I find these MSA protectors very comfortable and well made. The gel earcups do a lot to eliminate "brain squeeze" along with the adjustable headband. They are on the expensive end, but I like em.
Howard Leight (sp?) Impact Sport Muffs. I use them extensively. Same set of batteries have been in them for a few years now. Should probably swap them out, but they are still working just as designed so its either or.
Look @ Decibel Defense. They have a high decibel rating, are comfortable, reasonably priced (around $30), sells on Amazon.
I’m on my second pair of these...I had the first pair for 10 years and wore them almost weekly shooting IDPA and as a law enforcement officer during training and qualifications. Very comfortable and great quality at a reasonable price.
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What your are going through is exactly what my questions were a few months ago... right down to the tension being too tight..... The good news is you really dont have to spend a lot to get effective hearing protectors. The bad news is you will have to visit retailers to try them. My head (i suppose), is a little large, so I did what I am recommending, and still could not find a comfortable set... I have the advantage of not having to travel to the range to shoot, so I can shoot for short periods many times a week, therefore not dealing with the head crushers for long periods.... Think of them like shoes,... you wont know till you walk a while in them! good luck....
