My favorite alternative to Dyson’s airwrap is $135 off right now

When it launched in 2018, the Dyson airwrap became the gold standard for hair styling at home. The tool’s been revamped a couple of times in the years since (the latest iteration will even use an app to personalize your routine), but one thing that’s stayed the same is the price.

Costing $600, the Dyson airwarp (Sephora.com) remains unattainable for most. The mark of any cult product, Dyson’s hair tool has inspired myriad affordable alternatives, including Revlon’s TikTok-viral one step volumiser (was $48.88, now $29.98, Walmart.com).

But it is Shark’s tool that blows most others out of the water. The famous vacuum brand tried its hand at hair tools in 2021 with the launch of its hairdryer. The flexstyle followed soon after in 2022, rivaling Dyson’s airwrap with its multi-functionality.

Drying and styling hair at the same time, it’s also powered by similar air technology to the airwrap, meaning it’s less damaging to your locks and scalp.

I have both the airwrap and flexstyle, and I can attest that both tools are a fast track to creating everything from a salon-quality bouncy blowdry to a super sleek look from the comfort of your own home. But, whenever a friend considers buying Dyson’s tool while bemoaning its cost, I steer them in the direction of Shark’s flexstyle (was $299.99, now $165, Walmart.com). And now that it has been reduced by 45 percent, I’m even more likely to do so. Here’s why.

How I tested

I’ve had the Shark flexstyle for nearly two years, using it for straight looks, wavy styles, and curly blow drys. I’ve got the tool with four attachments that have been designed for straight and wavy hair, but there’s also a version of the tool designed for curly and coily hair ($239, Walmart.com). From how easy it is to use and the time it takes to style to the finished results, here’s why Shark’s flexstyle offers stellar value for money.