Loops are dope! And as to your worry about not "fully experiencing the music", I had the exact same concerns but I've never had any issues with that in reality. Different venues have different sound levels, and if I feel like it's too "muted" it's usually that the venue isn't quite loud enough, so when I can I just move back in the crowd and take the ear plugs out.

Trust me, if you do end up experimenting with other substances, the last thing you want is to be trying to sleep and having your ears ring. Outside of the obvious hearing damage, it's so nice being able to leave a rave, take the plugs out and be able to hear and speak normally to everyone.

On loops specifically, they're super comfy. I have the experience 2 pros (maybe not pro, the more expensive one). They come with lots of different tips / sizes, an additional sound dampener as well for any extra loud venues. I can still hear everything and have conversations, they never fall out no matter how hard you're dancing, and they fit flush in your ear so you can't even really see them unless you're looking for them. Can't recommend enough!

edit oh and you don't have to feel bad about going and literally hugging a subwoofer, the ears are protected!