Independent arborist gear picks · Typical prices shown, checked at the retailer

Representative photo for Kask SC3 Orange Ear Defenders (Super Plasma and Zenith) Hearing Protection

Representative photo. Check the retailer listing for the exact model, color and size.
Photo: Sharpening Chainsaw Blades by NCDOTcommunications, CC BY 2.0

Kask

Kask SC3 Orange Ear Defenders

Higher-attenuation helmet ear defenders for Kask Super Plasma and Zenith.

$45 Typical price. Retail prices change, so check today's price before you buy.
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  • Mounts to Kask Super Plasma and Zenith helmets
  • More attenuation than the SC1
  • Flips up to a rest position
  • Replaceable cushions
  • Orange color for easy ID

SafetyGround

The Kask SC3 ear defenders are orange helmet-mounted earmuffs for the Super Plasma and Zenith, and the higher-protection choice in Kask's range. They suit crews that spend long days around saws, chippers and stump grinders.

When to step up to the SC3

Hearing damage builds from long exposure, not just loud moments. If you are feeding a chipper, running a saw on the ground all day or working next to a grinder, more attenuation makes sense, and that is where the SC3 fits.

The trade-off is a slightly bulkier muff than the SC1. Climbers who care most about weight sometimes pick the SC1; ground crews often go with the SC3. Check the rating printed on the product against your noise levels.

Orange also makes it easy to tell which helmets on a crew carry the higher-protection muffs. Because they mount to the helmet rather than a headband, they stay put when you bend to feed brush or look up to watch a climber, and they are always there when the machine starts.

Fit, care and replacement

Make sure the muffs seal fully around your ears. Glasses arms, hats and hair under the cushion all reduce protection, so keep the seal clean. Wipe the cushions after sweaty days and replace them and the foam inserts when they harden, crack or flatten.

Check that the SC3 is listed as compatible with your helmet before ordering. Noise exposure from saws, chippers and grinders adds up quickly, so wear hearing protection whenever the equipment is running. More options are in our hearing protection section.