Are Hoops and Huggies the Same? Exploring the Unique Differences and Which to Choose
Are Hoops & Huggies the same? Which one is better? Those are two questions we often hear at our boutique. The answer isn’t as simple as it may seem—which is why we’ve put together this short blog: Are Hoops and Huggies the Same? Exploring the Differences. While all huggies are technically hoop earrings, not all hoops are huggies. And when it comes to which is better, that’s truly a personal choice—but we hope this quick guide helps you decide!
Hoop earrings have to open at some point in order for them to be placed on an ear. A huggie is a hinged hoop earring where the post of the hoop is locked to the back of the hoop. Both are worn in pierced ears but the huggies have a hinge at the bottom of the earring that allows the post to open and close without an earring back.
A hoop is a circle, and while they have to open at some point to be placed on an ear, it’s the idea of the circle that has given them a meaning; a circle is infinite, like time. That’s why hoops are so symbolic! They have been around about as long as jewelry itself, dating as far back as the Bronze Age. But they have not only held their own in ancient history, they have also found a place in pop culture and street culture.
Hoop earrings – likely more than any other form of jewelry – are timeless, they have spanned cultures and ages, and likely will continue as a “trend” for centuries to come.
In a Huggie the post of the hoop is locked to the back of the hoop, closing the circle when the earring is clicked shut. They tend to be thicker & more comfortable than the standard hoop and can be slept in. They are also known as hinged hoop earrings or huggers.
Hoops vs. Huggies: The Key Differences
- Size: Hoops come in every size, from tiny to oversized statement pieces. Huggies are small and sit close to the earlobe, “hugging” it.
- Closure: Classic hoops close with a thin wire or latch. Huggies have a hinge that clicks shut, so no separate earring back is needed.
- Comfort: Huggies are thicker, smoother and comfortable enough to sleep in, which makes them easy to wear every day.
- Style: Hoops make more of a statement, while huggies are subtle and easy to stack with other earrings.
Which One Should You Choose for Kids?
For babies and young children, we usually recommend huggies or screw back studs. Huggies have no loose back that can fall off or be swallowed, and their small, snug fit keeps them from catching on clothing or hair. Many parents worry that a huggie will be too tight as their child grows, but in most cases the right size grows with them. Learn more in our guide on huggie earring sizes for kids. If you prefer studs, read why screw back earrings are perfect for kids.
For teens and adults, it is simply a matter of style. Choose huggies for an everyday, minimal look, or classic hoops when you want your earrings to stand out. Both look beautiful in 18K gold and are gentle on sensitive ears.
Ready to choose? Browse our 18K gold hoops and huggies, or see our hypoallergenic hoop earrings for kids and babies.
