I haven't tried that. I did notice that Steve Jordan was using wood hoops the last time I saw him. Yes I do think it would improve the sound of your cross sticking. It is also important to find a brand and size of stick that works well for cross stick and find that one part of the stick where it sounds the best and be sure to always hit with that portion of the stick . I played country (against my will) for several years and got pretty damn consistent at cross sticking. Using the exact right part of the stick is key.