Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap: Battle of the Titans

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Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap

Before we dive into Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap Comparison, let’s discuss how we got here…

Everything you need for your hair
A great, budget item alternative
Primary Rating:
4.5
Primary Rating:
4.4
$599
$319
Pros:
  • Long Barrels for Long Hair: Great for long hair.
  • Gentle Heat: Easier to use on kids
  • Barrel Versatility: Curl direction changes easily.
Pros:
  • Quick Drying: Dries hair fast.
  • Strong Heat: Locks styles in place.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced at $350.
Cons:
  • High Price: Costs around $600.
  • Slow Drying: Not the fastest dryer.
  • Reliability Issues: Can be inconsistent.
Cons:
  • Short Barrels: Not great for long hair.
  • High Heat Risk: Can damage hair.
  • Attachment Limitations: Fewer brush options available.
Everything you need for your hair
Primary Rating:
4.5
$599
Pros:
  • Long Barrels for Long Hair: Great for long hair.
  • Gentle Heat: Easier to use on kids
  • Barrel Versatility: Curl direction changes easily.
Cons:
  • High Price: Costs around $600.
  • Slow Drying: Not the fastest dryer.
  • Reliability Issues: Can be inconsistent.
A great, budget item alternative
Primary Rating:
4.4
$319
Pros:
  • Quick Drying: Dries hair fast.
  • Strong Heat: Locks styles in place.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced at $350.
Cons:
  • Short Barrels: Not great for long hair.
  • High Heat Risk: Can damage hair.
  • Attachment Limitations: Fewer brush options available.

A Trip Down Hair Nostalgia Lane

Gather ’round, people! There was once a time when hair care options were as limited as the channels on a tube TV. Ah, the good ol’ days of Chi hair straighteners, Revlon curling irons, a regular ol’ traditional hair dryer, and Conair hot curlers. Those were your three hairstyling musketeers, and you didn’t dare ask for more.

Heatless curls? Never heard of ’em. Styling wand with 15 different attachments? Science fiction! And if you needed a tutorial? You asked your mom or your BFF, no fancy YouTube videos for guidance. Heck, you were lucky if you even had a burnt VHS tape of some 80s hair tutorials.

The Modern Hair-scape

Fast-forward to today, and you’ve got TikTok inundating you with new hair gadgets faster than you can say “bad hair day.” And who am I to resist? For me, curling my hair is like a Sunday drive—easy, breezy, and scenic all the way.

Shark attachments

But my baby girl has the most challenging hair! It is not straight but does not hold a curl. It is thin, but also fluffy.  It is tangly and unruly.  So my quest for the perfect hair styling product has been mostly to make it easier for me to do her hair! I always try things on myself first because I want to know how hot it gets, if it pulls, etc.

Sounds fun, right? So, my hairstyling adventures are usually motivated by taming that fluffy, tangly mane. Because how can you say no to a pouty face asking for princess hair?

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap: The Heavyweights in the Ring

Where this all started
Dyson AirWrap (1st Gen, Refurbished)
1.5
$399

Still more expensive than the Shark FlexStyle, you can sometimes find a deal on refurbished items from Dyson. However, we wouldn't recommend it do to reliability issues.

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We might earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here’s the meat and potatoes of this post. I’ve been a Dyson AirWrap user for years; I’m practically a brand ambassador at this point. Heck, I’m even on my second-generation model! But like any curious Jane, the Shark FlexStyle caught my eye recently. So, naturally, I had to put it to the test. Because let’s be honest, if there’s a shiny new toy out there promising to make my life easier, you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be there with bells on.

Safety First: The Mom Test

Style with the Dyson AirWrap 2. A big issue in our Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap comparison.

Before I let any piece of heated plastic near my daughter’s head, I’m the lab rat, folks. We’re talking temperature tests, pull tests, and the all-important ‘How Many Times Will I Accidentally Burn Myself?’ test. So don’t worry; by the time these gadgets graduate to a hair dryer (and much more) for a tiny human head, they’ve been rigorously mom-tested.

Dyson AirWrap: The Second Time Around

More on my long history with the Dyson AirWrap later. But for now, let’s just say it’s like a fine wine; it only gets better with age. Well, not age, but definitely newer models.

Shark FlexStyle: The New Kid on the Block

A great, budget alternative
Shark FlexStyle
$319

Offers many features of the Dyson AirWrap, but about half the cost.

