Product · Shark
Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1: diffuser and paddle brush
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The FlexStyle 5-in-1 is Shark's core multi-styler, and this Stone version is the kit to look at if you want both a diffuser and a paddle brush. The handle twists from an upright styler into a conventional dryer shape, so it doubles as a normal hairdryer. That twist, together with a diffuser for curls, gives it a broader everyday role than styler-only rivals.
- Attachments
- 5
- Curl barrels
- 2 auto-wrap curlers
- Wattage
- 1,650 W
- Dryer mode
- Twist-to-dry body
In its favour
- Includes both a diffuser and a concentrator, so it works as a full dryer.
- Heat is measured 1,000 times per second, the listing says.
- 2 year guarantee on registration in the UK and ROI.
Good to know
- Curler sizes are not stated in this listing.
- At 700 g it is heavier than the Dyson Airwrap i.d.
Our take
The twist-to-dry design in practice
Shark describes the FlexStyle as a hair dryer that becomes an air styler with a twist. As a dryer, the concentrator and diffuser attach to the end. As a styler, the curlers and brushes attach in the straight position. For anyone who would otherwise keep a separate hairdryer, that is one less tool in the drawer.
Attachments and settings
The five attachments are two auto-wrap curlers, a paddle brush, an oval brush, a concentrator and a diffuser, and a styling guide is included. The curlers use Coanda airflow to wrap, curl and set, according to Shark.
The listing quotes 1,650 W with three speed and three heat settings. Heat is measured 1,000 times per second to keep air temperatures consistent, and Shark claims more smoothness and shine with less frizz versus air drying. Weight is given as 700 g. A two-year guarantee applies on registration in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
Long hair and textured hair
The paddle brush is the useful head for long hair, since it covers a wide section when smoothing lengths. The diffuser makes the set relevant for wavy and curly hair, which is not true of every multi-styler. Shark lists it for all hair types, though the curler diameter is not stated on this listing.
How it compares with the IonCurl and FlexStyle 3-in-1
The Shark FlexStyle IonCurl adds 200 million ions, CoandaBoost curling, Scalp Shield mode and a FrizzFighter polisher, at a higher 1,750 W. The Shark FlexStyle 3-in-1 trims the kit to curlers and an oval brush. This 5-in-1 sits between them and keeps the diffuser and paddle brush that the 3-in-1 drops. Neither alternative changes the basic FlexStyle idea, so the choice comes down to which heads you will actually reach for.
Verdict
Choose this FlexStyle 5-in-1 if you want a dryer and styler in one with a diffuser and paddle brush for longer or wavier hair. If frizz control is the main worry, the FlexStyle IonCurl adds more, and if you only want curls and a brush, the FlexStyle 3-in-1 is the simpler kit.
Compared with alternatives in: Best Airwrap-style multi-stylers, Best hot air brushes for fine hair, Best multi-stylers for long hair, Best multi-stylers under £400, Shark hair stylers compared: FlexStyle, Glam and SpeedStyle
Amazon listing title: Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer, Stone, HD446SLUK