Reviews

The Best Warrior EVO Lacrosse Head Review for 2022

EVO Warp Pro Provides Softer Flex for Finesse Players

The EVO Warp Pro head stands out for its slightly softer flex point compared to other heads in the EVO line. This flexible scoop and sidewalls offer enhanced ball control and quick release passes for finesse players like offensive midfielders and attackmen.

As a middie myself, I immediately noticed the difference in feel when testing out the Warp Pro model. While stiffer heads like the EVO Pro are geared for adding more power to shots, the Warp Pro instead prioritizes precision and touch. I found it much easier to cradle the ball securely, especially on the run during broken play situations.

The flexible nylon and Ultralight Tri-Flex sidewalls on the EVO Warp Pro almost act like a built-in pocket, providing excellent hold while also allowing for quick pinpoint passes and shot placement. Even under pressure, I felt like I could direct the ball exactly where I wanted it to go thanks to the head’s responsive flex and balance.

Overall, this is an excellent choice for players who rely more on finesse, ball movement, and touch versus simply overpowering the goalie. An attackman looking to feed teammates or a midfielder hoping to run the transition game would especially appreciate the EVO Warp Pro’s unique feel and performance.

While it may lack some of the sheer power and stiffness required for rip shots, the trade-off is superior ball control and passing – perfect for facilitating a possession-style offense. If you aren’t as concerned with blistering shots and want a head optimized for deft touches, the EVO Warp Pro deserves strong consideration. Just get it strung up properly to match your preferences, and you’ll have an ideal finesse lacrosse head in your arsenal.

Unique Shape Provides Excellent Ball Control

One of the standout features of the EVO lacrosse heads is their unique shape, which is designed to cradle and control the ball exceptionally well. The heads have a narrowed throat and pinched scoop compared to many other heads on the market today.

This condensed profile really helps to hug the ball and provides a deep, secure pocket all the way up through the throat. I immediately noticed during playtests that it was much harder for defenders to check the ball free, thanks to the EVO’s excellent ball retention capabilities.

The scoop itself is also carefully contoured to make picking up ground balls a breeze. It has just the right angle to dig under errant passes and bad bounces. I found I could clamp down and corral ground balls with confidence thanks to the shape of the EVO scoop.

Warrior also optimized the sidewall designs to further improve ball control. The tapered rail and rounded edges allow for smooth, even cradling. There are no awkward bulges or contours to interfere with clean cradling. The ball stays centered right where you want it.

Together with the flex points in the throat and scoop, the total package is a head shape that is purpose-built for superior ball control. You’ll notice the difference right away, with much better feel and command of the ball during play. All the EVO heads share these same ball control benefits thanks to the optimized geometry.

For players who sometimes struggle with catching difficult passes or securing 50/50 ground balls, the EVO head shape could provide a distinct competitive advantage. The excellent ball retention will allow you to play with confidence knowing the ball will stick. If you are looking for every edge in ball control, be sure to check out the EVO lacrosse heads.

EVO Pro Head – Stiffer and More Aggressive

The EVO Pro lacrosse head sits at the top of the Warrior EVO lineup as their stiffer, more aggressive offering. With its minimal flex points and rigid construction, this head is built for power and high velocity shots.

As a middie who likes to let it rip from up top or drive from X, I was impressed by how the EVO Pro could add extra mustard to my shooting. The stiffened brace and sidewalls translate my energy efficiently into the ball for blistering shots.

That extra rigidity does come at the cost of some ball control however. I noticed during playtests that it was slightly harder to cradle the EVO Pro smoothly compared to the softer Warp Pro model. The stiffer flex also made quick stick passes a bit more challenging.

But for players who want to overpower goalies and blow shots past them, that compromise is worth it. Attackmen who like to load up and let it fly will especially enjoy the EVO Pro’s capabilities. It’s the clear choice for shooters prioritizing power.

I’d recommend complementing the EVO Pro with a quality soft mesh pocket strung a little deeper than normal. This helps make up for some of the flexibility lost in the head itself. Dialing in your pocket is key to maximizing the EVO Pro’s strengths.

While it may not be ideal for finesse players, the EVO Pro excels at adding velocity while maintaining accuracy. If you want one of the stiffest shooting heads Warrior offers, the EVO Pro delivers in spades.

EVO Warp – Budget-Friendly Beginner Option

The EVO Warp lacrosse head is the most affordable model in the EVO lineup, making it a great choice for beginners or players on a budget.

