I have long been an Addi addict, but have trouble reading the numbers now. I started getting knit pro zing fixed circulars for the etched numbers but missed the oiled silk feel of my first loves. These combine the best of both. I favour short tips, and these are hassle free, easy to read and have beautifully slick tips. Also, they are black. I have several sets of interchangeable needles, these are surely going to be my new faves.