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The Project X EvenFlow Riptide LX and MX shafts have a surprising pairing of low torque and active feel. Two very different feels. High launching and low spinning, for me.
Introduction
While the “big hitters” in the forums may put all their focus on Project X’s HZRDUS line [reviews HERE], Plugged In Golf’s traffic indicates that a lot more golfers are interested in the smoother, friendlier option – the EvenFlow Riptide. With their latest versions, the EvenFlow Riptide MX and EvenFlow Riptide LX, Project X aims to pair that smooth feel with lower torque and more stability.
Looks
The MX and LX shafts maintain the signature aesthetic of the Riptide line [review HERE] while adding a new color to the equation. Both have the same hazy, watery base color that we saw in the original Riptide shafts – black for the LX, red for the MX. This treatment turns basic colors into something completely eye catching. Also returning is the frothy “Riptide” branding across the middle off the shaft, surrounded by EvenFlow and MX/LX.
As with most modern shafts, you have the option of installing the shaft logo down for a less distracting look at address. The finish is less busy near the tip, further promoting focus over the ball.
Feel
Per Project X, the EvenFlow Riptide LX is the lower trajectory model, the MX is made for mid launch and spin. With that in mind, we would expect that the MX is going to be a bit more active than the LX. But this is the EvenFlow series that we’re talking about, so both are going to kick.
What I found in my testing is that the difference is not in the amount of kick but in the way that they kick. The Riptide LX has a slightly more conventional feel, loading just below the grip and exploding through the ball. With the Riptide MX, I felt the energy rippling from grip to tip without one distinct kick point. One commonality is that both shafts want to activate. Even in X-flex (6.5), I didn’t need to swing all out to get them to load and kick.
Performance
I’ll get to the shafts in a moment, but I want to start by pointing out that this review is a stellar example of why numbers are not the be all end all in golf. The numbers above could not be much closer, but these are two very different shafts. If I had to game one, I’d have a strong preference, despite the fact that they produced similarly good results. Numbers are certainly part of the equation, but if we ignore the other elements, we’re really missing the picture.
My testing of the EvenFlow Riptide MX and LX shafts started on an extremely windy day. This proved to be an ideal showcase for these two. With both shafts, I was hitting shots that launched noticeably higher than my normal drives but also pierced through the wind. Even when the breeze turned straight into my face, both shafts produced shots with tremendous distance and integrity.
When I hit these shafts on calmer days and on the launch monitor, that high launch, low spin performance continued to show. What’s interesting is that this is not what Project X claims for these shafts. The EvenFlow Riptide LX is billed as low launch, low spin. The EvenFlow Riptide MX claims mid launch and spin. This is a great example of how specs can only take us far – each player needs to find out what the equipment does when it interacts with their unique swing.
Project X recommends both of these shafts for players whose tempo is “Moderate,” a word that’s never been used to describe me. This is why, despite how much I love the feel, the Riptide shafts aren’t an ideal fit for me. My best swings with these shafts produced amazing results. However, when I got too aggressive or quick, the dispersion became unpredictable. The LX was better able to rein in my angriest swings, which is why it would be my choice over the MX.
The Project X EvenFlow Riptide LX and MX are offered in 60, 70, and 80 grams. At 60 and 70 grams, there are 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, and TX flexes available. Only TX is offered at 80 grams.
Conclusion
The Project X EvenFlow Riptide MX and LX shafts prove that you can have a low torque shaft that doesn’t feel like rebar. Each of these shafts has a unique, active feel that works beautifully with a smooth or moderate swing. As always, make sure to get fit to find the best results.
Visit Project X HERE
Matt Saternus
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Hi Matt, How do they compare to the Evenflow Black, Blue or original RIpTide?
Jason,
I have reviews of all the previous EvenFlow shafts here: https://pluggedingolf.com/?s=evenflow
-Matt
Do you find the LX comparable to Diamana White or Tensei white? I love the feel of the Diamana Plus D+, but getting harder to find, and newer tech options probably mean I can tighten dispersion with same feel.
Bill,
No, I don’t think I’d put the LX in the same category with the Mitsubishi White profile.
-Matt
Hello Matt,
Just looking for an opinion. I’m currently gaming a TSI2 with a white Evenflow. I was thinking about trying a Riptide LX. I’m just wondering how different the 2 shafts are. I was fitted into a Tensei White. I hit both shafts well, I’m just looking to try something new. Thanks for the time.
Rod,
I would say those shafts are substantially different.
Best,
Matt
Hi Matt,
I have a PXG 0811X+ driver with a Riptide CB stiff shaft (blue). I like the shaft but I’m looking for more distance and a (slightly) higher ball flight. How similar is a Riptide MX ?
Frank,
I have a full review of the Riptide CB here: https://pluggedingolf.com/project-x-evenflow-riptide-riptide-cb-shaft-review/
-Matt
Hello Matt,
I currently have the Even Flow Riptide (5.5/50g) shaft in my Cobra XB Driver. The trajectory is too high but dispersion is really good. Looking for a moderate trajectory shaft. Thoughts?
Mark,
My answer is always the same: get a fitting. You can buy-to-try, but it’s going to cost more and, likely, get worse results.
Best,
Matt