I have had my trusty ol' DC10-20's since 1987. For more comfort I use Gel seals + a cloth cover. The covers are washable and are a very good idea for warmish conditions.. .I have about 3300 hours in piston a/c including the horrendously noisy Islander and I have no appreciable hearing loss (apart from aging etc). To further reduce the noise I have also used ear plugs with the head set. Works a treat, shouldn't need it though when in a cherokee/C152 etc.. .Are they tough? You bet they are. I wouldn't use any thing else. My hearing is too valuable.