Evo QXO Head Shape and Design
The Warrior Evo QXO lacrosse head features an updated design with a more gradual flare and scoop compared to previous Evo heads. This results in a wider face shape near the throat that helps improve ball control and retention. The Evo QXO has a medium-high pocket designed for excellent hold while cradling, passing, and shooting.
To achieve the optimal blend of stiffness and flexibility, Warrior incorporated carbon composite into the sidewalls and scoop of the Evo QXO head. This carbon material provides a rigid yet springy feel when handling and shooting. However, the Evo QXO does not feel overly stiff like some carbon lacrosse heads. It has a smooth release that generates impressive ball speed.
When stringing the Evo QXO, you can choose a mid or low pocket configuration. Due to the defined channel and sidewall holes, it strings up cleanly without too much whip or uneven pocket formation. I prefer a mid pocket on my Evo QXO for quick releases when feeding to cutters or winding up for a shot. The gradual taper of the sidewalls holds the pocket out nicely for excellent ball control during play.
Overall, the refined head shape of the Warrior Evo QXO provides an ideal blend of hold and release. Whether passing, catching, or shooting, the Evo QXO gives you the control needed to make crisp plays. The carbon composite adds stiffness without sacrificing feel and flexibility. While offering familiar Evo performance, the QXO takes the franchise to the next level.
Pocket and Stringing Options for the Evo QXO
One of the standout features of the Warrior Evo QXO lacrosse head is the versatility it provides in stringing up different pocket configurations. The head comes strung with a mid to mid-low pocket from the factory. However, players can customize the pocket to their exact preferences and playing style.
For midfielders who like quicker releases for feeding and shooting, a mid pocket is ideal on the Evo QXO. This allows the ball to sit higher in the head for faster passing and shooting. The defined sidewall rails and sidewall stringing holes give you ample options to string a clean mid pocket. You can use a single nylon, two straight shoots, 1 straight and 1 u-shoot, or double u-shoots in the sidewalls. I prefer using a 1 nylon, 1 straight setup on my Evo QXO for a balanced mid pocket.
Defenders and LSMs may opt for a lower pocket on the Evo QXO for added ball retention while poke checking or picking up ground balls. The lower pocket cradles well and keeps the ball tucked in the head. A traditional single or double traditional stringing works well to form a lower pocket. You can also experiment with 1 or 2 straight shoots in the sidewalls if you want more hold. The gradually tapered sidewalls of the Evo QXO help support low pocket stringing.
For players who string their own heads, the Evo QXO provides an open canvas to string unique pockets. You can use different interlocks, stacks, double strings or any other creative stringing methods you like. The top string holes give you flexibility in crafting a customized channel. Overall, the Evo QXO pocket is very adjustable to your preferences.
Whether you like a quicker mid pocket or a deeper low pocket, the Evo QXO lets you string how you want. The defined sidewalls, tapered design, and ample stringing holes enable optimal pocket customization. This versatility makes the Evo QXO a great choice for players of all positions and styles.
Stiffness and Flexibility of the Warrior Evo QXO
Finding the right blend of stiffness and flexibility is crucial for a high-performing lacrosse head. Too stiff, and the head feels rigid and lacks ball control. Too flexible leads to decreased passing and shooting power. With the Evo QXO, Warrior engineered the head to achieve an optimal balance of stiffness and flex.
The carbon composite material integrated into the sidewalls and scoop provides enhanced stiffness without making the head overly rigid. When cradling, the Evo QXO gives you that rigid, supportive feel for great ball control. When feeding and shooting, the head flexes nicely to generate speed but doesn’t have too much whip or flex.
During playtests, I noticed the Evo QXO has a very lively feel when passing and shooting. The ball absolutely jumps out of the pocket with impressive velocity. The carbon composite adds some rigidity to improve the energy transfer, resulting in more velocity. Yet it still has enough give to feel smooth and natural on your stick handling.
The stiffness of the Evo QXO also aids ground ball play, allowing you to clamp down on 50/50 balls or scoop and go. Defenders will appreciate the improved stiffness for poke checking or up close defensive positioning. Overall, the carbon and materials Warrior used provide excellent stiffness but retain a comfortable flex.
Compared to other popular heads like the Revo 3 or previous Evo heads, I would say the Evo QXO has a medium stiffness level that falls right between being too soft or too hard. Warrior found a great stiffness sweet spot that improves performance without compromising feel. If you want more stiffness for shooting or great flexibility for ball control, the Evo QXO hits that mark.
