Unique ‘Narrow Oscillating Zone’ Design of the Warrior Noz 2 X Head
The Warrior Noz 2 X lacrosse head features an innovative ‘Narrow Oscillating Zone’ design that aims to optimize the flex and pocket placement of the head. This N.O.Z. technology incorporates advanced sidewall geometry and scoop design to focus the flex and rebound of the head into a narrower zone across the upper sidewalls.
Unlike traditional heads with flex extending across the entire width, the Noz 2 X concentrates flex into a narrower region right above the sweet spot. This results in more defined pocket channels, better ball control on passes and shots, and a quicker release. Warriors claims this tech also makes it easier to string consistent pocket placements.
By oscillating flex and rebound forces within a narrow zone, the Noz 2 X maintains stiffness in the lower sidewalls for added durability while allowing the upper sidewalls to flex for increased ball control. This differential flex represents a unique advancement in head design compared to previous generations of the Noz and other heads on the market.
Early feedback from stringers and players testing the Noz 2 X suggests the N.O.Z. tech lives up to expectations. The focused flex zone does seem to produce a defined, consistent channel right in the center of the head. While more time on the field will determine if this actually translates into performance gains, the innovation itself shows Warrior is still pushing head design into new territory.
Comparing Face Shape to Original Noz and Other Warrior Heads
The face shape of the new Warrior Noz 2 X represents an evolution from the original Noz head that aims to optimize ball control and shooting performance. When lined up next to the first Noz model and other heads like the Warrior Burn and Evo, some key differences stand out.
While retaining the tapered design from the initial Noz, the Noz 2 X has more defined sidewall rails that curve inward above the scoop to a narrower point. This gives it a more dramatic taper at the top compared to the rounded corners of the original Noz and many other heads. According to Warrior, this refined geometry focuses flex and pocket formation within a narrower zone.
The curve of the Noz 2 X face also appears slightly more rounded than the original, creating a fuller shape across the upper sidewalls where the pocket forms. This maximizes the consistent sweet spot for improved ball control. Warrior also claims they optimized the angle of the face’s curve to make catching, cradling, and shooting more natural.
Compared to pinched heads like the Evo and Burn, the Noz 2 X has a wider lower sidewall opening. This gives stringers more bottom stringing options for customized pockets. But the tapered top retains some of the focused channel benefits of a pinched design. This hybrid shape ultimately provides versatility.
While the Noz 2 X may look somewhat familiar at first glance, once you compare it closely to other heads, it’s clear Warrior made calculated tweaks to the shape. The more dramatic taper, rounder contours, and wider lower opening combine to offer unique performance capabilities that set this revamped model apart.
Advantages of the Updated ‘No Noz 2’ Sidewall Design
One of the most noticeable updates in the Noz 2 X is the redesigned sidewall structure dubbed the ‘No Noz 2’ by Warrior. This new technology aims to optimize stiffness, durability, and flex distribution across the head.
Like the original Noz, the Noz 2 X utilizes a crossed-section sidewall design with an external and internal sidewall on each side. However, Warrior tweaked the geometry and curvature of these sidewalls to reinforce the lower sidewalls while allowing more focused flex up top.
Specifically, the external sidewalls on the Noz 2 X flare out slightly more at the bottom to resist warping and damage. The curves of the internal sidewalls have also been refined to work in unison with the external sidewall shape. This creates a sort of leaf-spring effect that concentrates flex forces into the narrow zone right above the sweet spot.
By stiffening the lower sidewalls and modifying the flex pattern, the No Noz 2 technology provides a head with increased structural integrity across the entire width while still allowing for better ball control up top. The crossed sidewall design also retains the stringing and pocket benefits of the original Noz.
According to Warrior, lab testing showed the Noz 2 X had over 40% better scoop stability and 15% less sidewall deformation compared to the previous model. On the field, the upgrades should translate into improved durability and more consistent pocket placement over time.
While a bit technical, the sidewall updates represent real engineering advancements. The No Noz 2 technology takes the proven crossed-section design further and sets this head apart from other models relying on conventional single-wall construction.
Evaluating Stiffness and Flex of This New Warrior Model
Finding the right balance of stiffness and flex is critical for optimal lacrosse head performance. The Noz 2 X aims to achieve this balance through its innovative engineering.
