I recently reviewed the Shark SpeedStyle Pro FLEX Hair Dryer System with my wife’s help, and while it was something I could use myself, it was better reviewed as a team. When it came to the Shark SilkiPro Straight, however, I was much more reliant on her input, as I am literally unable to use this on my much shorter hair.
So together, we unpacked the ins and outs of the Shark SilkiPro Straight and found it to be an incredibly versatile hair-styling option that could save you plenty of time in your daily beauty routine.
Design
Right out of the box, the Shark SilkiPro Straight is easy to use in the hand, and the controls are relatively self-explanatory. The only thing to note, however, is that it’s quite heavy. But it only feels that way if you’re viewing it as a standard straightener. Given the added dryer functionality, I commend them for cramming so much into this form factor.
In the box, you’ll find the main unit and three additional attachable combs, being the Wide Tooth Comb, Gentle Comb and Precision Comb.
Thankfully, the Shark SilkiPro Straight also comes with a really solid and premium-feeling storage bag, which wraps everything up nicely, a real bonus for travelling.
The included combs are easy enough to attach, and all the controls are located towards the bottom of the unit near your thumb. Around the other side, you’ll even find a locking switch that keeps the device closed when not in use.
The only real gripe here is the actual power plug. While it’s big and bulky, I find that’s much easier to forgive when compared to the Test Before Use and Reset buttons that need to be pressed every time you plug the unit in. I understand it’s there in the interest of safety, but it’s an extra step that you can regularly forget to take into account.
Performance
The Shark SilkiPro Straight’s main draw is the HeatSense Ceramic Plates and embedded combs, which make hair feel incredibly smooth, even if the wide-tooth comb can get slightly snagged on larger tangles within the hair. Even then, it was quite easy to work through them in the pre-dry phase, as it only takes a couple of runs to iron everything out. That being said, I would consider a light comb necessary in advance, to help the Shark SilkiPro Straight shave even more off your styling time.
While hair remains silky and smooth, it must also be noted that the HeatSense ceramic plates auto-adjust while styling, and my wife could not underestimate the lack of any heat damage in the process. Even if you feel like this might damage thicker hair, there are three adjustable heat settings to help you manage various hair types.
The three combs will also help you get the most out of those hair types and styles. The wide-tooth comb helps to work through curlier hair, while the gentle comb and precision comb work through thinner and more sensitive hair, respectively.
The Shark SilkPro Straight’s controls towards the bottom of the unit are relatively easy to use, giving you three settings for both blower speeds and temperature. The power switch underneath can be clicked upwards once to activate the hair straightener, and again for the dryer function.
A pre-applied sticker highlights this, although it can be removed for future use.
Another thing that stood out was the volume of the dryer. When comparing this to the Shark SpeedStyle Pro FLEX Hair Dryer System, a straightforward hair dryer, it was actually a little louder, which was surprising. Absolutely far from a dealbreaker, but worth noting nonetheless.
Overall, it’s the versatility of the Shark SilkiPro Straight that prevails, even if you might need a few days to learn how to use this as effectively as intended.
Verdict & Value
If you’re looking to simplify or save time on your daily hair styling routine, then the Shark SilkiPro Straight is a winner.
Complete with its multiple attachments, easy-to-use controls and HeatSense Ceramic Plates that automatically adjust to your hair, there’s plenty to love.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Solid build quality; Convenient and easy to use; Saves you plenty of time; Included combs help with various hair types
Lowlights: Combs can get snagged in hair; On the heavier side; Plug needs to be reset each time before use
Manufacturer: Shark
Price: A$399.99
Available: Now available via the official Shark website.
Review based on unit provided by Shark.
