What to look for when buying an emergency hiking whistle
While a hiking whistle might seem like a fairly simple tool to shop for, there are a few features to be aware of. At the end of the day, you need a loud whistle that will be durable given the way you hike. Here are a few features to weigh the importance of when buying an emergency signal:
Basic plastic whistles
Plastic hiking whistles are compact and easy to carry, and they emit a loud, high-pitched sound that can be heard over long distances. A lot of times a plastic rescue whistle will come free on an expensive backpack, but I suggest upgrading to a metal whistle or carrying a metal whistle as your primary and a plastic whistle as a backup or for a friend.
Metal whistles
Metal whistles are more durable than plastic whistles and may have a slightly different sound. They are often used by professional hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who require a more heavy-duty option. Yes, they’re more expensive, but they also do the job better and won’t get crushed like a cheap kids toy when throwing your backpack around.
SHOP FOR: Metal Emergency Whistle
2-Pack Plastic Emergency Whistles
Decibel level – What’s the frequency Kenneth?
The decibel level of an emergency whistle can vary depending on the specific design and construction of the whistle, for instance, whether it’s metal or plastic, pealess, or with a pea (see below).
For the most part, the highest decibel level for an emergency whistle is typically around 120 decibels (dB), which can be heard from a distance of up to two miles away in open terrain.
The distance at which an emergency whistle can be heard can depend on many different factors, including the design and construction of the whistle (for instance whether it’s metal or plastic, pealess or with a pea—see below), the ambient noise level, and the environment in which it is being used. As a general rule, a quality emergency whistle with a loudness level of around 120 decibels (dB) should be audible up to 2 miles away in open terrain, assuming no significant background noise.
Here are some general distance ranges for emergency whistles at different decibel levels, based on a typical open terrain scenario with little background noise. As you can see, there’s a big difference in how far you’ll be heard for different levels!
Emergency whistle decibel levels and audible distances
| Whistle Decibel Level (dB) | Approximate Distance Heard |
|---|---|
| 90 dB | Up to 0.25 miles |
| 100 dB | Up to 0.5 miles |
| 110 dB | Up to 1 mile |
| 120 dB | Up to 2 miles |
| 130 dB | Up to 3 miles |
| 140 dB or higher | Up to 4 miles or more |
Whistles with built-in compasses
Some hiking whistles also have built-in compasses, which can help you navigate your way out of trouble spots. These types of whistles are typically more expensive than basic plastic whistles. I think these are two different tools for two different reasons, but you can check out one of these combos here.
Whistles with built-in thermometers
Similar to whistles with built-in compasses, some hiking whistles also have built-in thermometers, which can help hikers monitor the temperature and weather conditions. Again…C’mon man.
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Whistles with lanyards
Most hiking whistles come with lanyards or cords that can be attached to backpacks, jackets, or belts, making them easily accessible in case of an emergency. Honestly, a quality emergency whistle should come with a lanyard.
SHOP FOR: Metal Emergency Whistle
2-Pack Plastic Emergency Whistles
To pea or not to pea? That is the question
When it comes to emergency whistles, there are two main types: pealess whistles and whistles with a pea. Honestly…you should only have a pealess whistle, and here’s why:
Pealess whistles
These whistles do not have a pea inside and instead rely on a specially designed chamber and shape to produce sound. Pealess whistles also work in a wider range of temperatures and conditions.
They are generally more reliable than whistles with a pea because they do not require air to pass through a small opening, which can become clogged with dirt or debris.
Whistles with a pea
These whistles have a small ball, or “pea,” inside that vibrates when air passes through it, producing sound. They are typically louder than pealess whistles and may have a distinct sound that is easier to recognize. However, they can be less reliable than pealess whistles in harsh conditions, as the pea can become stuck or frozen.
Hellraven Creek hike at Yellowstone National Park (Check out more Yellowstone guides here)
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