This reminds me that I never replied to your original thread. Firstly, custom is definitely the best option for maximum sound isolation so you're on the right track.

There's two ways you can go with custom. You can get either custom tips that you can use with your IEM of choice, or you can get full blown CIEMS. Obviously either route will require getting an impression done at an audiologist, but that's not too expensive. If you decide to go the CIEM option just keep in mind that they have basically zero resale potential. Sorry but I can't recommend you any specific pairs of CIEMs because I've never had an interest in picking any up. The main downside of tips is that the IEM sits a bit further out from your ear (if you care what others think).

Also if it were me I'd blow my entire budget on the study/whatever else IEMs because they're the pair you'll be able to appreciate the output with. I'd even be keeping an eye out for second hand IEMs. You can get some really nice audio gear well beyond your budget cap if you're happy to shop used, and audiophiles tend to be way more trustful than someone selling their used (not used for mining!!!) vega 64 w/o receipt.

I skate/run with some trash $4 philips buds that were all the rage on budgetaudiophile like 5 years ago and they honestly aren't that bad. I actually prefer them over my se425s for any outside fitness stuff because I'm more aware of my surroundings as the rubber tips don't isolate any where near as well and things like wind noise, cars, etc are loud enough to hide a majority of the difference in sound quality anyway.

Anyway, gl.The research grind for this type of shit can be an overwhelming time sink but at least you know it'll be years before you ever have to do it again LMAO

Thank u very much sir.

I haven't seen anything wrong with the Etymonics so I've reordered them but I'm still open to the idea of CIEMs, mainly looking at customears and Jerry Harvey atm. Im doing my studying now so I dont have time to research some more so I ordered it with intent to send it back if I think something else is better.

The earphones sticking out won't be an issue because the study pair is never gonna leave my desk. I think I like the idea of getting like really expensive ones and even getting £20 basic ass skate ones in all honesty because I'll never really care about them whilst skating

edit: work colleague's boyfriend was gonna sell me Weston W40s for £230 yesterday but I turned him down for the Etymotics which im paying £240 for. The Jerry Harveys look good because they have a lotta good reviews, used by pros, have 3 speakers etc

Edit: Just thinking, would IEMs be advantageous for TF2 also?

Cant speak much about IEM's since I havent explored it alot but I have Fiio FH5 and I'm very happy with them. As for tf2 I dont think audio is super important. I think as long as the bass is not overwhelming and the imaging and soundstage is decent you are fine. I dont think IEM give you an advantage in tf2 over regular headphones simply because headphones have bigger drivers for potentially better imaging.

I got the Etymotic ER4XR and they sound nice and block like 90% of the sound but 10% is still there which is ok for studying but not the best option. I was thinking of getting something like what they were using on the big insomnia stages so they couldnt hear the casters

i think they have earphones underneath the headsets (that block sound) and thats the setup im trying to replicate here

do they use these? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Peltor-H540A-411-SV-Optime-III-Muffs/dp/B078GG3LC3