Shocks are really important for smoother rides, especially if you frequent rough roads. There are lots of options but Icon and Fox are the two most popular brands when it comes to shocks.
Icon shocks are digressive, less lasting, and easier to install. Fox shocks are linear, more lasting, and harder to install.
Shocks make your car rides smoother on less forgiving terrains. That’s why it is better to go with trusted options like Icon and Fox. But which one should you go for?
Here is a comparison to help you out.
A Quick Summary of the Comparison
| Features | Icon Shocks | Fox Shocks |
| Build and specs | Made for rough terrains, digressive | Made for street rides, linear |
| Durability and longevity | Less durable and last a shorter period | More durable and last longer |
| Ease of installation | Easier to install | Harder to install |
Key Differences Between Icon Shocks and Fox Shocks
Both brands are pretty close in terms of product quality, but there are still some differences between them that make them stand out.
Build and specs, durability and longevity, and ease of installation are the major differences between Icon and Fox shocks.
Here’s how the differences work out in both brands.
- Build And Specs
A lot of people don’t pay attention to what kind of shock they’re buying. Icon shocks are digressive and made for hard terrains.
They also give you a better lift. Fox shocks are more street-driving focused and the valves are linear.
If you’re a performance-based driver, like to race, or mostly drive on rough terrains then Icon shocks are for you.
They are made to handle rough terrains better.
Icon shocks have a digressive valve system. This means you get the best of both worlds – a smoother ride and better speed control.
Icon shocks also give better lift. It already comes prepped to give you 2.5 inches lift and of course, you can adjust it.
Fox shocks on the other hand have a linear valve system. So you’ll get better bump absorption. This makes the shocks better for street driving.
It doesn’t have to be a rough road either, Fox shocks are equally good in smooth and less smooth road conditions.
Also Read: Differences Between KYB Gas-A-Just And Bilstein 4600 Shock Absorbers.
- Durability And Longevity
This is probably the most important factor you should consider when you’re getting shocks. Icon shocks are pretty durable, but they aren’t exactly the most durable shocks out there.
They also last for a shorter time. Fox shocks on the other hand are the opposite, they’re both long-lasting and durable.
As amazing as Icon shocks are, every owner will admit that they fall a little short in the durability department. Their shocks can take whatever you throw their way, but not for long.
The shocks wear off super early and the sealing can have some issues. Overall, Icon shocks last for a much shorter time compared to Fox shocks.
Fox shocks are the complete opposite in this case. They’re super durable and last for a pretty long time. The shocks are also good in adjusting and have a pretty good rebuild schedule compared to Icon shocks.
- Ease of Installing
This probably doesn’t matter to the pros but for beginners, this can be a big thing. Icon shocks are more ready-to-go while Fox shocks need adjustments before you start setting them up.
Icon shocks have a pretty standard 2.5 inches lift that they come with. Since the lift is decent already, you can get straight to installing it on your vehicle.
The instructions are clearer too so you won’t have much trouble setting them up.
Fox shocks come with a 1 inch lift as default. This isn’t exactly a good height. So in almost all cases, you’ll have to adjust the lift before you can get to setting it up.
Plus the instructions are slightly tricky for them too so beginners might struggle a little.
Which Shock Should You Go For?
As any car owner and every car owner forum will tell you, shock options depend a lot on your use cases. But even then both Fox and Icon fit the bill for most people.
Not just that, they’re also pretty close in overall service. So choosing one of them is a little hard. As you can guess, there is no straightforward answer to this.
If you’re an off-road and rough terrain-frequenting person, then Icon shocks are your best option.
They can take a good pounding because they are specifically made for rough rides.
These shocks are digressive so you get both a smooth ride and speed.
They also have better lift height and are easier to install compared to Fox shocks.
The only problem is their longevity.
They’re durable, sure, but they don’t last long compared to Fox shocks. The sealing starts wearing off faster and their rebuild schedule is pretty soon compared to Fox.
But they’re on the affordable side of the options so that’s a plus.
If you mostly drive on the streets or aren’t into heavy-duty things, Fox shocks are better for you. Fox shocks are made to give you a smoother ride on a more forgiving terrain.
They’re linear so you won’t have to worry about the bumps you face.
Plus Fox shocks last super long compared to the Icon ones. The only problem is, they’re harder to install compared to Icon shocks. You’ll have to make some adjustments before you can start setting it up.
Overall, Fox shocks are the better choice in this case. But if you mostly ride on rough terrains or want something affordable, then Icon shocks are a solid option.
Also Read: Are TRQ Struts Better Than Monroe Struts?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Icon shocks are made by the USA-based company Icon Vehicle Dynamics.
Depends on your use case and preference. If you’re mostly a street driver then yes, Fox is better.
Depends on what you’re looking for. Fox is better at bump-absorbing and Bilstein is better in terms of handling.
Both are good but Fox shocks use better quality materials.
Yes, Fox shocks are amazing for daily driving.
Final Verdict
If you’re a car owner, you know how much shocks can change your driving experience. Icon and Fox- both make quality shocks. So the winner of the Icon and Fox shocks debate depends on preference.
Objectively, Fox shocks are better options.
But if you want something affordable or for rough terrains, Icon is a good option.