According to Warrior, the Noz 2 X has a 30% stiffer scoop and 15% stiffer sidewalls than the previous iteration. This added stiffness improves stability for accurate passing and increased durability during checks. Yet the head still retains a measure of flex where it counts.
The ‘Narrow Oscillating Zone’ technology concentrates flex forces higher up on the sidewalls. This allows the top of the head to flex for better ball control while the lower sidewalls stay rigid. The redesigned sidewall geometry reinforces stiffness while permitting flex within a narrow zone.
During development, Warrior put the Noz 2 X through extensive computer modeling and lab testing to optimize stiffness distribution. The crossed-section sidewalls, tapered rails, and strategic placement of titanium in the throat work together to create the desired balance of stiffness and flex.
While lab tests reveal quantifiable gains in stiffness, the ultimate evaluation will happen when players test the Noz 2 X on the field. The early takeaway seems to confirm Warrior achieved impressive stiffness without making the head too rigid. Responsive flex where pocket meets ball leads to enhanced feel and control.
Given the engineering involved, expect the Noz 2 X to set new standards for tunable stiffness and precision flex zones. This meticulous balance helps optimize overall performance.
Impact of ‘Noz to Noz’ Rail Design on Ball Control
The Noz 2 X incorporates an improved rail design called ‘Noz to Noz’ that enhances ball control and feel.
This updated rail shape positions defined rounded rails along each sidewall that extend uninterrupted from one side of the scoop to the other. Previous heads often had rails that tapered off or thinned out along parts of the sidewall.
With continuous rails around the entire head, the Noz 2 X promotes consistent contact between ball and sidewall. As you cradle across, roll back and forth, or make cuts, the ball stays centered in the pocket thanks to unbroken rail contact.
These full-length rounded rails also let you grip the ball firmly on your stick for superior control during passing and shooting. The smooth curve helps the ball sit deeply in the pocket but releases cleanly.
According to Warrior, lab testing showed the Noz 2X provided over 20% better hold on passes and shots compared to the previous model. Field testing should reveal if those metrics translate into tangible performance gains.
By extending uninterrupted rails nose to nose across the entire head, the Noz to Noz design ensures consistency and control no matter where the ball contacts the head. Expect noticeably better touch and feel thanks to this rail enhancement.
Does the Noz 2 X Really Have a Wider ‘Sweet Spot’?
One of the touted benefits of the Noz 2 X is an optimized sweet spot for improved passing, catching, and shooting performance. But does it really make a difference?
According to Warrior, tweaks to the sidewall geometry, scoop angle, and pocket placement create a sweet spot on the Noz 2 X that is over 10% larger than the previous model. Their engineers used advanced computer modeling to determine the optimal flex points and pocket position to maximize this key impact zone.
In theory, a widened sweet spot provides more consistent contact across a larger section of the head. This leads to better control, more power, and greater accuracy whether you are passing, shooting, or scooping up ground balls.
While a larger sweet spot may seem like marketing hype, there are clear design elements of the Noz 2 X that likely improve its hitting zone. The curved sidewall rails widen the channel, the rounded scoop angle centers impact, and the focused flex zone hones pocket placement.
But enhanced feel and control depends on optimal stringing as well. The best way to evaluate the sweet spot gains is by stringing up the head and taking it for a spin on the field. If it lives up to expectations, you should notice the consistency and control advantages of a broader impact area.
With intelligent design tweaks focused on optimizing flex and pocket formation, the Noz 2 X appears poised to offer next-level performance from an enhanced sweet spot.
Scoop Design Comparison Between Noz 2 X and Competitors
The scoop is a critical yet underappreciated part of any lacrosse head. On the Noz 2 X, Warrior revamped the scoop design to optimize handling and improve durability.
At first glance, the Noz 2 X scoop may seem fairly standard. But small changes to the shape, angle, and structure impact overall performance.
Compared to the original Noz and other heads, the Noz 2 X has a slightly rounded contour along the bottom of the scoop. This helps center the ball in the pocket on catches and ground balls. The curvature also provides a smooth transition from the sidewalls into the scoop for increased control during cradling.
Warrior also optimized the scoop angle on the Noz 2 X to make ground ball pickup more natural while retaining a quick release when throwing. Scoops with too much of an upward angle can hinder passing.
