STX has taken a unique approach with the X-IT Flex lacrosse head, focusing specifically on the demands of face-off specialists. Since there are very few face-off heads in the market with balanced flexibility and warp resistance, the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head review was necessary.
I have been using it for over a month and enjoyed the flexibility. However, you might wonder if this head delivers quick and controlled exits like STX claims. So, let’s move on to the detailed review.
Key Features and Specifications
Here are the key features of the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head.
| Position | Face-off, Stay on Midfielders |
| Weight | NA |
| Pocket Location | Mid |
| Stiffness | Extremely Flexible |
| String Holes | Top holes: 4Side Holes: 28 |
| Face Shape | Narrow |
| Ground pick-up | Good |
| Ball Release | Quick |
| Ease of Use | All |
| Spread on Shot | Minimal |
| Level of Play | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Legality | Conforming with NCAA and NFHS Rules |
| Colors | White | Neon |
| Release Year | 2024 |
Pros
- Shorter throat for better control
- Multi-angle for quicker break-in and flexibility
- Lightweight
- Highly durable reflex plastic with shape retention
Cons:
- Uneven string hole patterns
- Unable to deliver strong checks
STX X-IT Flex Lacrosse Head Ranking
I rate the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head an 8.3/10 on the Drip Meter.
| Accuracy of Shot and Pass | 8 | The STX X-IT Flex offers good shooting accuracy. The mid pocket and angled sidewalls enable precise ball release without spreading on passes. |
| Checking | 5.5 | It is not so good for checking due to its flexible build. It often loses shape during intense checks. However, it resists wear and tear despite a flexible profile. |
| Ball Security | 8.5 | The mid-pocket design provides secure ball control. The pocket feels locked in, especially useful in situations like dodging and close cradling. |
| Catching | 8 | Though flexible, it performs well when catching quick feeds. The pocket shape and face design help secure the ball after the break-in period, offering reliable responsiveness. |
| Ground Pickup Performance | 8.5 | The rounded scoop allows smooth ground ball pickups with minimal effort. The curved shape cleanly guides the ball into the pocket without requiring extreme angle adjustments. |
| Faceoff Performance | 9.5 | While specifically designed for face-offs, the head’s offset and throat design provide extremely good control for face-off players. It has the right amount of flexibility that face-off specialists need. |
| Stringing | 9 | The STX X-IT Flex has ample stringing options with 28 sidewall holes, allowing for versatile pocket customization. Ideal for players who want a tailored setup to enhance accuracy and control. |
| Durability (Material and Thickness) | 9 | This head offers high durability. Its thick Trap Tech sidewalls resist warping and withstand intense gameplay, even in challenging weather conditions. |
| Aesthetics/Brand Integrity | 8.5 | STX X-IT Flex’s white and neon color and aggressive scoop make it visually appealing and instantly recognizable on the field. |
| Cost | 8.5 | The STX X-IT Flex is fairly priced for its quality, though it may be on the higher end. Its durability and performance make it a worthy investment for dedicated players. |
| Total | 8.3/10 | The STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head is a well-rounded option for face-off specialists and stay-on midfielders, offering accuracy, durability, and excellent control. |
Who’s This Head Made For?
The STX X-IT Flex is one of the best lacrosse heads for elite face-off players demanding control and speed during the exit from the X. I think it’s because STX has partnered with elite players like Joe Nardella and Mike Sisselberger to design a perfect face-off head.
Despite the dual flex points and amazing flexibility, the reflex material maintains its shape well. The design team has kept the lower side walls flexible and thicker with trap tech ridges and the upper side walls stiffer.
Thus, it offers an amazing balance between flexibility and stiffness, perfect for winning loose ball battles.
Moreover, the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head offers a mid-pocket design with a speed scoop. Although the design is impressive, the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head review will tell you about the performance.
The STX X-IT head is also available in Neon color.
Accuracy of Shot and Pass
Using the STX X-IT Flex face-off head, I found the perfect balance between shooting accuracy and the tough demands of face-offs. Although this head isn’t designed for offensive midfielders, its amazing shape provides surprising accuracy on short-range shots.
Its narrow throat gave me extra control on the release, especially when moving quickly or making a clean pass. The Trap Tech ridges securely grip the ball on the way out, ensuring clean releases when feeding teammates after winning possession.
