Clickers & Hoops: Sizing, Fit, and Tips
Clickers and hoops are some of the most versatile pieces of piercing jewellery. Whether you're styling a helix, upgrading a healed lobe piercing or choosing a clicker for your septum or nostril, the right size can make all the difference to both the look and the fit.
If you've ever wondered "Will an 8 mm hoop fit my helix?", "Why doesn't my hoop look like it does in the photos?" or "What's the difference between a 16G and an 18G clicker?", you're not alone.
The truth is, there isn't a "one size fits all" answer. Your anatomy, piercing placement and the style you're aiming for all influence which size will fit best.
In this guide, we'll explain how hoop sizing works, what internal diameter and gauge mean, and how to choose a clicker or hoop that's comfortable, flattering and right for your piercing.
Jump to a section
- Understanding Hoop Sizes
- What Is Internal Diameter?
- What Is Gauge?
- Standard Size Guide
- Snug vs Relaxed Fit
- Clickers vs Hoops: What's the Difference?
- How to Wear Hoops
- How to Adjust Hoops
- How to Wear Clickers
- How to Adjust Clickers
- FAQs
Understanding Hoop Sizes
Choosing the right hoop comes down to two simple measurements: internal diameter and gauge.
The internal diameter determines how close the hoop sits to your piercing, while the gauge refers to the thickness of the jewellery post. Together, these measurements affect how your hoop looks, feels and fits.
Even a difference of just 1 or 2 mm can noticeably change the overall appearance, which is why the same size won't suit everyone.
What Is Internal Diameter?
The internal diameter is the distance across the inside of a hoop or clicker, measured from one inner edge to the other.
This is the standard measurement used by most piercing jewellery retailers because it determines how the jewellery will sit around your piercing. A smaller internal diameter creates a snugger fit, while a larger internal diameter leaves more space between the jewellery and your ear or nose.
It's easy to confuse internal diameter with external diameter, but they're different measurements. The internal diameter measures the empty space inside the hoop, while the external diameter measures the overall size of the jewellery.
When choosing a new hoop or clicker, always use the internal diameter, as this is the measurement used throughout the piercing jewellery industry.
What Is Gauge?
The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewellery itself. Gauge can seem confusing at first because the numbers work in reverse. The smaller the number, the thicker the jewellery. For example, a 16G hoop is thicker than an 18G hoop.
Choosing the correct gauge is just as important as choosing the right diameter. Your jewellery should match the size of your healed piercing to ensure a comfortable fit.
20G (0.8mm): Similar in thickness to a standard butterfly-back earring.
18G (1.0mm): Slightly thicker than a standard earring post and commonly used for both lobe and cartilage piercings.
16G (1.2mm): A thicker post that's widely used for cartilage piercings.
Please Note: The correct gauge can vary depending on how your piercing was originally done, how it has healed and your individual anatomy. If you're unsure which gauge your piercing requires, a professional piercer can assess it for you.
Standard Size Guide
The guide below shows the gauges and internal diameters most commonly worn for popular ear piercings. Use it as a helpful starting point when choosing your jewellery, keeping in mind that the ideal size depends on your anatomy, piercing placement and whether you prefer a snug or more relaxed fit.
Please Note: This is a general sizing guide for reference only. Every piercing is unique, so the ideal size can vary from person to person. If you're unsure which size to choose, you may need to try more than one size or visit a professional piercer who can assess your piercing in person.
With Bling Tip: If you already have hoops or clickers that fit comfortably, measure their internal diameter and gauge before ordering new jewellery. Matching these measurements is usually the easiest way to achieve a similar fit.
Snug vs Relaxed Fit
The internal diameter of your hoop doesn't just affect the fit, it also changes how the jewellery looks when worn.
A snug fit sits close to your ear piercing with very little space around the piercing, creating a clean, understated look. A relaxed fit leaves a more noticeable gap, giving the hoop a more classic, statement appearance.
Neither option is better than the other. The right choice depends on your anatomy and the style you prefer.
Clickers vs Hoops: What's the Difference?
Although the terms clicker and hoop are often used interchangeably, they're not exactly the same.
A segment clicker is a type of hoop with a hinged clasp that clicks securely into place. They're especially popular for cartilage piercings, such as the helix, conch, tragus and daith, as they're easy to insert and remove while providing a secure fit.
A hoop is a broader term that describes any circular piece of jewellery. Traditional hoops are commonly worn in lobe piercings and may feature a butterfly-back fastening or a continuous seamless design, although they can also be worn in other healed piercings.
With Bling Tip: Whether you choose a clicker or a hoop, sizing is measured in the same way using the internal diameter and gauge.
How to Wear Hoops
How to Adjust Hoops
How to Wear Clickers
How to Adjust Clickers
FAQs
What is the most common hoop size?
There isn't a single hoop size that suits everyone, but 8 mm is one of the most popular internal diameters for many ear and nose piercings. The right size depends on your anatomy, piercing placement and the look you want to achieve.
How do I know what size hoop I need?
The easiest way is to measure a hoop or clicker that already fits comfortably, checking both the internal diameter and gauge. If you're buying your first hoop, our standard size guide is a useful starting point.
Can I wear a hoop in a healing piercing?
It's generally best to wait until your piercing has fully healed before changing to a hoop, unless your piercer recommends otherwise. Changing jewellery too soon can irritate the piercing and delay healing.
What's the difference between a clicker and a hoop?
A clicker is a type of hoop with a hinged segment that clicks securely into place, making it easy to open and close. Traditional hoops, such as seamless rings or captive bead rings, use different fastening methods but are also available in a range of gauges and diameters.
Can I use the same hoop size for different piercings?
Not always. Different piercings often require different diameters and gauges depending on where they're located and how they were pierced. Even two people with the same piercing may wear different sizes.
What if I'm between two sizes?
If you're deciding between two diameters, think about the look you want to achieve. A smaller diameter creates a snugger fit, while a larger diameter gives the hoop a little more space and movement.
