AIf you’ve ever bought a crochet hook that should have been perfect then found yourself switching back to your old battered favourite after ten minutes, you’re not alone.
Crochet hooks are a bit like shoes: the “best” one is the one that fits you. Your grip, your tension, the yarns you use, the projects you love (amigurumi, garments, blankets, lace), and even how long you crochet in one sitting all change what “best” means.
This guide compares popular options you’ll see in many Canadian craft rooms Clover Amour, addiSwing, KnitPro Waves, Lantern Moon crochet hooks or bamboo, and a few other “worth considering” styles so you can choose with confidence, whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been crocheting long enough to own multiple “backup” hooks.
And because Joeriaknits is an online retailer of crochet hooks, knitting needles, with all the good extras (hello, notions and project bags handcrafted in Canada). I’ll also point out who each hook tends to suit so you’re not guessing.
Quick Comparison (At-A-Glance)
Here’s the “cheat sheet” version. After this, we’ll go deeper into what each hook feels like and who it suits.
Why “Ergonomic” Crochet Hooks Can Actually Matter (Without The Drama)
A crochet hook is a hand tool. Hand tools can contribute to fatigue when the grip is too tight or the handle is too small for long sessions, especially for makers who crochet for hours at a time.
Ergonomics research on hand tools consistently highlights handle diameter as a meaningful factor in how hard your hand has to work. Studies looking at handle design and manual effort show that changing handle diameter can affect muscle effort and performance.
You don’t need to overthink this, just know:
- If you find yourself pinching a slim hook very tightly, a thicker or cushioned handle may help you relax your grip.
- If you like precision and tight control, you may prefer a slimmer hook head with a more “direct” feel.
Bottom Line
Comfort isn’t a luxury. It can be the difference between crocheting for 20 minutes versus happily finishing “just one more row” for an hour.
How to choose the right crochet hook for your style
Before we review the brands, here are the four things that usually decide whether you’ll love a hook or quietly resent it.
1. Your Grip Style (Knife Vs Pencil)
- Knife grip (hook in palm): many crocheters enjoy ergonomic handles because the handle fills the hand more comfortably.
- Pencil grip (like holding a pencil): some still love ergonomic hooks, but others prefer a slimmer, straighter handle for control.
2. Your Tension (Tight, Medium, Loose)
- Tight crocheters often benefit from a smooth hook head (less snagging) and a handle that doesn’t force extra grip.
- Loose crocheters may prioritize control and a head shape that catches yarn reliably.
3. What You Crochet Most
- Amigurumi: you’ll notice hook comfort quickly because of repetitive motion and tight stitches.
- Blankets: long sessions make handle comfort a bigger deal.
- Lace: you may want precision and a finer tip.
4. Yarn Type
- Splitty yarns (some cottons, loosely spun yarns): look for a head shape that catches without splitting.
- Very smooth yarns a slightly grippier hook material can help you keep control.
Clover Amour Crochet Hooks (The “Easy To Like” Option)
If you’ve heard people say “Just get Clover Amour,” there’s a reason it comes up so often.
What They Are
Clover describes the Amour line as having a soft, non-slip grip designed to suit different crocheting styles. In practical terms, they feel comfortable in the hand, and the hook head tends to glide smoothly.
What I notice most about Clover Amour
- Comfortable grip for long sessions: the soft, non-slip handle is the headline feature.
- Smooth hook action: the hook head typically moves through stitches without catching, which can make your stitch rhythm feel more consistent.
Who Clover Amour is best for
- Beginners who want a hook that feels forgiving and comfortable quickly
- Crocheters who do longer sessions (blankets, garments, repeat-heavy patterns)
- Amigurumi makers who want comfort without losing control
Who might not love it
- If you prefer a very firm, minimal handle, the softer grip might feel a bit “thick” or less direct.
- If you strongly dislike colourful handles (some people just want everything neutral), Clover’s bright sizing colours are not subtle.
My Take
Clover Amour is one of the safest recommendations if you want one hook set that works for many projects and hands.
AddiSwing Crochet Hooks (The “Shape That Either Clicks… Or Doesn’t”)
addiSwing hooks are famous for their distinctive ergonomic shape.
What They Are
addi describes the ergonomic design as taking pressure off the hand, arm, and shoulders, and notes a long handle plus a shaped bulge for finger grip.
What addiSwing Feels Like In Real Life
- The handle is longer, so your hand placement can feel more supported.
- The shape encourages a certain grip position, which can be great if it matches how you naturally hold a hook.
Who addiSwing Is Best For
- Crocheters who prioritize comfort in longer sessions
- Makers who notice fatigue in the hand and forearm
- People who like a hook that “guides” their grip into a stable position
Who Might Not Love It
- If you want to shift your grip often, the shaped handle can feel too prescriptive.
- If you’re very particular about holding your hook a certain way, the handle might fight you.
My Take
addiSwing is worth trying if comfort is your top priority, but it’s not a guaranteed universal favourite because the handle shape is so specific.
