Shark's New Wet-to-Dry Straightener Takes on Dyson and ghd at a Lower Price Point
In an exclusive review, Shark's brand new SilkiPro Straight wet-to-dry straightener has been tested against high-end competitors like Dyson and ghd, offering a potential salon-quality alternative at a significantly reduced cost. Priced at £249.99, this innovative tool aims to streamline hair styling routines by combining drying and straightening functions, promising less heat damage and enhanced efficiency for users across various hair types.
Key Features of the Shark SilkiPro Straight
The Shark SilkiPro Straight introduces several advanced features designed to rival premium hair tools. Its Wet-to-dry styling technology allows hair to be smoothed as it dries, eliminating the need for a separate blow-dry step. The tool incorporates RapidDry technology with high-velocity airflow to accelerate the styling process, alongside HeatSense ceramic plates that measure heat 1,000 times per second to maintain optimal temperature control.
Additional elements include three interchangeable Silki Smooth combs to increase tension and guide hair through the plates, a free-standing design for convenient storage on dressing tables, and multi-style capabilities. Although primarily marketed as a straightener, it can also be used for shaping, waving, or curling hair, providing versatility in styling options.
Performance Comparison with Dyson and ghd
During testing on fine, straight hair, the Shark SilkiPro delivered smooth and glossy results, reducing styling time by allowing use from damp hair without prior rough-drying. It produced less static compared to traditional straighteners, though it required multiple passes rather than being a single-pass tool. For individuals with thicker, wavier, or frizz-prone hair, the comb tension and airflow combination is expected to yield more dramatic transformations, justifying the investment.
When compared to the Dyson Airstrait, priced at £450, the Shark SilkiPro presents a steeper learning curve due to its three-phase styling process—stretch, smooth, style. However, Dyson's tool avoids ceramic plates entirely, relying solely on airflow, which may appeal to those prioritizing minimal heat damage. Against the ghd Duet Style, costing £379, which similarly uses ceramic plates and airflow for simultaneous drying and straightening, the Shark tool feels heavier but offers better control through its comb attachments, though ghd is noted for achieving an ultra-glass shine finish.
Practical Usage and Limitations
In practical application, the Shark SilkiPro proved effective for straightening but less successful for creating waves, as its large size and loose clamp made it challenging to maintain hair within the plates during twisting. Users should note that incorrect angling, such as having the 'Shark' logo upside down, can disrupt airflow and affect styling. The three combs, while useful for tension, may pinch and pull out strands on finer hair types, as experienced during testing where opting for airflow and plates alone improved results.
Overall, the Shark SilkiPro Straight is recommended for those with thicker or textured hair seeking to simplify their routine, though it may be excessive for individuals with fine, already-straight hair. While it offers luxury and effectiveness, some testers still prefer alternatives like the Dyson Airwrap with round brush attachments for their specific needs.
