Newest Men's Lacrosse Heads Reviewed (2022-2024)

02. STX Stallion 1K Gold Best all-around midfield

Weight4.84 ozPocketMidStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 16 each sideReleased2023PositionMidfield

STX released the first Stallion head in 2005. After 18 years, they have released the last variant of the Stallion series, the 1K™ Gold. This head is designed specifically for elite, all-around midfielders. Except for some cosmetic upgrades for more stiffness and shape retention with EnduraForm plastic, I could hardly notice any differences between the Stallion 900 and 1K.

The Stallion 1K aids midfielders with transition play, offensive playmaking, defensive responsibilities, and ground balls. It has a slightly narrow face profile and a mid-pocket location for easier catching and cradling. The Stallion 1K™ Gold has the deepest legal offset that conforms with the NFHS and NCAA rules and regulations (here's what makes a lacrosse stick illegal).

While on the field, it provided impressive feedback on ground balls to me. I could come at the ball from any angle. The Speed Scoop technology made the pickups swift as I did not face any friction and drag on the head. It also performed well with the checks. Although the design is a bit beefy over the rails, the curved scoop protects the strings to the maximum extent.

Despite the lower number of stringing holes, the ball sat snug just fine. I thought it would rebound for high-speed catching but I was wrong. While releasing, I felt a good snap as if my energy was transferring to the ball.

Functionality wise its performance was right on par. Nonetheless, the overall appearance of the head looks cheap. It feels as if something is missing. For the full breakdown, read our STX Stallion 1K review.

Battle Lax doesn't currently list the Stallion 1K Gold. Browse the STX collection or the full men's heads lineup for in-stock midfield heads.

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03. Warrior Evo QX2-O Best for sharpshooters

Weight4.9 ozPocketMid-LowStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 17 each sideReleased2023PositionAttack / Midfield

The much-awaited Warrior Evo QX2-O was released in 2023. The Evo QX2-O builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, the original Evo QX-O. In sports, the upgrades often go left and right but the QX2-O was right on point. Having used the original Evo offense head, I instantly noticed a clear difference in the performance and build.

It has a narrow face shape with a higher pinch. The mid to low pocket location facilitates precise ball placement and retention. It is ideal for sharpshooters looking to score goals or set up teammates. However, offense players who are used to high pocket locations won't find it suitable.

The Evo QX2-O performs exceptionally well in catching, cradling, and shooting. Its narrow throat and face width allow for snug ball retention during checks. The sidewall design of the Evo QX2-O further contributes to ball security. Although, I feel the sidewall stringing holes are low. These should have been 20 for multiple string options.

The Evo QX2-O excels in functionality and sturdy build. It has improvements in stiffness, sidewall truss orientation, and diffuser scoop design. They have used a proprietary hybrid thermoplastic resin called Thermal-LOC to further increase the stiffness by 50% while maintaining a lightweight profile at 4.9 oz. You will feel it if you have ever played with the original Evo.

The application of a scoop diffuser reduced drag on ground balls. Interestingly, it comes with an optional throat plug called LOC-Throat to further increase the control, stability, and performance of the head.

Battle Lax doesn't currently list the QX2-O. In stock right now: the original Warrior Evo QX-O ($99.99) and the newer Warrior Evo V ($99.99).

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04. Gait Torq 2 Lightest attack head

Weight4.4 ozPocketMid-LowStiffnessStiffString holes10 top | 24 each sideReleased2022PositionAttack

An attack head manufactured under the guidance of Gary and Paul Gait surely wouldn't disappoint. Based on the success of the original Torq, they decided that it was time to fill in the loopholes and make the Gait Torq 2 outclass its predecessor. Hands down, I must commend the versatility of the stringing holes and their impact on the performance.

It has a narrow face profile, more than the traditional narrow face profile of offense heads. This makes the catching easy, cradling with confidence, and shooting bullseyes. The mid-to-low pocket location ensures supreme ball control, allowing players to execute sharp passes and shots with ease. It has a higher pinch for better control. The rounded scoop's curvature helps with effortless ground pickups.

Gait Lacrosse claims that Torq 2 is the lightest and stiffest offense head. I can affirm this claim to be true. It only weighs 4.4 oz with a long strut of 24 string holes on each side. Hold on, they are not done yet. To put the icing on the cake, they added stringing ribs and made the rail sidewalls tapered for great accuracy and ball security.

A tapered sidewall is a design feature in attack heads where the sidewall of the lacrosse head gradually decreases in thickness from the top to the bottom. I would like to address that the addition of stringing rib does not make it illegal. It is completely legal and conforms with the rules. Shopping more offense heads? See our best attack lacrosse heads.

Battle Lax now carries the next version, the Gait Torq 3 ($99.99).

