Dyson Airwrap Vs Shark Flexstyle Does The Cheaper Dupe Actually Hold Curls As Long

When it comes to at-home hairstyling tools, few devices have generated as much buzz as the Dyson Airwrap. With its innovative use of Coanda airflow and high price tag—often hovering around $600—it's become a status symbol for beauty enthusiasts. But in recent years, a more affordable contender has emerged: the Shark FlexStyle. Priced under $200, it promises similar technology and results. The big question remains: can the Shark FlexStyle really compete with the Dyson Airwrap when it comes to curl retention and overall performance?

This isn’t just about saving money. It’s about whether that savings comes at the cost of quality. After weeks of testing both devices on different hair types, textures, and lengths, we’ve gathered real-world data on how long curls last, how easy each tool is to use, and what you’re actually paying for.

How They Work: The Science Behind the Suction

Both the Dyson Airwrap and the Shark FlexStyle rely on a principle called the Coanda effect—the tendency of a fluid jet (in this case, air) to stay attached to a curved surface. This allows the tools to wrap hair around the barrel without direct clamping or excessive heat, theoretically reducing damage while creating bouncy, defined curls.

The Dyson Airwrap uses a digital motor that spins at up to 110,000 RPM to generate high-velocity airflow. It pulls hair toward the barrel and wraps it automatically, minimizing user error. The Shark FlexStyle mimics this design with its own “FlexShaft” technology and dual airflow system. While it doesn’t match Dyson’s motor speed, Shark claims its airflow is optimized for consistent curl formation across hair types.

One key difference lies in temperature control. The Dyson features intelligent heat regulation with sensors that measure air temperature over 40 times per second, preventing extreme heat spikes. The Shark includes multiple heat settings but lacks real-time monitoring, relying instead on preset levels.

“Tools that manage heat dynamically reduce cumulative damage over time, even if styling temperatures seem similar.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Trichologist & Hair Technology Researcher

Curl Longevity: Real-World Testing Across Hair Types

To determine which tool holds curls longer, we conducted a controlled test using three participants with different hair profiles:

• Participant A: Fine, straight hair (shoulder-length)
• Participant B: Medium-thick, wavy hair (mid-back length)
• Participant C: Thick, coarse, naturally curly hair (above shoulder)

All users washed their hair the night before, applied the same lightweight mousse, and styled in the morning using the round brush attachment first, followed by the curling barrels (right and left). Curls were set without additional product, and participants avoided touching their hair throughout the day.

Results After 8 Hours

Hair Type	Dyson Airwrap Curl Hold	Shark FlexStyle Curl Hold	Notes
Fine, straight	7/10 – Slight drop in volume, ends loosened	5/10 – Curls dropped significantly by midday	Dyson maintained root lift better
Medium, wavy	8/10 – Defined pattern, minimal frizz	7/10 – Softer wave, slight frizz near ears	Close result; Dyson edges out on definition
Thick, coarse	6/10 – Some sections resisted wrapping, uneven hold	7/10 – Surprisingly consistent, held tighter at roots	Shark performed better on dense textures

After 12 hours, the Dyson generally retained more shape, especially in fine-to-medium hair. However, in thick, resistant hair, the Shark FlexStyle delivered surprisingly resilient curls—likely due to its slightly higher sustained heat output on the high setting.

Tip: For maximum curl longevity, apply a light-hold mousse before styling and avoid brushing curls post-styling. Finger-coiling loose ends can revive shape.

Design, Usability, and User Experience

Beyond performance, daily usability plays a major role in whether a styling tool earns a permanent spot in your routine.

The Dyson Airwrap feels premium—its matte finish, balanced weight, and quiet operation contribute to a luxury experience. Attachments snap in securely and are color-coded for ease. The cord is long (almost 10 feet), and the device heats up in under 30 seconds.

The Shark FlexStyle takes a modular approach. Its detachable wand allows switching between drying, smoothing, and curling functions. This flexibility is useful, but the attachments feel less refined. Some testers reported occasional misalignment with the barrel, causing inconsistent airflow. The unit is also noticeably louder, with a high-pitched whir during use.

One advantage the Shark holds: it comes with a travel pouch and universal voltage support—ideal for international travelers. The Dyson requires a separate adapter and doesn’t include a case in all regions.

Step-by-Step: Creating Long-Lasting Curls with Either Tool

1. Prep clean, towel-dried hair – About 70–80% dry is ideal. Too wet, and curls won’t set; too dry, and they won’t form properly.
2. Apply a heat protectant and light styling product – A mousse or curl-enhancing cream helps build memory in the hair shaft.
3. Section hair – Use clips to divide into 4–6 sections depending on thickness.
4. Select the right barrel size – 1.2” for loose waves, 0.7” for tight spirals. Larger barrels tend to last longer.
5. Hold each section for 15–20 seconds – Let the tool do the work. Don’t force hair onto the barrel.
6. Let curls cool before touching – Cooling sets the hydrogen bonds in hair. Run fingers through too soon, and the curl collapses.
7. Lock in with flexible-hold hairspray – A light mist preserves shape without crunch.

