I've always had the kind of curtain rod rings that are just the ring, which always hang up when it gets to that half way mark on the rod, you would think it wouldn't be a big deal being that it is just slightly higher in that spot. But if you're short like me, you end up struggling to get it past that spot and can be aggravating. Not with these the little balls make all the difference and the curtain just glides right past making it smooth and effortless. Wish I would have found these years ago.  I love them and will never use any other kind.  Try them you won't be disappointed.