View the Gait Torq 3 on Battle Lax

05. StringKing Mark 2V Chrome Dyed Most stringing holes

Weight4.5 ozPocketMidStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 29 each sideReleased2023 (Chrome Dyed) | 2017 originalPositionAttack / Midfield

The StringKing Mark 2V has been a staple in offensive sticks since it first dropped in 2017, and the Chrome Dyed run released in 2023 gives it a fresh finish without changing what made it popular. It's a versatile head built for attackers and offensive middies who want a mid pocket and a tight, consistent channel.

The headline here is stringing freedom. With 29 holes on each sidewall, you can set the pocket just about anywhere you want, high for a quick release or lower for more hold. That's a stringer's dream, but it also makes it a head that takes some know-how to dial in.

At 4.5 oz, it's light without feeling flimsy. The stiff build held its shape on ground balls and through checks, and the tapered sidewall helps funnel the ball into the same spot shot after shot. For the money, it's one of the better values among the offensive heads on this list.

The Mark 2V's successor is the Mark 3V. Read our StringKing Mark 3V review to see what changed.

Battle Lax now carries the next generation, the StringKing Mark 3V ($119.99).

View the StringKing Mark 3V on Battle Lax

06. ECD Ion VOLT LE ZAP Best for elite attackers

Weight4.7 ozPocketLowStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 20 each sideReleased2022PositionAttack

The ECD Ion VOLT LE ZAP is a collaboration between ECD and ZAP. Launched in 2022, this head was designed for elite offensive players. The narrow face profile and low pocket location of the Ion VOLT LE ZAP display exceptional accuracy while passing and shooting. It feels like threading the needle with its tight face shape accuracy.

The rail of the ECD Ion VOLT LE ZAP is designed for low-pocket location. It has a higher pinch that remains tight at the top as well. Generally, the narrower the face shape, the better the ability to catch and cradle. The ECD Ion VOLT LE ZAP performed right on expectations for me.

The offset scoop shape and aggressive sidewall design of the Ion VOLT LE ZAP facilitate high-speed shots. The patented Diamond Plastic (see-through) not only makes it lightweight but also causes less drag because of the aerodynamic rail geometry. It felt like a second skin to me. Despite this, the velocity was somewhat low.

The curved scoop shape and low pocket design of the Ion VOLT LE ZAP helped me with easy ground ball pickups. It has the right amount of flexibility and warp resistance, however, this is by no means a midfield or a defense head. There is a high chance of breakage if you are going for the faceoffs with this head (FOGOs, check our best faceoff heads).

Its rigid construction and sturdy build provide players with the confidence to deliver hard hits without compromising performance. ECD offers specialty screws for grip and lock as well. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Ion VOLT LE ZAP remains an excellent choice for offensive players. It is to a great extent comparable with the Maverik Optik 3.0. Want the standard version? Read our ECD Ion head review.

The VOLT LE ZAP was a limited edition. Battle Lax carries the standard ECD Ion ($119.99), which shares the same shape and Diamond plastic.

View the ECD Ion on Battle Lax

07. Maverik Havok 2.0 Best for LSMs and D-poles

Weight5.25 ozPocketMid-HighStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 20 each sideReleased2022PositionLSM / Defense

The Maverik Havok 2.0 is built for elite LSMs and defense players who look to wreak havoc on the field with their dominating play style. The Havok 2.0 is an upgraded version of the original Maverik Havok. Released in the latter half of 2022, this head was made to dominate the ground ball battle and defensive play.

It has a tight face shape and lightweight design that makes it a formidable weapon for players who like to set up the game for attackers. As with most midfield heads, it also features a mid-high pocket for quick releases. On the field, I found it to be consistent in ball security and accurate in passing. However, it requires a certain degree of expertise to do so. If you are a beginner, it might not respond to your play style.

I received good feedback with catching and cradling. Most of the mid-high pocket heads have an issue with the ball's security. It tends to roll up instead of scooping in. Whereas, with Havok 2.0, I had the right amount of snug for a quick release.

The same was the case with checks. I threw in some pretty harsh checks, nonetheless, my success rate with turnovers was over 80%. The narrow throat and face profile retained the ball and ensured that possession remained firmly in my control.

The curved scoop shape makes it effortless to scoop up ground balls. This will give players an edge in crucial ground ball battles. However, it might take a scratch or two off the ground balls. The head has a rigid yet flexible construction for optimal durability. Maverik has placed 4 struts on the rail so that the head does not pinch in. It can easily withstand the intense gameplay.

While it may come with a higher price tag and require some skill to master, the Havok 2.0 delivers where it counts.

Want a custom look? Battle Lax also carries the Maverik Havok 2 Degree Series ($139.99).

