Abstract: A loop-controlled slide needle for the forming of loops by a loop forming textile machine, comprising a shaft, a hook integral with one end of the shaft, the hook having a tapered free end, the shaft tapering in the plane of the hook at the juncture of the shaft and the hook, a longitudinal groove formed in the shaft, and a slide bar slidably mounted in the groove for movement between one position in which the slide bar closes the hook and another position in which the slide bar leaves the hook open, the slide bar having an end which faces the free end of the hook and which has a recess for receiving the tapered end of the hook when the hook is closed by the slide bar.