Under the hood, the Noz 2 X adds titanium reinforcements in the throat and scoop for over 30% more stiffness. This prevents warping while retaining just enough flex for handling. More rigidity also translates into better ball retention on shots.
While easy to overlook, thoughtful scoop shaping, angle adjustment, and structural upgrades give the Noz 2 X an edge over its competition. Expect smoother handling and increased durability thanks to its enhanced scoop.
The Noz 2 X proves even minor scoop modifications can make a big difference in lacrosse head performance.
Assessing Durability of ‘Warrior Noz 2’ Materials
With the grueling demands of lacrosse, a head’s durability is crucial. The Noz 2 X utilizes updated materials and construction aimed at extending its usable life.
Like all Warrior heads, the Noz 2 X starts with a high-grade composite plastic shell molded for optimal strength and flex properties. But the Noz 2 X tweaks the polymer formula to increase impact resistance in key zones.
Strategic titanium reinforcements were also added in the throat and scoop to bolster stability. This helps minimize warping or deformation over time. Titanium is stronger and lighter than most metals, making it ideal for reinforcing composites.
The redesigned sidewall geometry also improves durability. Flared external sidewalls and refined internal sidewalls distribute forces more evenly across the head. This results in up to 40% better scoop stability compared to the previous Noz.
During lab testing, Warrior put prototypes through over 1 million load cycles to verify the Noz 2 X’s longevity. The materials and construction withstood this rigorous testing, proving the enhanced durability capabilities.
While no lacrosse head lasts forever, upgrade materials, titanium reinforcing, and optimized geometry give the Noz 2 X a longer useful life than most heads. These durable construction upgrades pay dividends over time.
Warrior built the Noz 2 X to be an extremely durable, long-lasting head that maintains its playability season after season.
How Weight of Noz 2 Impacts Quick Stick Performance
The Noz 2 X optimizes weight distribution to improve quick stick handling critical for excelling in today’s faster paced game.
At first glance, the Noz 2 X may seem slightly bulkier than some heads thanks to its crossed-sidewall design and titanium reinforcements. But it still tips the scales at a trim 5.6 oz. strung weight in most configurations.
Warrior strategically distributes weight by tapering the frame and focusing on composite layup design. More material at the bottom resists warping while the thinner throat retains balance up top.
This weight balance combined with the focused flex zone provides quicker handling for easier stick tricks and faster reaction times. The stiff lower sidewalls also translate power more efficiently with less energy dampening.
According to Warrior, the optimized weight distribution cuts down transition time during stick tricks by up to 15% compared to the previous model. In game situations, this translates into quicker moves and passes.
While not the absolute lightest head out there, the Noz 2 X’s dialed-in weight balance helps it feel nimble in your hands. The design enables snappier performance on quick sticks critical for advancing today’s up-tempo style of play.
The Noz 2 X proves you don’t need an ultra-light head to achieve fast handles. Intelligent weight distribution beats sheer lightness every time.
Looking at Pocket Placement Options with Noz 2 X
Stringing up a lacrosse head is all about optimizing pocket placement for superior control. With its tuned flex points and sidewall design, the Noz 2 X provides expanded pocket placement possibilities.
The narrowed flex zone created by the ‘Narrow Oscillating Zone’ technology makes it easier to string consistent pockets high in the center channel. This focused flex area centers pocket formation right in the stick’s sweet spot.
Mid-placed pockets are also an option with the Noz 2 X thanks to the crossover sidewall design which naturally centers pocket formation. Lower pockets are achievable as well if you prefer bags of deep ball retention.
According to Warrior, lab testing determined the Noz 2 X yielded over 15% more placement options across the entire head compared to the previous model. This versatile engineering enables more personalized stringing.
Wider bottom rails with angled sidewall holes give stringers more options down low to tweak channel width and whip. The curved sidewalls with full-length rails really let you fine tune pocket structure.
While optimal placement depends on your position and preferences, the Noz 2 X provides the pocket versatility to accommodate most needs. Take advantage of its dialed-in flex points and sidewall geometry to locate your pocket precisely where you want it.
Is the Noz 2 X Legal for NCAA and High School Play?
With its unique engineering and design features, lacrosse players want to know if the Noz 2 X meets regulations for NCAA and high school leagues.
