After using bog standard in-ear plugs for a couple of years to help me sleep better I decided to try the original Hibermate about a year ago having got fed up with regular ear infections caused by the in-ear plugs. The difference between the two was night and day (forgive the pun). Not only did the Hibermate ear muffs bring an end to the cycle of ear infections, I actually found it easier to wear, and the addition of using a sleeping mask was a revelation. The muffs were far more comfortable than I expected (even as a side-sleeper), and it suppressed noise levels to a point where I was able to get a good night's sleep - aided by the mask blocking out any light coming into the room.
One year in, and I needed to replace the sleeping mask so decided to upgrade to the new model. I've been using it for a few weeks now, and can report that it's a serious step up from the original. It's the same product that I already knew and loved, but the straps are far more robust, and the velcro fasteners are much easier to manage and to get feeling just right. The result is that the ear muffs sit perfectly over your ears and stay in place through the night no matter how much you toss and turn. And because the fastening system is so much better they sit nice and snug, dampening more noise than the original. The sleep mask is also a step up in quality, and because the straps are so easy to adjust, it's easier to get it fitted just right.
If you're looking at the product in the store and wondering whether it's worth either buying for the first time, or upgrading from an older product, I'd recommend that you give this a try - I'm definitely happy that I made the step over and then the step up.
