Gas-pressurized shocks have been available for over 30 years and like non-pressurized shocks, they use shock oil as a damping medium.

In a gas-pressurized design, the oil inside the shock body is pressurized to minimize the negative effects of foaming or cavitation. For maximum performance, the shock piston must work in clear oil. Oil naturally has some air bound up in solution. When the shock's piston moves through the oil, a pressure drop is created behind the piston, which permits air to come out of solution, so oil foaming occurs. By maintaining gas pressure on the oil, foaming is reduced.

There are two types of gas-pressurized shocks, monotube high-pressure and twin-tube low-pressure. Generally, a twin-tube low-pressure shock provides a better ride for a given level of control compared to a monotube high-pressure style.