Best Shock Absorbers for 4WD Touring and Off-Roading

Why Shocks Matter for 4WD Adventures

When you’re tackling corrugated tracks, long dirt roads, or rocky bush trails, your shock absorbers are doing the heavy lifting. They control how your suspension reacts to bumps, keep your tyres in contact with the ground, and ultimately decide whether your drive feels stable or like a rodeo. For touring and serious off-roading, stock shocks on vehicles like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, or Isuzu D-Max usually don’t cut it for long — especially once you start loading them up with touring gear.

Foam Cell vs Gas Shocks

One of the first decisions is whether to go for foam cell or gas shocks.

• Foam Cell Shocks – Often considered a mid-range touring option. They handle heat well over long distances and are less likely to fade on endless corrugations. They’re reliable without breaking the bank. Many Hilux and Mitsubishi Triton owners doing big outback kilometres often lean toward foam cells.

• Nitro Gas Shocks – Usually more budget-friendly than foam cell. They’re responsive, good for lighter loads or weekend trips, but can heat up faster if you’re touring long distances. A common pick for Nissan Navara drivers who mostly stick to lighter off-road work or mixed city-country driving.

Both are solid choices, but if you’re spending weeks on the road fully loaded, foam cell usually wins out.

Heavy-Duty Touring Options

For fully loaded touring rigs — think bullbar, winch, dual batteries, rooftop tent, drawers and fridge in the back — heavy-duty shocks are a must.

• Old Man Emu BP-51s – Premium, adjustable, and engineered for comfort under weight. They’re on the expensive end but built for serious tourers. Popular among Land Cruiser 79 Series and big towing setups.

• Tough Dog Adjustable Shocks – Mid to high range. Good balance of adjustability and price, with a reputation for durability.

• Dobinsons Monotubes – Solid mid-range option, offering strong performance for loaded rigs without hitting the very top of the price scale.

Off-Road Performance Picks

If your weekends are all about technical tracks, steep climbs, and gnarly ruts, performance shocks are worth the extra spend.

• Bilstein B6/B8s – Mid to high range. They’re well-regarded for precise handling and are a favourite for those wanting a step up from factory gear. Often chosen by Jeep Wrangler or Toyota Prado owners who enjoy harder tracks.

• Fox 2.0 Performance Series – Premium, high-end option. Built tough, with excellent control and durability for hardcore off-roading.

Maintenance

Even the best shocks won’t last forever, especially in Australia’s harsh conditions. Dust, mud, and heavy loads take their toll. Check for leaks, uneven tyre wear, or that tell-tale bouncing feeling after a bump — these are signs it’s time for replacement. A set of quality shocks can easily give you 60,000–100,000 km of service if looked after properly.

Choosing the Right Shocks and Struts for Your 4WD

Touring and off-roading demand more than what factory shocks and struts usually deliver. Choosing the right set depends on your driving style, load, and how often you’re heading off the blacktop. If you’re on a tighter budget, nitro gas or mid-range monotubes might do the job. For those who spend more time out bush with a fully loaded rig, premium adjustables are well worth the investment for comfort, safety, and long-term reliability. And when it’s time to kit out your rig with the right suspension gear and more, our 4x4 accessories store has you covered with options to suit every adventure.