View the Havok 2.0 on Battle Lax

08. ECD Mirage 2.0 Graphene Best for shooters

Weight4.95 ozPocketMidStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 18 each sideReleased2022PositionAttack / Midfield

The ECD Mirage 2.0 Graphene is designed for the world's best shooters. Building on the success of the original Mirage 2.0 (weighing 5.15 oz), ECD went with Graphene, the world's lightest and stiffest material, for the Mirage 2.0 Graphene. Launched in 2022, this head is still a nightmare for defenders and goalies.

The Mirage 2.0 Graphene has an aggressive deep offset along with a tight face profile and mid-pocket location. This helps the attackers with an improved release, more power behind the shots, pinpoint accuracy, and the ability to quickly adjust to the playing style of opponents. Although there were not any major updates to it, I could instantly feel the lightness and stiffness of this head.

On the field, it gave me good feedback with accuracy when shooting and passing. Its mid-pocket location provided an excellent balance of control and power to me. I am not exaggerating but it felt like firing cruise missiles that hit the bullseyes each time I attempted. The pocket location and strategically placed struts enhance its overall performance and feel.

Unlike most attack heads that have a low pocket, the mid-pocket of the Mirage 2.0 Graphene works well with catching, cradling, and even checking. The ball stays snug with minimal chances of turnovers. This head will surely surprise you with how well it reacts to ground balls.

The ergonomic flare around the throat feels good. I performed maneuvers one-handed with ease. It did not loosen up my grip and control over the head. Designing is the same, however, it is only offered in the original graphene color. You won't get many options there.

All in all, if you want to be an apex shooter who wants to find the back of the net, the Mirage 2.0 Graphene is what you should go for. Full details in our Mirage 2.0 Graphene review.

Battle Lax now carries the next version, the ECD Mirage 3.0 Graphene ($129.99), plus the standard Mirage 3.0 ($109.99).

View the Mirage 3.0 Graphene on Battle Lax

09. Warrior Evo QX-O Best value

Weight4.9 ozPocketMid-LowStiffnessStiffString holes6 top | 17 each sideReleased2021PositionAttack / Midfield

Launched in 2021, Warrior discontinued the traditional EVO number series and introduced a much-refined head series QX for both offense and defense. The Evo QX-O is pretty much identical to the Evo 5 in design and structure except for a few key differences.

Built with a Therma-Loc resin (high heat endurance), Evo QX-O's bottom rail design suggests a mid to low-pocket placement that helps with high-speed accurate shots and controlled passes. It has somewhat of a slightly more pinched throat. The slightly wide face profile contributes to consistent and quick releases.

The introduction of the proprietary Sym-Rail has helped the Warrior team to cut off excess weight and make it lighter and stiffer than its predecessors. The optional LOC-Throat feature is introduced to eliminate head wobble. Though you will need to screw it in.

The Evo QX-O has ample pocket depth for catching and cradling safely. The pocket keeps the ball snug. The head's improved curved scoop shape helped me with the ground balls. Because of the rigid yet flexible construction, I threw some basic checks without compromising durability. I would not recommend it for aggressive and punishing checks as well as faceoffs with this head.

However, in the latest developments, most of the offense heads are increasing the sidewall stringing holes to improve the customization and feedback for players. Whereas with the QX-O, I felt them to be lower. Instead of 17, these could have been at least 20 for a more tightly knit stringing pattern. Having said that, the overall performance of the Warrior Evo QX-O was good on the field.

View the Evo QX-O on Battle Lax

10. Nike Vapor Elite Best deep offset

Weight4.76 ozPocketMid-LowStiffnessStiffString holes4 top | 16 each sideReleased2018PositionAttack

This is the third generation head of the Nike Vapor series that was launched in 2018. So it is kind of an older head but its performance is still relevant to attackers. Unlike its predecessors, the Vapor Elite caters to a wide range of playing styles. I felt good responsive feedback during a vise-like hold.

The high pinch shape of the Nike Vapor Elite has improved accuracy tremendously. Whereas the deep offset profile provides excellent ball control and power, allowing for precise passes and powerful shots for the offensive play. The narrow face profile and high pinch shape of the head contribute to enhanced control, allowing players to control the ball with pinpoint accuracy for passing and shooting.

The Nike Vapor Elite did not disappoint me on the field with the easy ball retention and keeping the ball snug during catch and cradle. The mid-to-low pocket location provides a balanced feel for catching and cradling. The scoop angle of the head ensures that offensive players can get low to the ground without sacrificing stability or control during ground balls even with one hand. Thanks to its deep offset, the ball scoops in easily.

The head's sturdy build with the hyper-tough polymer ensures longevity. It is stiffer than all of the Nike offense heads. However, I feel that the strings on the lip of the scoop are exposed. There is no proper protection for it. Also, with the fat bottom rail design, tightness of the strings might be an issue for some. More in our Nike Vapor Elite review.

Battle Lax doesn't carry Nike lacrosse heads. For a similar deep-offset attack head, check the ECD Ion or the Maverik Optik Force.

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