In a world where people are increasingly choosing experiences over material possessions, the importance of enhancing these experiences cannot be overstated. Millennials, who now constitute the largest spending cohort, are at the forefront of this shift. They are driven by the pursuit of happiness, and research indicates that investing in experiences rather than possessions leads to more immediate happiness. This trend has given rise to innovative brands like Loop Earplugs, co-founded by Maarten Bodewes and Dimitri O, who recognized a gap in the market and decided to change the way we hear and experience the world.
Loop Earplugs, a Belgian direct-to-consumer brand, was born out of the founders’ shared love for nightlife and live music, along with a common struggle with tinnitus, a condition characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing noise in the ears, often caused by exposure to loud sounds. Dissatisfied with the earplugs available in the market, the co-founders embarked on a journey to create a product that could provide the perfect blend of protection, comfort, and style. Their vision was to cater to the needs of concert and festival-goers, and in 2016, Loop was established.
The brand quickly gained recognition, with The New York Times hailing it for producing “the best earplugs for concerts.” However, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced a pause on large gatherings, the co-founders adapted to the changing landscape. They expanded their customer base to include those seeking better sleep, enhanced focus, and more. Today, Loop offers a comprehensive product line designed to help people “live life at their volume,” regardless of the situation.
Loop’s product offerings cater to various scenarios. The “Experience” earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality, making them ideal for live music and events. “Engage” earplugs are designed to take the edge off at social gatherings or during parenting responsibilities. “Quiet” earplugs block out noise to facilitate deep, restful sleep.
The brand’s commitment to innovation was recently showcased with the launch of their latest product, Loop Switch. This three-in-one earplug set allows users to effortlessly switch between “Experience,” “Engage,” and “Quiet” modes with a simple twist. Maarten Bodewes, co-founder of Loop Earplugs, emphasized the user’s ability to fine-tune their auditory experience throughout the day, offering three distinct attenuation levels, each with its unique acoustic characteristics. Whether eavesdropping on conversations, jamming to music, or seeking serenity and focus, Loop Switch provides total confidence and control.
To put Loop Earplugs to the test, I had the opportunity to experience their products during an evening in New York City. Each pair comes in a variety of colors and offers four different sizes, ensuring users find the perfect fit. The “Engage” earplugs were ideal for a lively dinner at a Mexican restaurant in the Theater District. Providing up to 16 dB of filtered noise reduction, these earplugs allowed for a focused conversation while minimizing surrounding chatter and background noise.
Transitioning to the “Experience” earplugs for a performance of Hamilton on Broadway, I observed a crisp and softer quality to the music and voices. The 18 dB of noise reduction effectively eliminated audience chatter, creating an immersive experience. The Loop Switch’s “Experience” mode replicated this effect. Finally, I used the “Quiet” mode on Loop Switch to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep in a bustling New York City hotel room. Remarkably, this setting reduced up to 26 dB of noise, facilitating a restful night’s sleep.
Maarten Bodewes highlighted that Loop Switch is not a replacement for their existing product range but builds upon it, responding to specific customer needs. The brand’s focus on innovation has been key to its success. To date, Loop Earplugs has sold over five million earplugs worldwide, with a presence in the U.S. and more than 150 other countries. In 2022, they achieved a remarkable 350% year-over-year growth, and they have ambitious plans for ten product launches in the current year. Bodewes also emphasized the importance of talent in their team, and they are actively looking to expand their team by adding 50 people by year-end.
Loop Earplugs is on a mission to empower people to choose how they experience the world around them without sacrificing the things they love. Their products are designed to supercharge experiences, whether you’re partying, sleeping, focusing, or traveling. Loop Earplugs is dedicated to amplifying your senses, ensuring that every moment feels like an upgrade, and you feel like your best self.
In a world where experiences reign supreme, Loop Earplugs is not just providing hearing protection; they are offering a gateway to a more enriching and fulfilling life. As the experience economy continues to thrive, innovative brands like Loop are set to play a pivotal role in shaping how we perceive and enjoy the world around us.