Furthermore, it has 28 sidewall holes for a customizable pocket to a mid-low or mid-high pocket. Few players disliked the uneven string hole pattern, but my STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head review would mark it perfect for leather strings.
Besides, the shorter throat design allows closer hand placement during face-off for better control. Although the X-IT Flex isn’t the fastest shooter compared to some offensive heads, it trades speed for control with a mid pocket.
Thus, if your playing style is focused more on catch-and-shoot situations, try a Nike CEO 3 FOGO.
Catching and Cradling
Initially, I didn’t get the consistency Nike CEO 2 or other face-off heads gave me while cradling the ball in traffic. I wanted more flexibility. However, my STX X-TI flex lacrosse head review changed after I adjusted my pocket with ECD Hero X face-off mesh.
The stiffer pocket gave me a sweet spot to balance ground balls on the run. It provides a natural hold that feels balanced and smooth, perfect for moving out of a face-off and transitioning into a midfielder.
Moreover, despite its narrow profile, the head’s design allows for a soft, reliable catching. The flexible, broader sidewalls grip the ball on impact, making it easier to secure catches even when receiving a fast or off-target feed.
Besides, it weighed around 6 ounces, not the lightest, but it didn’t strain my arms after long games—the flexible design smooth cradling and catching without needing added force.
Checking
I couldn’t deliver powerful checks with the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head due to its multiple flex points and narrow profile. Thus, it’s unsuitable for heavy defensive use. However, it provides a reliable feel and enough strength for strategic checks in close play.
I was impressed with the strong inner grip from the Trap Tech ridges and mid-pocket. The curved side walls held the ball securely even during quick direction changes, making it useful when fighting off checks. Hence, the head maintains its form, absorbing impact without any signs of bending or warping.
Moreover, the Reflex plastic provides enough flex and rebound capabilities to give the head a unique responsiveness during reverse clamps and FOGOs. It’s also durable enough to handle the impact of repeated clamps and jamming.
Many players also have positive STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head reviews about its flexibility. My fellows loved how easily it snapped back into position after each engagement.
Yet, if you don’t like overly flexible heads, try Warrior Burn FO head.
Ground Pick-up and Face-off
The speed scoop design is the highlight of the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head review. It makes ground ball pickups feel smoother than ever. The curved scoop effortlessly directs the ball into the pocket, so you don’t get that annoying slip or pop-out, even when scooping on the run.
One small downside is that it only has four top string holes. I would’ve liked a few more for extra stringing options. But honestly, the traditional mid-pocket picks up ground balls quickly and consistently, especially right after the whistle.
Even with its flexible design, the X-IT Flex is surprisingly warp-resistant, even in hot weather. I was impressed with how responsive it felt on the field and how well it held up over time.
I even used it in box lacrosse, and it performed just as well there. None of my previous face-off heads scooped ground balls quicker or smoother than the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head.
The narrow throat and mid-pocket placement funnel the ball right into the pocket, reducing any chance of bobbles or fumbles. STX has hit the mark with the X-IT Flex, especially with its collaboration with the Face-Off Factory.
People Also Ask
Is STX a Good Lacrosse Brand?
Yes, STX is a reputable lacrosse brand known for innovative, high-quality gear like the X-IT Flex head, offering durability and performance for both professional and amateur players.
What Does STX Lacrosse Stand For?
STX stands for “Stick” and “X,” representing STX’s roots in creating high-performance lacrosse sticks and equipment for elite players.
What Is the X Position in Lacrosse?
In lacrosse, the “X” position refers to a spot behind the goal where face-off specialists control the ball, often starting offensive plays.
Can Any Lacrosse Head Fit on Any Shaft?
Most lacrosse heads can fit various shafts, but compatibility may vary slightly by brand. STX heads generally work best with STX shafts for optimal fit.
Is the STX X-IT Flex Lacrosse Head Good for Face-Offs?
Yes, the STX X-IT Flex excels in face-offs with its flexible design, mid-pocket, and speed scoop, offering control, quick exits, and efficient ground pickups.
STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head is a worthy investment for face-off specialists and stay-on midfielders. The speed scoop design, rigged sidewalls, and flex points collectively provide an amazing face-off experience.
Although it lacks shooting speed, the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head shines in ball control and cradling. The stringing pattern is also adjustable to the playing style. However, you can also get it prestrung to avoid inconvenience.
While the STX X-IT Flex lacrosse head review highlights many positives, you must weigh the trade-offs based on your playing style before buying it.
