Fairly discreet. So I tried them and they were perfect for me and Im size 8. It is plastic but its super easy to move and adjust. I am also a clutz. Im 510" and 160 lbs, and a Large doesnt give me anything close to the roominess I want on top. It might reduce some mud that would get on you, but I could only expect about a 10% reduction. As others have noted, the instructions indicate the mounting screws and plugs are provided for a brick installation. I have been wearing these for years, they never disappoint. In addition, the sound quality is exponentially better with the Sennheiser. Also, the buckle was a little difficult.