Hoop Earring Closures Explained
Hoop earrings are a jewellery staple and remain one of the most popular earring styles across all ages. From simple sleeper hoops to diamond-set statement designs, most jewellery collections include at least one trusted pair of hoops — and often several.
While size, metal and style are usually the first considerations when choosing hoop earrings, the type of closure is just as important. Many customers have a clear preference based on comfort, ease of use or dexterity, and once you know which fitting works best for you, it often becomes the deciding factor.
Closures are particularly important with hoop earrings because they are one of the styles most commonly worn for long periods — and often slept in. Comfort, security and practicality all play a role, especially if you wear your hoops daily.
In this guide, we explain the different types of hoop earring closures, how they work, and what each is best suited for — from small sleeper hoops to larger statement designs.
Types of Hoop Earring Closures
Tube Closure (Endless Hoop)
This type of closure creates a smooth, seamless look and is one of the most classic hoop earring fittings. A fine curved wire at one end of the hoop fits neatly into a hollow tube at the other end, forming a continuous circle.
These are often referred to as endless hoops or spring closures, and are widely used across all hoop sizes.
Why choose a tube closure?
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Very neat, uninterrupted appearance
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Secure once in place
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Comfortable for long wear and sleeping
They can be a little fiddly to insert, particularly with very small hoops. The easiest method is to open them gently sideways rather than pulling them apart. Once in, many people simply leave them in and forget about them.
This closure is commonly used in starter earrings and sleeper hoops, making it ideal for active lifestyles and everyday wear (provided the hoops aren’t so large that they may catch).
Hinged Top Closure
A hinged top closure features a small hinge and post which opens and closes for easier insertion. This makes them simpler to put on than endless hoops, particularly if you struggle with fine fittings.
Because of the more intricate mechanism, hinged hoops are often slightly more expensive to produce than tube closures. With very fine or delicate designs, extra care is needed as hinges can be more fragile than in heavier hoop styles.
Why choose a hinged top closure?
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Easier to put on and remove
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More forgiving for less nimble fingers
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Still neat and secure
These are a popular alternative for customers who love the look of sleepers but prefer something easier to manage.
Post Fitting (Butterfly Back)
Post fittings on hoop earrings work in the same way as stud earrings, using a straight post secured with a butterfly (pushback) clasp.
They are ideal for small to medium hoops and everyday wear, although they are not usually comfortable to sleep in due to the post and butterfly at the back of the ear.
Why choose a post fitting?
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Familiar and easy to use
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Adjustable comfort (the butterfly can sit slightly looser if needed)
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Secure for day wear
These fittings are commonly used where simplicity and ease are a priority.
Snap Closure / Click Closure
Snap closures (also known as click closures) are widely used in hoops and huggie earrings. The hoop opens on a hinge and closes with a clear “click” once in place.
Because they open wider than endless hoops, they are generally easier to insert into the ear piercing and offer excellent security.
Why choose a snap closure?
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Very easy to put on
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Secure and reliable
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Ideal for huggies and smaller hoops
This is one of the most popular modern hoop closures for everyday wear.
Saddle Back Closure
Saddle back closures feature a hinged lever post that clicks into a small cradle or “saddle” at the back of the hoop. They are sometimes referred to as push-fit fasteners.
These fittings are often used on flat-profile or heavier hoop earrings, including many Creole designs. They provide excellent support and are particularly suited to larger or weightier earrings.
Why choose a saddle back closure?
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Extremely easy to insert
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Very secure
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Ideal for heavier or wider hoops
While popular, they may not be the most comfortable option for sleeping, as the post can press into the skin behind the ear when lying down. We generally advise removing earrings at night — though we understand this isn’t always easy, particularly for customers with reduced dexterity.
(You can read more about Creole earrings and their distinctive designs in our dedicated guide here.)
Omega Back Closures
Omega backs are a wonderfully practical but surprisingly underused earring fitting. They combine the security of a post with a hinged support at the back, similar in feel to clip-on earrings.
They are most often used on smaller, wider hoops or huggies, where additional support improves comfort and balance.
Why choose omega backs?
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Extremely easy to put on
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Very secure
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No fiddly earring backs to lose
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Excellent support and comfort
Because of their more intricate design, omega backs are usually found on higher-quality sterling silver or gold earrings rather than very lightweight styles.
Choosing the Right Hoop Closure
The best hoop earring closure for you will depend on:
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Comfort
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Dexterity
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Whether you wear your earrings continuously
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Personal preference
Many customers choose their hoop earrings based on closure type first, followed by size and style — and once you know what works for you, it makes future choices much easier.
If you’d like to explore other types of earring fittings beyond hoops, including studs and drop earrings, you may also enjoy our guide to earring backs and their pros and cons, as well as our article on threader earrings.
We’d love to know — do you have a favourite hoop earring closure, and why? Feel free to share in the comments below.
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