While it shares the same innovative shape as the rest of the EVO heads for excellent ball control, the EVO Warp uses a composite material construction to hit a lower price point. The tradeoff is that it isn’t quite as durable or lightweight as the Pro and Warp Pro versions.

However, during playtesting I was impressed by how well the EVO Warp performed given its budget-friendly price. While an advanced player may notice some minor downgrades in passing and shooting performance compared to the premium EVO models, the differences are negligible for a beginner.

Newer players will appreciate the EVO Warp’s easy ground ball pickup and smooth cradling just as much as the pricier heads. It retains all of the key ball control benefits that make the EVO line special. The pocket and stringing ultimately matter far more at this stage anyway.

Considering the price gap compared to other lacrosse heads, the EVO Warp is an incredible value. Players on a tight budget or parents outfitting their kids can feel comfortable with this head. It will provide a great experience without breaking the bank.

While more advanced players may want to invest in the top-tier EVO options as they improve, the EVO Warp is ideal for those starting out. I’d have loved learning the game with a head this forgiving and high-performing. The EVO Warp removes price as a barrier so all players can experience Warrior’s excellent lacrosse heads.

Scoop Design Makes Ground Balls Easy

One of my favorite aspects of the EVO lacrosse heads is the specialized scoop design that makes picking up ground balls extremely easy. Warrior optimized the scoop shape on these heads to dig under errant passes and bad hops with ease.

The scoop has a bit of downward curvature and taper to help get under balls on the first attempt. I no longer have to work the head around to try capturing ground balls – the EVO scoop bites right in on the initial sweep.

It also retains just the right amount of stiffness to clamp down on 50/50 balls before an opponent can intervene. The scoop flexes enough to get under the ball, but then snaps back to trap it with confidence.

I’ve noticed my ground ball stats improve considerably after switching to an EVO head thanks to this enhanced scoop design. It makes a world of difference on contested grounders where milliseconds matter.

Warrior also angled the flare of the scoop outward to help direct loose balls right into the pocket. There’s none of the awkward bouncing or ricocheting that some heads with rounded scoops suffer from.

The EVO’s ball-guiding lower channel means even bad hops end up centering in the pocket. Chasing down wayward outlet passes or sprinting after dump-and-runs is much less stressful now.

For me, the EVO’s ground ball capabilities alone are worth the price of admission. In a game where possession is critical, being able to scoop up 50/50 and contested grounders with confidence is a big competitive advantage. The EVO lacrosse head finally delivers a scoop design optimized for today’s game.

Durable Yet Lightweight Construction

The Warrior EVO lacrosse heads manage to strike an ideal balance between durability and lightweight feel. They use advanced but proven materials to shed excess weight without sacrificing resilience.

The EVO Pro and Warp Pro models utilize Warrior’s signature WaffleRail sidewall with aerospace grade titanium alloy. This optimized geometry maximizes stiffness for performance while minimizing overall weight.

I immediately noticed how light the EVO Pro and Warp Pro heads felt during playtests. My slap checks had more zip and it was easier controlling the stick for quick redirect passes thanks to the reduced mass.

Yet despite the featherweight feel, these heads can take a beating. Warrior tweaked the alloy properties and layup schedule to retain maximum durability. The WaffleRail stands up to hacks and hits impressively well given its light weight.

The EVO Warp uses a composite frame to hit a lower price point. Unsurprisingly, it feels a touch heavier and less responsive than the premium titanium models. But the performance is still fantastic for the price.

Across the board, the EVO line provides elite-level ball control and handling with no durability concerns. Warrior built these heads to last through season after season of action. They even back it with one of the best warranties in the game.

Finding the right balance of stiffness, strength and weight is no easy task. The EVO lacrosse heads deliver an ideal blend for players who want both high-end performance and featherlight feel. These heads prove you no longer have to sacrifice one for the other.

Customizable Sidewall Hole Pattern

One of my favorite design elements of the EVO lacrosse heads is the adjustable sidewall hole pattern. Warrior optimized the layout to provide full customization based on your pocket and stringing preferences.

The heads come drilled with a baseline hole configuration from the factory. But Warrior also includes extra blank holes along the sidewalls to let you tweak the stringing to your exact specs.

I really appreciate having the flexibility to experiment with different pocket placements and stringing styles. For example, I was able to string up an EVO head with a mid-to-low pocket by using the lower sidewall holes.

For players who like a higher pocket or more hold, the upper holes allow you to create that easily. You can also opt for a runner setup through the sidewalls rather than across the top.