According to Warrior, the Noz 2 X follows applicable guidelines regarding dimensions, materials, and construction. It has been cleared for play under current NCAA and NFHS rules.
While innovative, the “Narrow Oscillating Zone” technology and No Noz 2 sidewall design fall within standards for legal head construction. The titanium reinforcement also complies with requirements.
At its widest point, the Noz 2 X measures 6.5” across, falling safely within the maximum 7” width dictated by the rules. The length, scoop depth, sidewall dimensions, and other particulars likewise meet guidelines.
Throughout development, Warrior worked to ensure the groundbreaking engineering advancements of the Noz 2 X did not push boundaries too far. The novel technologies aim to enhance performance, not gain an unfair advantage.
Warrior heads are rigorously tested to guarantee compliance. Players at all levels can take advantage of the Noz 2 X’s innovations with confidence it conforms to current lacrosse equipment regulations.
The Noz 2 X proves cutting-edge engineering and optimal design can coexist within the rules of the game. Ingenuity and performance need not be sacrificed in the name of compliance.
Pros and Cons of the Noz 2 X for Attackmen
The Noz 2 X provides some clear benefits for attackmen, along with a few potential drawbacks to consider.
On the plus side, the focused flex and tuned pocket placement give attackmen superior control and feel. Quicker shot releases from the defined channel also make this a great head for crease finishers and snipers.
The stiffened scoop and throat maintain accuracy on passes and shots, while the reinforced sidewalls provide confidence during rides and checks. Attacking players will also appreciate the fast handles and quick sticks enabled by the balanced weight distribution.
However, some attackmen may find the tapered design takes time to get used to after using wider heads. The snugger fit results in excellent control but could inhibit cradling comfort at first. It also provides less ball protection on wraps compared to roomier heads.
While great for offensive initiators who carry the ball a lot, the Noz 2 X may not be ideal for off-ball attackmen who mainly look to catch and finish. The tight channel places a premium on precision which could frustrate players who value ease of use over total control.
Overall, attacking players who embrace the Noz 2 X’s precise design will be rewarded with sharper performance. But the tuned engineering may not suit all play styles. Weigh preferences for control vs. simplicity to determine if it complements your offensive game.
How the Noz 2 X Performs for Middies and Defensemen
For middies and defensemen, the Noz 2 X provides an excellent blend of offensive control and defensive checks thanks to its well-rounded engineering.
On defense, the No Noz 2 sidewalls withstand checks while the titanium throat and scoop increase durability. These stiffer components prevent warping while retaining enough flex for maneuverability.
In transition, the quick release and fast handles enable snappy passes under pressure. The centered sweet spot also maintains passing and shooting accuracy even when twisting and turning up-field.
For midfielders covering the whole field, the Noz 2 X strikes an ideal balance. Its precise pocket placement and defined channel deliver consistent control. Yet it remains sturdy enough for defensive stops and checks.
According to Warrior, the Noz 2 X shows 20% better ball retention on rides compared to the previous model. While metrics don’t always reveal real-game performance, the numbers confirm this head’s well-rounded capabilities.
Midfielders and defenders will appreciate the Noz 2 X providing precision on offense without sacrificing any defensive integrity. The stiffer components add confidence while the tuned flex enhances touches.
Is This Head Better Suited for Beginners or Experts?
With its innovative engineering and refined design, is the Noz 2 X better suited for beginners or experienced players?
The Noz 2 X caters more toward experienced players who can harness its optimized flex zones and precision pocket placement. The focused engineering provides enhanced control but requires proficiency to maximize.
Less experienced players may find the tapered design and tight channel too demanding. The snug fit offers less margin for error. Beginners often benefit more from wider heads with more wiggle room.
However, ambitious developing players could utilize the Noz 2 X to force refinement of their skills. Committing to this responsive head will sharpen fundamentals through repetition and precision.
Mid-level players can also gain advantages from the Noz 2 X as their game advances. The head grows along with your abilities, revealing new dimensions of control as skills improve.
While not ideal for absolute beginners, the Noz 2 X provides a technical platform to elevate your play as experience increases. Lean on the focused engineering now to enhance performance over time.
Ultimately, the Noz 2 X rewards lacrosse fluency. But dedicating yourself to it can accelerate skill development in the right hands.