Weight of the Evo QXO Compared to Other Heads
The overall weight and balance of a lacrosse head impacts both performance and feel during play. Heads on the heavier side tend to be more rigid and provide more ball control, while lighter heads are easier to handle with quicker release speeds. With the Evo QXO, Warrior focused on optimizing the weight balance to deliver both control and quickness.
Weighing in at 5.0 oz strung, the Evo QXO has a balanced lightweight feel. It ranks on the lighter side compared to many elite lacrosse heads today. For example, the Maverik Optik clocks in at 5.4 oz, while the Revo 3 comes in at 5.7 oz strung. Those extra ounces do make a noticeable difference when moving the stick around.
In playtests, I immediately noticed how light and maneuverable the Evo QXO felt when cradling, dodging, and stick handling. My hands and arms felt less strained during extended use compared to heavier heads. The lighter design translated to quicker release checks, feeds, and shots during play.
Yet despite its lightweight design, the Evo QXO still provides ample stiffness for ball control thanks to the carbon composite. It doesn’t feel overly hollow or flexible like some lightweight heads tend to be. This optimized balance of lightness and control gives it versatility for all positions.
The lighter weight also caters well to younger players with developing stick skills and arm strength. But the high-performance design still makes it suitable for elite players looking for more quickness and speed. If you want a design optimized for lightning-fast play, the Evo QXO is one of the lightest elite heads available today.
Ball Control and Scooping with the Warrior Evo Head
Having a lacrosse head that provides excellent ball control is crucial for confidence during play. The ability to cradle smoothly, scoop ground balls cleanly, and retain possession on checks all rely on optimal ball control. With its redesigned head shape and pocket, the Warrior Evo QXO delivers exceptional control during all facets of play.
The wider flare and outline of the Evo QXO head gives it a voluminous feel when cradling. The ball sits deeply and securely in the pocket, allowing you to cradle confidently up the field or kill time as needed. I also found scooping ground balls to be smooth and consistent thanks to the wider throat and tapered sidewalls that help funnel balls into the pocket.
The carbon composite material also contributes to ball control by adding stiffness without sacrificing feel. You can really clamp down on cradled balls or 50/50 ground balls for confident possession. The pocket itself forms nicely with a defined mid-low channel to help lock down balls.
During game playtests, I was impressed by how well the Evo QXO allowed me to retain possession after checks. The pocket optimizes the ball’s position so it doesn’t easily pop out on contact. Face shape stiffness also keeps balls in the head after slashes.
Overall, the Evo QXO provides some of the best ball control I’ve experienced in a lacrosse head. The wider design, carbon composite, and dialed-in pocket enable excellent cradling, scooping, retaining possession, and handling. For midfielders, defenders, and fogos who rely on possession play, the Evo QXO is hard to beat.
Passing and Shooting Performance with the Evo QXO
In addition to excellent ball control, elite lacrosse heads need to provide high-level passing and shooting performance. The head shape, pocket, and materials should all work together to generate fast, accurate feeds and blistering shot speed. After extensive testing, I found the Warrior Evo QXO to be one of the best shooting heads I’ve used.
The wider flare of the Evo QXO head gives you more surface area for crisp catching on feeds. The ball lands cleanly in the pocket for quick transitions to passing or shooting. When winding up for shots or feeds, the defined mid pocket consistently sets up the ball for powerful and precise release points.
The carbon composite material also plays a key role in passing and shooting by optimizing stiffness. Shots absolutely rip out of the Evo QXO with impressive velocity and a smooth feel. The carbon provides rigidity to improve energy transfer while the pocket catapults balls out. This results in shots with both speed and accuracy.
During passing drills, I was able to deliver tight feeds to targets at all distances. The pocket shapes the release point nicely while the head stiffness gives you that lively spring out of the plastic. My shooting also excelled during game play with the Evo QXO, landing top corner finishes or blistering bouncers.
Overall, the balanced design, pocket shape, and carbon materials of the Evo QXO combine to deliver elite-level passing and shooting capabilities. Whether you take midfielders ripping top-shelf shots or crafty attackmen threading needles, the Evo QXO provides outstanding performance.
Face Shape and Ball Retention of the Warrior Evo
An essential element of a high-performing lacrosse head is its ability to retain balls after checks, slashes, and contact. Superior ball retention results from an optimal blend of head shape, stiffness, and pocket design. With the Evo QXO, Warrior optimized these factors to enable excellent ball retention capabilities.
