I recently had the opportunity to test some new tools. One of the flat irons that I had the good fortune to test was the FHI HEAT – Runway 1 Ceramic tourmaline styling iron. I love it. Why? It has a heating control that goes from 140 – 450 degrees. Why is this important? Because heat control is key to selecting the right temperature for the right texture. For example, if we were to use the temperature 450 degrees on medium wavy hair it would grab in the iron and not feel smooth. This is like using a too-hot clothing iron on fabric that is delicate; it makes the iron stick to the fabric. We might think that this iron isn’t very good because it isn’t very smooth; the truth is it was on a too hot temperature for the fabric. If you don’t get a smooth result, this tells me that the iron probably passed too quickly over a section of hair. This is especially true if the hair is course and dense. If the iron was on its hottest temperature, well, that tells me that the iron is suitable for hair that is fine or medium texture, not for hair that is coarse or curly. The white ceramic plates are evenly heated so there are no cool spots on the surface of the plates, giving a beautiful consistent result. This iron is great for flat ironing as well as waving and curling. It is a professional’s dream in that it performs at the flick of your wrist, with the balance feeling just right. The cord is a good length, and its not too short or too long. The only downside to this iron is where the controls are situated; inside just behind the plate, a very awkward place. Where would I put the controls? Right on cord. That is a great place for controls since it is easy to see and very assessable. I don’t know about you but I need tools that work on every texture of hair. This means I have to lug fewer irons in my already too heavy travel case. So, whether you carry your tools around in a kit like me or keep them in your salon, with the Runway 1, you won’t have to own another 1 1/2 inch flat iron. My rule: Hot tools have to be able to work on every texture to consolidate the weight in carrying around, and space in the salon, this tool delivers this important factor. My conclusions: This is a tool for the experienced hair finisher, if you use a Marcel grip curling iron and have a good understanding of the importance of wrist movement and control, this iron will take your creativity as far as you can imagine, this iron is for you. Like I said above, I love it! Look for the next iron I will be testing: the ERGO Mini Flat. Bye for now.