Buy Now
We might earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

I’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details later, but for now, let’s say the Shark FlexStyle is like the shiny new sports car you can’t help but ogle at. Sure, it might have that new car smell, but does it have the horsepower?

Who Wins the Title?

For those of you who are tired of tossing coins or consulting the Oracle, stay tuned. The complete Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap showdown is coming up, where we’ll dissect the pros, the cons, and the ‘Oh-my-God-why-didn’t-anyone-tell-me-that-earlier?’ moments.

What Do the Shark Flexstyle and the Dyson AirWrap Actually Do?

First things first, let’s clear up the job description of these two multitasking maestros. At their core, both the Shark FlexStyle and the Dyson AirWrap are jacks-of-all-trades in the hairstyling universe. They’re like the Swiss Army knives of hair gadgets. You can dry your hair with ’em, and then—hold your applause—style it too. Yep, you heard that right. No more fumbling between a blow dryer and a separate curling iron like you’re a circus juggler. One device, two jobs. Efficiency at its finest, my friends.

What if my hair is fine hair or curly and oily hair?

And if you’re thinking, “Well, my hair is as fickle as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs,” don’t worry! These gadgets come with more attachments than your average vacuum cleaner. It’s like a buffet of styling options. Whether your hair is thin, thick, wavy, or stubbornly straight, there’s an attachment that’s just begging to make your hair its next big project.

Seriously, it’s like having a personal hairstylist living in your bathroom cabinet.

How these both work: more than just a hair dryer

Now, what’s the magic sauce that makes all this possible? Air and heat, baby! Both of these devices are like gentle whirlwinds, harnessing the power of airflow and temperature to twist, curl, and straighten your locks. Imagine a warm, gentle breeze on a summer day, only this one won’t mess up your hair—it’ll make it fabulous.

Portability

Last but not least, let’s talk about portability. We’ve all had that ‘Oh snap!’ moment when you realize you’ve left your styling tool at home while on a weekend getaway. But fear not, these two knights in shining armor come with their own carrying cases and, of course, their entourage of styling attachments. It’s like taking your entire vanity on the road, minus the sink.

So there you have it. Both the Shark FlexStyle and the Dyson AirWrap are like the hair equivalent of your smartphone. They do it all and then some. But can they coexist in a world where only one can reign supreme?

What is the Shark FlexStyle?

The Shark FlexStyle is a multi-functional hair tool that easily transforms between a powerful hair dryer and a versatile multi-styler, allowing you to curl, volumize, smooth, and dry your hair. It’s designed to provide fast drying while minimizing heat damage, making it suitable for various hair types. The FlexStyle comes with different attachments like auto-wrap curlers, oval brush, paddle brush, and a curl-defining diffuser, enhancing its styling versatility.

Introducing the Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate 6-Piece Accessory Pack—a swift twist takes you from a robust hair dryer to a multi-faceted stylist. Ready to redefine your hair game?

  • Multi-Styling Tool: Effortlessly switch between a potent hair dryer and a multi-styler.
  • Style Spectrum: Curl, volumize, smooth, and dry; unlock the world of hairstyling.
  • No Heat Damage: Enjoy rapid drying with controlled heat, minimizing damage.
  • Light and Speedy: Though just over 1.5lbs, it offers powerful, fast drying.
  • For All Hair Kinds: Tailored for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair.
  • Accessory Suite: Includes auto-wrap curlers, oval brush, paddle brush, and a curl-defining diffuser.
  • Product Specifications: Comes with an 8 ft cord, operates at 120 volts and 1400 watts, with a 2-year limited warranty​.

The Practical Benefits of the Shark FlexStyle

Alright, let’s cut to the chase about why the Shark FlexStyle could be your next go-to hair tool. First off, it comes with a well-designed carrying case and a wide variety of attachments. That means not only does it look good, but it’s also versatile. You’ve got an attachment for every hair whim you could think of.

Hot!

Now, onto heat. This device gets really warm, and that’s a good thing. It’s designed to style your hair efficiently and make sure that style holds. No limp curls or flat waves an hour after you’ve done all the work. It sets your hair as if it’s locking in the style for the long haul.

Speed, baby!

Speed is another huge advantage. If you’re in a hurry (and let’s face it, who isn’t these days?), the Shark Flexstyle dries your hair quickly (it doesn’t matter if you have wet hair, wavy hair or dry hair). That’s due to its effective heat settings and the overall design of the dryer. Imagine getting from soaking wet, straight and wavy hair to perfectly styled hair in record time. That’s what this tool aims to do.