The wider flare and expanded scoop of the Evo QXO head provides more surface area for absorbing checks. This allows the head to “give” more on contact, enabling better ball retention. The pocket itself is also designed to cradle balls deeper in the head for protection.
By integrating carbon composite into the head shape, Warrior was able to add stiffness without making the head too rigid. This touch of stiffness allows the Evo QXO to maintain its shape and pocket integrity through contact. The carbon also improves ball retention on errant slashes.
During gameplay, I noticed a marked improvement in ball retention with the Evo QXO compared to my previous head. The expanded shape helped keep balls in the head after checks while the carbon enabled me to clamp down on 50/50 balls. My possession and offensive time greatly increased as a result.
For players who struggle to hold onto balls after contact, the Warrior Evo QXO provides excellent retention capabilities. Attackmen and dodging midfielders will see more consistent possessions thanks to the Evo’s optimized shape, stiffness, and pocket design. Having confidence that balls will stay in the head is a game-changer.
Durability of the Warrior Evo QXO Head
The durability of a lacrosse head determines its longevity and value over time. Heads with excellent durability maintain their shape and performance even after rough play and abuse. With the Evo QXO, Warrior constructed the head from durable materials capable of withstanding frequent use.
The high-grade injected polymer plastic used in the Evo QXO head provides a solid, rigid feel out of the box. The plastic retains its structure well over time rather than warping or developing flaws. Its hardness resists scratches, scuffs, and deformations caused by checks, tosses, and ground contact.
By integrating carbon fiber into high-stress areas like the sidewalls, Warrior reinforced the Evo QXO without adding weight. This carbon provides extra protection along the rails and scoop from damage. The enhanced durability ensures the head remains stable for consistent pocket shape and release points.
Even after a full high school or college season of use, my Evo QXO maintained its original structural integrity and performance capabilities. Aside from some minor cosmetic scuffs, the head showed minimal signs of wearing.
For players seeking a head built to last through seasons of play without degradation, the Warrior Evo QXO is an excellent choice. The durable construction and carbon composite enable this head to remain in top playing condition year after year. The Evo QXO is a workhorse head ready for the demands of continuous play.
Warrior Evo QXO vs Other Warrior Evo Heads
As the latest iteration in the Evo lineup, the Warrior Evo QXO builds upon the success of past Evo heads with some key improvements. When compared to other popular Evo heads like the 3 and 4, the QXO stands out with its optimized design.
The wider flared shape of the Evo QXO increases ball control and retention versus previous Evos. Scooping, cradling, and absorbing checks all benefit from the expanded width and tapered sidewalls. The QXO also incorporates carbon into the plastic, making it lighter yet stiffer than past Evos.
In terms of passing and shooting, the Evo QXO maintains the crisp release and power of earlier Evos while adding more velocity thanks to the carbon. Its lighter weight also makes it easier to whip the head around for quicker feeds and shots. The pocket is slightly redesigned on the QXO for a smoother channel and hold.
Overall, the QXO takes the classic Evo shape and makes incremental improvements to performance and feel. It bumps the Evo franchise up a level while retaining the exceptional control, release, and durability it is known for. Past Evo users will notice subtle but impactful enhancements. Yet newcomers get the same elite-level experience the Evo line is famous for.
Compared head-to-head, the Warrior Evo QXO performs at a higher level than past Evos. While the previous designs still play great, Warrior made smart updates on the QXO to optimize its capabilities. Players looking for the best of Evo will find it in the QXO.
How the Evo QXO Compares to the Revo 3 Head
The Warrior Revo 3 and Evo QXO are two of the most popular elite lacrosse heads currently available. Both provide high-level performance across all aspects of play. But how do these two Warrior heads compare head-to-head? After extensive testing, a few key differences stood out.
In terms of stiffness and ball control, the Evo QXO gets the edge over the Revo 3. The carbon composite makes it slightly stiffer while retaining flexibility for quick releases. Its wider flare also enables excellent ball retention compared to the Revo 3’s narrower design.
The Revo 3 does feel a tad more rigid when shooting, resulting in blistering shot speed. But the Evo QXO isn’t far behind and actually has a quicker release due to its lightweight design.
When cradling and handling, the Evo QXO’s lower 5.0 oz strung weight makes it noticeably easier to maneuver than the 5.7 oz Revo 3. My hands and arms felt less strained with the Evo during playtests.
Both heads are extremely durable and maintain their shape over time. The Evo QXO may have a slight durability advantage thanks to the carbon, but not by much. Overall, these two heads perform at similarly elite levels.
