Susan Bates vs. Boye Crochet Hooks: What's the Difference and Which One to Choose?

Susan Bates crochet hooks are famous for their inline design, where the shaft and hook are aligned in a straight line. This design ensures a smoother and more consistent stitch, which many crocheters find helpful for precise control. If you’re looking for accuracy in your stitches, especially in tight or intricate patterns, the Susan Bates inline hook may be the ideal choice for you.

Another thing that sets Susan Bates hooks apart is their ergonomic, cushioned grip. While this feature may vary across different models, many Susan Bates hooks offer a soft, padded handle that helps reduce hand fatigue. This can make a big difference if you’re working on larger projects, like blankets or sweaters, where you’re crocheting for extended periods.

The Boye Crochet Hook Design: A Closer Look

In contrast, Boye crochet hooks are known for their tapered design. The hook and shaft aren’t perfectly aligned, which means the hook is a bit more pronounced compared to the inline style of Susan Bates. This design allows the yarn to slip off the hook easily, which many crocheters find beneficial for speedier work.

Boye hooks are also typically lighter in weight compared to Susan Bates, which can be a big advantage for crocheters who prefer a hook that feels less bulky and more nimble. If you're someone who likes to work quickly and prefers a smoother glide with your yarn, the Boye tapered hook might be the right option for you.

Which One Is Better for Beginners?

If you're new to crocheting, it’s important to choose a hook that feels comfortable in your hands and suits your style. Both Susan Bates and Boye hooks have their strengths, so it’s helpful to consider your preferences.

● Susan Bates hooks are great for beginners who want more control over their stitches. The inline design gives you the ability to keep your stitches consistent, which can be a great advantage when you’re just learning the ropes.

● Boye hooks, with their smoother taper and lighter feel, might be ideal for beginners who want to focus on building speed and comfort. While it’s easier to get yarn to slide off the hook, it might take a little more time to perfect the control.

Ultimately, it’s about what feels right for you. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, so feel free to test both types and see which one feels more comfortable for you.

Durability and Materials: What’s the Difference?

Both Susan Bates and Boye crochet hooks are made from durable materials, but there are slight differences:

● Susan Bates crochet hooks are often made from aluminum or steel, making them both lightweight and strong. The smooth aluminum finish ensures that yarn slides effortlessly without snagging. If you're using a variety of yarn types, the material consistency of Susan Bates hooks can be advantageous.

● Boye hooks are also made from aluminum or plastic, depending on the model. The aluminum models are similarly lightweight, while the plastic models offer a variety of colors. These can appeal to crafters who enjoy a more colorful and visually appealing hook, though the plastic hooks may not have the same durability as aluminum in the long term.

Both brands offer long-lasting hooks that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. It mainly comes down to whether you prefer the strength of steel and aluminum or the lighter weight and aesthetic appeal of plastic.

Comfort and Grip: Which One Feels Better?

When it comes to comfort, both Susan Bates and Boye have thought about ease of use, but there are a few key differences:

● Susan Bates hooks are often designed with an ergonomic grip. This feature helps reduce hand fatigue during long crocheting sessions. The soft grip on many of their hooks ensures you can crochet for hours without feeling discomfort.

● Boye hooks tend to have a slightly simpler grip, made from smooth plastic or aluminum, depending on the model. While this is perfectly fine for many crocheters, it may not be as comfortable for those who crochet for extended periods. However, the lighter weight of the Boye hooks makes them easier to hold for some people.

If comfort is a big factor in your choice, Susan Bates might have the edge, particularly for those with hand fatigue. But for shorter crochet sessions or if you prefer a lighter touch, Boye could be more suitable.

Which One to Choose: Susan Bates or Boye?

Both Susan Bates and Boye crochet hooks offer high-quality tools for crocheters, but the decision really comes down to your personal preferences:

● Choose Susan Bates if you value control and precision with your stitches. The inline hook design and ergonomic grip make them great for detailed work or if you're a beginner looking for more consistency in your stitch tension.

● Choose Boye if you’re looking for a lighter hook that allows for a faster crochet pace. The tapered hook design provides a smoother glide for yarn, and the lighter weight is perfect if you like to crochet quickly.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best hook for you will depend on your crochet style and preferences. Whether you go with Susan Bates or Boye, both brands offer high-quality crochet hooks that will help you complete your projects with ease.

For those of you who are looking to experiment with both brands, Mary Maxim offers a variety of crochet supplies, including Susan Bates and Boye hooks, to help you find your perfect match. 

Happy crocheting!