I really like the new KYB Monomax shocks I just got.
too bad it's not 4wd -- I have a brand new set of the KYB Gas-a-just shocks in the garage that were a lifetime replacement for my old set before I got the monomax.

Anyway, KYBs are nice. they're firm but not rough and very nicely priced -- around $38 for the Gas-a-just, and about $50 for the Monomax. for your application, I'd say Gas-a-just. it's all I've run on any of my vehicles over the past 8 years once I discovered them after looking for a set for my old '86 2wd Toyota.

msg - '87 xtracab