These replaced the decorative hooks that do not completely close ('2' or 'S' shaped). We wanted to use them, but the only bathroom with a shower curtain was the boys bathroom. They are not gentle opening and closing the curtain, so I needed something that would 'glide' across the curtain rod and not fall off.These work great for both needs. They glide very easily thanks to the tiny ball bearings (even though the previous 'S' hooks were starting to catch) and if you match the color (chrome, brushed silver, etc) to a similar finish on your curtain rod they actually look quite nice too. Very happy for the price.