what exactly is a mono-tube shock?

i assume gas filled are better?

can you run them without the boot? i kinda like the way the silver piston looks..

thanks
steve

 

i answered some of my own questions from the FAQ page...

still wonder about people opinions about boots..

 

I have had a TF 2.5 coil with the 9550 shocks since about 3k miles... I am now at just under 10k miles - I have no boots (they didnt come with them) I like the look and I havent had any issues that I know of

 

The boot is suppose to provide a little extra protection against debris. I don't find its really all that effective

 

The theory is that the boot should protect the shaft and seal (and look cool), but the reality is that while they may keep a bunch of stuff out, the stuff that does get in is trapped and will build up and do more harm than good.
They were a big fad in the eighties, you could get them in all sorts of bright colors.
I'd say go without.