene sound effects ramp up. Without the cord, it's a pain to keep track of where the second ear plug is. I use them while working on the sewing machine and riding the subway as well. The one time I bought the less expensive drugstore brand, the yellow conical plugs were not big enough to form a seal. It makes a difference to have a plug with a triangular shape. These plugs come with a good clear plastic case for each set, so the cord doesn't get tangled up.
Verified Purchaser · July 26, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
Showing 10 of 717 Amazon reviews.
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