So, if you’re looking for a hair styling device that’s versatile, effective, and fast, the Shark FlexStyle checks all those boxes. Up next, we’ll see how it compares to the Dyson AirWrap.

What is the Dyson AirWrap multi-styler?

Everything you need
Dyson AirWrap
$599

... but way more expensive.

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We might earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler is a versatile hair styling tool designed to dry, curl, wave, and smooth your hair without causing heat damage. It utilizes the Coanda effect, which harnesses air to attract, wrap, and style hair, offering a range of styling possibilities with various attachments for different hair types and lengths. With its intelligent heat control, it ensures your hair remains protected while achieving salon-like results at home.

Dive into a sea of styling possibilities with the Dyson Airwrapâ„¢, your new best friend in achieving salon-like hair at home.

  • Versatile Styling: Curl, wave, smooth, or dry your locks to perfection.
  • No Heat Damage: Smart heat control ensures your hair remains unscathed.
  • Coanda Effect: Utilizes air to style, reducing reliance on extreme heat.
  • Long Hair Friendly: Especially designed for those with longer tresses.
  • Various Attachments: Comes with barrels, brushes, and a smoothing dryer for a comprehensive styling experience.
  • Special Editions: Explore unique color and feature options in special edition models.

With the Dyson Airwrapâ„¢, every day is a good hair day!

The Practical Advantages of the Dyson AirWrap

Let’s get down to business and discuss what makes the Dyson AirWrap a contender in this hair styling system showdown. One of the standout features is the variety of barrel sizes it offers. Whether you have short hair, long hair, or somewhere in between, there’s a barrel size tailored to you. It’s like having custom-fit jeans, but for your hair.

Heat settings

Next up, heat—or rather, the lack thereof. The Dyson AirWrap uses less heat compared to many styling tools, which is a win for your hair’s health. Think of it as the gentle yoga class of hairstyling; it’s effective but won’t leave you feeling burnt out (or burnt, in this case).

Lastly, let’s talk about the direction-changing curling barrels. These are a game-changer. You can curl one side of your hair and then, with the same currling barrel, curl the other side by simply changing its direction. It’s as if the hair tool itself is saying, “No need to detach me, I’ve got this.”

In a nutshell, the Dyson AirWrap scores high on customization, hair health, and ease of use. Stick around as we put these two titans, the Shark Flexstyle and the Dyson AirWrap, head-to-head to see which one comes out on top.

Head-to-Head: Shark FlexStyle vs Dyson AirWrap – More than a Hair Dryers

These bad boys are not just a glorified hair dryer, they are much more. On top of that, they work on everything – even straight and wavy hair.

Drying Efficiency: Shark FlexStyle Takes the Lead

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap – FlexStyle wins for drying speed

When it comes to drying hair quickly, the Shark FlexStyle is the Usain Bolt of hair dryers. Its increased heat and efficient attachments give it the upper hand. Now, I loved the first-gen Dyson AirWrap for its hair drying alone abilities, but the second-gen model? Not so much.

The addition of the flyaway attachment muddles its effectiveness. I find myself grabbing a separate hair dryer when using the Dyson, especially if I’m not on vacation and it’s the only tool I’ve packed. Lesson learned: better to have options.

Curling Capabilities: Dyson AirWrap Wins by a Mile

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap – Dyson takes the cake for Curling Capabilities, especially for not naturally curly hair.

If curling is your main gig, the Dyson AirWrap leaves the Shark FlexStyle in the dust. The barrels on the Shark FlexStyle are too short for my Rapunzel-length hair, and my daughter’s long locks face the same problem.

Dyson not only curls better but also leaves your hair looking sleek and healthy. The lack of excessive heat reduces frizz, giving you the Hollywood curls you’ve always dreamed of. Plus, the latest Dyson model has barrels that switch directions without needing to be replaced. With Shark, you’ve got to change the barrel to curl the other side of your head. It’s like choosing between a smartphone and a rotary dial.

Reliability: A Draw with Caveats

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap – TBD, we’ll update this review.

The Dyson AirWrap can be unreliable, as I’ve learned the hard way during an international pageant. I’m currently on my third Dyson, thanks to their replacement policy.

Shark FlexStyle hasn’t given me issues, but I haven’t had it as long, so the jury is still out on this one.

