I use a shotgun for wingshooting.
Of course, I refuse to shoot a ported gun, and I do wear ear protection when there's any echo, etc. But out in the open in the field, my 20 is not loud to the shooter. The 12 isn't bad, either. A gun next to me is a LOT louder than my own gun. That's when I'm a lot more likely to wear plugs.
Depends on the terrain, the load, etc. I will use hearing protection when it's the better alternative.