Knitpro Waves (The “Comfort Meets Value” Workhorse)
KnitPro is well known in both knitting and crochet, and many Canadian makers already use KnitPro for interchangeable needles or circular sets, so Waves hooks are often a natural add-on.
What They Are
KnitPro presents Waves hooks as offering effortless glide and ergonomic handles with a good grip, designed to help you crochet longer without cramps.
What Knitpro Waves Does Well
- Comfortable handle grip: a good middle-ground feel supportive without being overly shaped.
- Smooth aluminium hook head: helps stitches move consistently.
- Broad sizing: useful if you bounce between yarn weights.
Who KnitPro Waves is best for
- Crocheters who want a comfortable everyday hook without overthinking it
- Makers who already like KnitPro tools (especially if you use their knitting needle sets)
- People who want a practical set for multiple projects
Who Might Not Love It
- If you dislike rubbery or soft-grip handles, you might prefer a firmer material.
- If you’re extremely sensitive to head shape, you may want to test one size before committing to a full set.
My Take
Waves is a strong “daily driver” choice, especially if you want comfort, range of sizes, and a straightforward feel.
Other crochet hook styles worth considering
Classic all-metal hooks (slim aluminium or steel)
These are the simple, traditional hooks many of us learned on.
Why People Keep Them
- Very precise feedback and stitch control
- Great for lace (especially steel hooks)
- Easy to pack and replace
The Trade-Off
Slim hooks can encourage a tighter pinch grip over longer sessions, which can lead to fatigue for some crocheters, one reason ergonomic handles have become so popular. Handle design and diameter can influence effort in hand-tool use.
Wooden or bamboo hooks
Wood feels warm and can be gentler in the hand. Joeriaknits carries the deluxe Lantern Moon crochet hooks made of ebony, one of the world’s most precious and valuable woods.
Why People Keep Them
- Comfortable temperature and feel
- Slight grip can help with slippery yarn control
The Trade-Off
If you like very fast glide, wood can feel slower (especially with certain fibres).
The “Best Hook” By Project Type (Quick Recommendations)
If You Mostly Crochet Amigurumi
- Prioritize comfort + control.
- Many makers love Clover Amour here because the grip stays comfortable while you work tight stitches.
If You Crochet Blankets Or Anything Big
- Prioritize handle comfort and “no hot spots” after an hour.
- addiSwing can shine for long sessions if the shape suits your grip.
- KnitPro Waves is also a strong all-rounder for extended crocheting.
If You Crochet Lace
- Prioritize precision.
- A classic slim hook (often steel for very fine work) may still be your best friend.
If You’re A Beginner Building A Sensible Toolkit
Start with one comfortable hook you’ll actually reach for, plus a few practical essentials:
- A favourite ergonomic hook (try Clover Amour or KnitPro Waves)
- Stitch markers, tapestry needle, and a measuring tape
- A project bag you’ll use (yes, crochet projects deserve nice bags too)
A Note For Canadian Shoppers: Build A Toolkit That Matches How You Craft
If you’re in Canada and you craft regularly, it’s worth building a set you genuinely enjoy using because that’s what keeps you making.
A lot of crocheters also knit (or bounce between the two), so it’s common to shop for:
- Crochet hooks and sets
- Circular needles and double pointed needles
- interchangeable needles / interchangeable needle sets (especially for sweaters)
- storage and organization (project bags, pouches, and the endlessly useful “little stuff”)
That’s where a shop like Joeriaknits fits nicely: you can build a cohesive, long-term toolkit with crochet hooks, knitting needles, and the accessories you actually reach for.
FAQs: Quick, Honest Answers
Are Expensive Crochet Hooks “Worth It”?
Sometimes. What you’re really paying for is:
- a hook head that glides and doesn’t snag
- a handle that fits your hand for longer sessions
- consistent sizing/finish
If a hook reduces fatigue, and you often crochet, it can be worth it simply because you’ll use it more.
Should I Buy A Full Set Or Try One Hook First?
- If you already know you love a brand (or you’ve tried a friend’s set), go for the set.
- If you’re unsure, try one size you use constantly (often 4.0 mm, 5.0 mm, or 6.0 mm for many projects) and test it for a week.
Does Handle Thickness Really Help?
For many hands, yes. Ergonomics research on hand tools highlights handle size/diameter as a factor that can influence grip effort. But it’s personal; some crocheters prefer slimmer handles for control.
Choose The Hook You’ll Actually Want To Pick Up
If you only take one thing from this comparison, let it be this: the “best” crochet hook is the one that makes you want to crochet more, not the one that looks best in a photo.
- Clover Amour is a consistently comfortable, easy-to-recommend choice with a soft, non-slip grip.
- addiSwing is a brilliant comfort option for many crocheters, especially for longer sessions if the shaped handle suits your grip.
- KnitPro Waves offers a practical blend of glide, grip, and everyday usability across many projects.
Ready to find your next favourite hook (and stock up on the bits that make crafting easier, like notions, and a cute project pouch)? Browse crochet hooks and accessories at https://joeriaknits.com/ and build a toolkit that fits your crafting style.