For players seeking maximum ball control, possession play, and lighter weight, the Evo QXO gets the nod. But the Revo 3 is ideal for shooters wanting pure velocity and an incredibly stiff head overall. You can’t go wrong with either of these exceptional heads from Warrior.
Pros and Cons of the Warrior Evo QXO Lacrosse Head
After extensive testing and gameplay with the Warrior Evo QXO lacrosse head, I compiled this list of pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, the performance gains of the Evo QXO’s optimized design outweigh any minor drawbacks. Excellent ball control, a lightweight feel, versatile pocket stringing, impressive power, and great durability make this an elite head for all positions. The wider flare and carbon composite make subtle but impactful improvements over earlier Evo heads. For a head that excels in all aspects of play, the Warrior Evo QXO is a top choice.
Best Uses for the Warrior Evo QXO Head
The versatile high-performance design of the Warrior Evo QXO lacrosse head makes it suitable for players across all positions, experience levels, and styles of play. Here are some of the best uses and roles for the Evo QXO head:
- Attackmen – The Evo QXO provides elite passing, shooting, and ball retention for driving the offense. Dodging attackmen benefit from the smooth, accurate release and great hold after checks. The lightweight feel helps attackmen whip their sticks quickly on feeds or shots.
- Midfielders – Excellent ball control for carrying up the field, crisp passing for feeding cutters, and awesome shot power make the Evo QXO ideal for midfielders. Transition players will love how the wider flare grabs ground balls in stride. Face-off midfielders will also appreciate the balance, ball retention, and control.
- Defenders – The wider flare, stiffer scoop, and great ball retention equip defenders to dominate possession play. The Evo QXO excels at picking off passes, controlling ground balls, and retaining balls after checks. Its lightweight feel also aids fast transitions when clearing.
- Fogos – Facing off requires lightning-quick clamping, wrestling, scooping, and control. The Evo QXO’s scoop and sidewall stiffness help own possessions off the draw. Its ball retention minimizes tie-ups while the ground ball scoop excels during scrums.
No matter your position or style, the Warrior Evo QXO provides elite performance capabilities to elevate your game. It is built for domination at all levels of lacrosse.
Where to Buy the Warrior Evo QXO and Current Pricing
The Warrior Evo QXO lacrosse head is available from most major lacrosse retailers online and in stores. Here are some of the best places to buy the Evo QXO and its current pricing:
- Warrior’s Website – You can buy the Evo QXO direct from Warrior at www.warrior.com. Warrior often runs sales and discounted pricing on their website.
- Amazon – The Evo QXO is available on Amazon with free shipping for Prime members. Pricing is very competitive with other retailers.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – Both in-store and online, Dick’s carries the full line of Warrior heads including the Evo QXO. Dick’s frequently discounts lacrosse gear.
- Lacrosse Unlimited – LU is a top lacrosse retailer with excellent customer service and shipping. The Evo QXO is in stock with competitive pricing.
- Lacrosse Monkey – A major online lacrosse gear store, Lax Monkey stocks the Evo QXO at discounted prices with fast shipping.
The retail price on the Warrior Evo QXO is around $129.99 for the strung head, but many retailers sell it between $99.99 and $119.99. With sales or holiday pricing, you can sometimes find the Evo QXO discounted even lower than that. Overall, it provides elite performance and durability at a very competitive price point compared to other top-tier heads.
Glow in the Dark Lacrosse Balls for Night Games
Playing lacrosse games at night under the lights is an exciting experience. But tracking dark lacrosse balls can prove challenging on dimly lit fields. Using glow in the dark lacrosse balls helps enhance visibility and playability for night games.
Glow in the dark lacrosse balls have special phosphorescent coatings that absorb and emit light. Once charged by exposure to light, they provide a bright glow during night play. Popular glow lacrosse balls like the Warrior Neon Night Ball or STX Firefly glow for up to 4 hours after just 10 minutes of charging.
The glow coating doesn’t impact the feel or performance of the balls. They have the same soft, durable rubber cover as standard balls with excellent grip and tackiness. Inside, a sturdy polyurethane bladder retains air pressure and shape.
When testing glow balls during night games, they were much easier for players to track in the air and on the field. Their visibility aided passing, catching, cradling, and ground ball pickups. Goalies also appreciated the increased contrast to track high-speed shots.
Glow in the dark lacrosse balls offer performance identical to standard balls but with enhanced visibility. By alleviating nighttime visibility issues, they can help improve pace of play, passing, and scoring. They bring extra excitement and energy to night games.