Brush Attachments: A Toss-Up

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap – another tie.

Both models come with brush attachments, but the Dyson has one extra. Honestly, I don’t use these much, so I don’t have a favorite. If brush attachments are a big deal for you, take a close look at each model’s offerings to make your pick.

Shark also features a build-your-own option, which allows you to add any three accessories for free. This includes the Curl-Defining Diffuser, Oval Brush, Wide-Tooth Comb, and much more.

The Diffuser Debate: Shark FlexStyle Comes Through

For those who use a diffuser, the Shark FlexStyle has got you covered. Dyson offers a separate diffuser for 40 bucks, but compared to Shark’s, it seems lackluster.

The Price Game: Shark FlexStyle is the Budget-Friendly Choice

Finally, let’s talk dollars and cents. The Dyson AirWrap will set you back a cool $600, while half the price the Shark FlexStyle is priced at $350. Depending on how you plan to use these tools, the price difference could be the deciding factor.

So there you have it! Whether you’re a quick-dry devotee or a curling connoisseur, both the Shark FlexStyle and the Dyson AirWrap have their merits. It all boils down to your hair needs and how deep your pockets are.

Shark FlexStyle vs Dyson AirWrap: The Final Showdown

Shark FlexStyle vs. Dyson AirWrap – pictured together.

Alright, folks, let’s cut to the chase. Picking between the Shark FlexStyle and the Dyson AirWrap is like choosing between chocolate cake and cheesecake. Both are amazing, but what are you in the mood for?

When to pick the Dyson AirWrap over the FlexStyle: If you need curls

If your hair game leans towards curling, then the Dyson AirWrap should be your weapon of choice. Here’s why: those long barrels. It’s like having a limo for your hair, allowing for those luxuriously long curls that both my daughter and I crave. For us Rapunzel wannabes, the Shark FlexStyle’s short barrels just can’t keep up. And let’s not forget the luscious, frizz-free curls that look like you just stepped out of a hair commercial. It’s the “extra cheese” on your pizza!

When to use Shark FlexStyle over Dyson: Drying

On the flip side, if drying, brushing, or diffusing are your go-to styling methods, or you’re rocking a shoulder-length ‘do or shorter, the Shark FlexStyle is your MVP. It dries like a hurricane and the diffuser attachment is second to none. Plus, let’s not ignore the fact that it’s easier on the wallet. If the Dyson AirWrap is a swanky five-star meal, then the Shark FlexStyle is your favorite comfort food that never disappoints.

Everything you need for your hair
A great, budget item alternative
Primary Rating:
4.5
Primary Rating:
4.4
$599
$319
Pros:
  • Long Barrels for Long Hair: Great for long hair.
  • Gentle Heat: Easier to use on kids
  • Barrel Versatility: Curl direction changes easily.
Pros:
  • Quick Drying: Dries hair fast.
  • Strong Heat: Locks styles in place.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced at $350.
Cons:
  • High Price: Costs around $600.
  • Slow Drying: Not the fastest dryer.
  • Reliability Issues: Can be inconsistent.
Cons:
  • Short Barrels: Not great for long hair.
  • High Heat Risk: Can damage hair.
  • Attachment Limitations: Fewer brush options available.
Everything you need for your hair
Primary Rating:
4.5
$599
Pros:
  • Long Barrels for Long Hair: Great for long hair.
  • Gentle Heat: Easier to use on kids
  • Barrel Versatility: Curl direction changes easily.
Cons:
  • High Price: Costs around $600.
  • Slow Drying: Not the fastest dryer.
  • Reliability Issues: Can be inconsistent.
A great, budget item alternative
Primary Rating:
4.4
$319
Pros:
  • Quick Drying: Dries hair fast.
  • Strong Heat: Locks styles in place.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced at $350.
Cons:
  • Short Barrels: Not great for long hair.
  • High Heat Risk: Can damage hair.
  • Attachment Limitations: Fewer brush options available.

Bang for Your Buc

From a pure cost-benefit perspective, the Shark FlexStyle takes the lead with its lower price point. It’s like getting a one-stop shop for all your hair needs without emptying your wallet. But if you’re all about those curls and don’t mind spending a little extra, the Dyson AirWrap might be worth every penny.

So in conclusion, whether you’re in Team Shark or Team Dyson, both tools offer something for everyone and hair types. Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific hair needs and which attachments you’ll be reaching for the most. Choose wisely, and may the best curls win!

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