Expert Verdict: What You’re Paying For

The Dyson Airwrap delivers superior consistency, especially on finer hair types. Its precision engineering, intelligent heat control, and quieter operation justify part of the premium. More importantly, its ability to create long-lasting curls with minimal damage makes it a worthwhile investment for those who style frequently.

But the Shark FlexStyle isn’t just a “dupe”—it’s a legitimate alternative. In our tests, it held curls within 10–15% of the Dyson’s performance on most hair types and even outperformed it on thick, coarse textures. At one-third the price, it offers remarkable value.

Where the Shark falls short is in refinement: the noise level, attachment fit, and lack of real-time heat regulation make it feel like a prototype compared to Dyson’s polished ecosystem. Still, for someone who styles occasionally or wants to test the Coanda concept without financial commitment, the FlexStyle is an excellent entry point.

“The gap between premium and mid-tier tools has narrowed dramatically. Today’s ‘dupes’ aren’t just copying—they’re innovating.” — Marcus Reed, Lead Stylist at Forma Studio, NYC

Mini Case Study: Two Sisters, Two Tools, One Weekend

Sisters Jenna and Naomi decided to test both tools during a weekend getaway. Jenna, with fine, straight hair, used the Dyson Airwrap. Naomi, with thick, coily 3C hair, opted for the Shark FlexStyle.

Jenna styled first. Her hair took about 25 minutes from start to finish. By evening, her curls still had bounce, though she noticed slight flattening at the crown. She reapplied a tiny amount of texture spray and revived the look easily.

Naomi spent nearly 40 minutes styling due to her hair density. She used the high heat setting on the Shark and wrapped smaller sections. To her surprise, her curls held strongly through dinner and dancing. On day two, she woke up with defined waves—something she rarely achieved with traditional irons.

“I didn’t expect the Shark to work this well,” Naomi said. “It’s loud, yeah, but my curls lasted longer than they do with my flat iron.”

Jenna loved the Dyson’s ease but admitted, “If I didn’t style every day, I wouldn’t spend this much.”

Comparison Checklist: Which Tool Is Right for You?

Checklist: Ask yourself these questions before buying:

• Do I style my hair daily? → If yes, consider Dyson for durability.
• Is my hair fine or medium? → Dyson typically performs better here.
• Is my hair thick or coarse? → Shark may surprise you with hold.
• Am I budget-conscious? → Shark offers 80% of the performance at 30% of the cost.
• Do I travel often? → Shark includes a travel case and dual voltage.
• Do I prioritize quiet operation? → Dyson is significantly quieter.

FAQ

Can the Shark FlexStyle truly replace the Dyson Airwrap?

For many users, yes—especially those with medium to thick hair. It won’t match Dyson’s precision or build quality, but it delivers comparable curl longevity in real-world conditions. If you’re not a professional stylist or don’t style daily, the Shark is a smart alternative.

Does lower price mean more hair damage with the Shark?

Not necessarily. Both tools use ceramic coatings and multiple heat settings. However, Dyson’s real-time temperature monitoring reduces the risk of localized overheating. With careful use—avoiding the highest setting unnecessarily—both tools can be safe for regular use.

Are the attachments interchangeable between Dyson and Shark?

No. Despite similar designs, the attachments are not compatible. Dyson uses proprietary magnetic fittings, while Shark relies on a twist-lock mechanism. Third-party accessories are limited for both.

Final Verdict: Does the Cheaper Dupe Hold Curls as Long?

The answer is nuanced. On average, the Dyson Airwrap produces slightly longer-lasting curls, particularly in fine and medium hair. Its advanced engineering ensures consistent results with less user effort. However, the Shark FlexStyle closes the gap significantly—especially on thicker, more resistant hair—and in some cases, matches or exceeds Dyson’s hold.

If your priority is performance above all, and you style regularly, the Dyson Airwrap remains the gold standard. But if you're looking for a capable, cost-effective tool that delivers salon-quality curls without draining your wallet, the Shark FlexStyle proves that the “dupe” label undersells its potential.

Ultimately, curl longevity depends as much on technique, hair type, and prep as it does on the tool itself. With proper use, both devices can create beautiful, enduring styles. The real winner? Consumers now have real choice in a market once dominated by one luxury player.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your styling game? Try the Shark FlexStyle if you're curious but cautious. Rent it first, borrow from a friend, or commit knowing you’ll get impressive results without the premium price. Share your own Airwrap vs FlexStyle experience in the comments!