Coil vs. Air: The Suspension Showdown
It's the oldest debate in the pits: the suppleness of coil vs. the tunability of air. In 2026, the gap is closer than ever, but the choice still defines your ride.
The Case for Coil
Coil shocks use a steel or titanium spring to support the rider. They are linear, meaning it takes the same amount of force to compress the shock at the beginning of the stroke as it does in the middle.
- Sensitivity: Nothing beats coil for erasing brake bumps.
- Consistency: No air seals means no friction, and no heat buildup changing the spring rate on 10-minute runs.
- Reliability: Set it and forget it.
Top Picks: Fox DHX2 and RockShox Super Deluxe Coil.
The Case for Air
Air shocks use compressed air as a spring. They are progressive, meaning they get harder to compress deeper in the travel.
- Tunability: Change spring rate with a pump. Change progression with volume spacers.
- Weight: Savings of 300-500g compared to coil.
- Pop: Great for jump lines like A-Line or Dirt Merchant.
Top Picks: Fox Float X2 and the massive RockShox Vivid Air.
The Verdict?
If you ride steep, rough, natural tracks (tech), go Coil. The grip is unmatched.
If you ride jump trails, smooth berms, or care about weight, go Air.