Product Review: Addi Swing Hook

When trying out a hook to review, I pay close attention to the feel of the hook in my hand, the ease in which it glides through the stitches, how my hand feels after I have been using it awhile, and lastly, the look and style of the hook. Then I pair these factors with the price of the hook to see if I would recommend it or not. So when I was given the opportunity to review the Addi Swing Hooks, with price points of about $13.50 per hook, I was skeptical that they would impress me enough to warrant the price tag. But … I was wrong. These hooks are amazing and I dare say that I am “hooked”!

These hooks are designed for comfort and I must say that they are the most comfortable hooks I have used. The handle is constructed of two complementary plastics: one colorful and soft, and the other, white and firm. They have just the right amount of flexibility, are lightweight, and fit very naturally in my hand. The hook itself grabs the yarn nicely and slides easily in and out of stitches. It does not snag or split the yarn at all. It allows me to crochet quickly and smoothly while keeping my stitches very even and uniform. Even after crocheting for a long period of time, my hands do not cramp up or get uncomfortable.

All the hooks are color coded by size, and the metric size is printed on the handle. I did find it a little confusing at first to find the size I wanted since I am so used to the US letter sizing. But after referring to a hook size chart a few times, I got to know which color and metric size most closely corresponded to the US letter size I needed.

The Swing Hooks are available in the following sizes: US A (2.00mm), B (2.50mm), C (3.00mm), D (3.25mm), E (3.50mm), 3.75mm, F (4.00mm), G (4.50mm), H (5.00mm), I (5.50mm), J (6.00mm), K (7.00mm), and L (8.00). Note, however, that all Addi hooks are manufactured to exact metric sizes and the US sizes listed are only an approximation. Therefore, as always, it is smart to work up a test swatch using the hook size closest to that recommended in your pattern in order to check your gauge before beginning a project.

I always like to do a little research on the companies of the products that I review, especially if I am recommending the product. I am as impressed with the Addi company as I am with the product. The Addi company is a family owned company located in Altena, Germany, and has been specializing in needlecraft tools for over 180 years. Each Addi hook undergoes over 20 steps in the manufacturing process and spends a large amount of time worked on by hand instead of by machine. Each Addi product features a lifetime guarantee from manufacturer’s defect.

Bottom line … although a little pricier than most crochet hooks, I think the Addi Swing Hook is well worth the extra cost. In a culture where cheap and disposable seem to be the way products are designed these days, it is refreshing to see a product that is so well made and a company that shows true pride in their product.