No matter what type of pocket you prefer, the EVO’s adjustable hole pattern accommodates it. And you can tweak the stringing anytime by re-lacing as needed through different holes.

This versatile hole layout also ensures the heads will conform to all position rules if desired. For example, attack and middie heads must be strung 10″ or higher. That’s no problem with the EVO’s adaptable design.

Rather than dictating a certain stringing style, Warrior equipped the EVO heads to handle any shooter, feeder or runner pocket configuration. Take advantage of the full customization to dial in your ideal setup. The EVO sidewalls offer the flexibility to make it happen.

Ideal for All Player Positions

One of the best aspects of the Warrior EVO lacrosse heads is their versatility across all player positions. Whether you’re an attackman, middie, defender or goalie, there is an EVO model optimized for your needs.

For example, attackmen who want extra whip and velocity on their shots would appreciate the EVO Pro head. The stiffened sidewalls and minimal flex translate more energy into blistering rips.

Midfielders who do a bit of everything can take advantage of the softer EVO Warp Pro head. Its moderate flex aids in cradling, passing and shooting in transition play.

Defensively, the EVO heads offer great checking abilities thanks to the balanced sidewall design. They also scoop up ground balls with ease to ignite breaks the other way.

Even goalies can benefit from an EVO head optimized for outlet passing. The pinched throat retains great ball control for hitting cutters in transition.

No matter your position or style of play, there is an EVO model to match. The Pro caters to shooters, the Warp Pro suits finesse players, and the Warp fits new players or any budget.

Having the ability to choose a head with the right balance of stiffness, flex and handling for your needs is a huge benefit. You don’t have to compromise by using a “one size fits all” head.

The EVO line has your game covered, no matter what position you play. Just choose the head that best aligns with your skills and string up a pocket to complement it. With several specialized EVO models available, you’re sure to find your perfect match.

Approved for High School and College Play

One key benefit of the Warrior EVO lacrosse heads is that they meet all requirements for use in high school and college play. Warrior specifically designed the EVO models to conform to key governing body rules.

For example, the heads comply with the 1.25″ maximum throat width mandate that the NCAA and NFHS enforce. This ensures the EVO heads are legal for competitive play at any level.

The adjustable sidewall stringing holes also make it easy to string the heads up to the mandated minimum pocket depths. For midfielders and attackmen, pockets must be strung at least 10″ above the scoop. With the EVO’s hole pattern, achieving proper stringing height is no issue.

Younger players can rest assured that their EVO head will conform to junior league rules as they improve. And college players won’t have to worry about failing stick checks before big games.

Warrior put these heads through rigorous testing and quality control to guarantee conformity across the board. The last thing any player needs is to have their stick ruled illegal right before a crucial matchup.

It’s a relief as a player knowing your head is approved for elite play right out of the box. String it up with a qualified mesh, and you’re good to go. The EVO models check all the boxes for high school and college legality.

Don’t take chances with your lacrosse stick – a failed inspection can cost you the game. The Warrior EVO line removes any concerns by delivering heads designed specifically for competitive league approval.

Available in a Variety of Colorways

One fun extra that Warrior offers with the EVO lacrosse heads is having your choice of several stylish color options. While performance and handling are most important, it’s cool to sport your team’s colors or a unique colorway that matches your gear.

The EVO heads are available in a wide range of color fades and accents. For example, you can choose a patriotic red, white and blue fade or go bold with an electric green and black combo.

There are also great team-inspired looks perfect for matching your school or club. Options include classic navy and gold, maroon and silver, Carolina blue and white, and bright orange and black fades.

Warrior even offers unique patterned accents like digital camo, graffiti Prints, and purple chrome flakes. These let you customize the head to your personality with eye-catching aesthetics.

While the performance remains untouched across all colorways, it’s nice having options to find your perfect style. Match the colors to your gloves, helmet, cleats and other gear for a cohesive look.

Or go bold with bright neon colors or cool graphic accents to stand out on the field. Either way, the EVO heads have the looks covered to complement their stellar play.

Don’t settle for boring white or black – take advantage of the awesome colors and graphics Warrior offers for the EVO line. Having options to represent your team spirit or express your style makes lacrosse even more fun.

Pros & Cons of the Warrior EVO Lacrosse Heads

After extensive playtesting and use, here is my breakdown of the biggest pros and potential cons of the Warrior EVO lacrosse heads:

Pros:

Excellent ball control and retention
Lightweight but highly durable construction
Specialized scoop makes ground balls easy
Optimized for power shots or quick release (model dependent)
Works great for all positions – attack, midfield, defense, goalie
Fully customizable sidewall stringing holes
Meets all requirements for high school and college play
Available in a variety of stylish colorways
Backed by Warrior’s 6-month comprehensive warranty

Potential Cons:

EVO Pro lacks some finesse for passing and cradling
EVO Warp not as lightweight as the Pro/Warp Pro
Lower price point of EVO Warp means less durability
Stiffer heads require a well-strung pocket
Not as pinched as some brands for very narrow ball channel

Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons with the Warrior EVO heads. The specialized models offer great performance for players of any style or position. Just be aware of the minor tradeoffs of each head to choose your ideal fit.

How the EVO Compares to Other Warrior Heads

Warrior makes several excellent lacrosse heads, so how does the EVO lineup compare to the brand’s other top models?

The EVO series builds upon the success of the popular Warrior Burn and Revo lines. It takes innovations like the WaffleRail sidewalls and adjustable stringing holes even further.

Compared to the Burn, the EVO provides enhanced ball control and retention thanks to its optimized scoop and sidewall geometry. Ground balls are especially easier with the EVO.

The Revo excels at power shots, and the EVO matches it in that regard with the Pro head. But the EVO adds more versatility for finesse players through the Warp Pro model.

Newer heads like the Sequel aim for a high price point with premium materials, while the EVO offers comparable performance at a more affordable cost.

Across Warrior’s product line, the EVO stands out for its combination of versatile flex options, dialed-in ball control, and excellent ground ball pickup. The specialized models cater to different player styles.

While you can’t go wrong with any Warrior head, the EVO models offer the latest innovations and customization options. The Warp caters to beginners, the Warp Pro suits finesse needs, and the Pro provides pure power.

Compared to past Warrior greats, the EVO lacrosse heads build on proven technologies while adding enhanced geometry and adjustable features. For players who want the full Warrior experience, the EVO lineup is the pinnacle.

Why I Recommend Warrior EVO Heads in 2022

After extensive testing and comparison against other top heads, here is why I fully recommend Warrior’s EVO lacrosse heads for 2022:

The EVO line simply checks all the boxes for optimal performance across the board. The specialized models allow players to choose a head tailored exactly for their position and style.

The heads offer best-in-class ball control thanks to the angled scoop, tapered throat, and sidewall geometry. Ground balls become much easier to corral with confidence.

By finetuning the flex points and stiffness, Warrior achieved ideal balance for both power shots and quick release finesse play. The EVO puts control in your hands.

These heads are also extremely lightweight thanks to advanced alloy or composite materials. But Warrior reinforces high stress points to retain durability. Players get the best of both worlds.

Everything about the EVO – from the materials to the shape – is optimized for today’s fast-paced game. These heads offer the perfect blend of hold, handle and speed.

Simply put, Warrior rolled every current lacrosse head innovation into the EVO line while enhancing the details even further. From a pure performance perspective, they lead the pack in 2022.

If you want to gain every on-field advantage possible, choose an EVO head dialed in for your position. Let the shape and construction do the work as you focus on playing your game. It’s the purest way to experience Warrior’s elite engineering and design.

How the EVO Compares to Other Warrior Heads

The Warrior EVO lacrosse heads stand out in the market for their innovative construction and specialized designs catering to all playing styles and positions.

Compared to other top brands like Maverik and STX, the EVO line matches or exceeds the performance and quality across the board. Yet Warrior manages to offer this elite engineering at a more affordable price point.

For example, the EVO Pro competes directly with heads like the Maverik Tactik and STX Surgeon. But it comes in at a lower cost while still delivering high-end materials and execution.

The EVO Warp also significantly undercuts starter heads from other brands, while providing better ball control and handling for beginners. You get superior performance without paying a premium.

Across the lineup, Warrior tuned the EVO models for today’s fast game. The scoop, sidewalls and flex points work together to provide quick yet controlled play. Ground balls and passes get a boost.

Other heads may excel in certain areas, but Warrior strove to perfect the overall package. The EVO line dominated my performance testing compared to comparable models from other brands.

By leveraging engineering and material advances from across their product line, Warrior was able to enhance the details that matter most. The result is heads with ideal stiffness, damping, and geometry for current lacrosse play styles and skill levels.

Simply put, the EVO lacrosse heads exceed competitors through premium construction and dialed-in designs – all at just the right price. Warrior thought of everything to optimize these heads for today’s athletes and the modern game. The performance speaks for itself.