Shock boots or no boots?

I did a shackle flip about a month ago and the boots on my new shocks already look like crap. I was looking for new boots on Google and came across a lot of links where people say they actually do more damage by traping dirt and crud inside of them. ive also noticed a lot of trucks on here without boots. I prefer the look without boots but I always figured they were there for a reason and that was that. So with that said boots or no boots?

 

It's the wiper that the shaft moves in and out of that keeps the shaft from taking debris into the shock.

You have to decide if you believe what you read on the internet or what engineers design.

It's also partially based on how you use the vehicle and if you make any routine efforts at undercarriage cleaning.

However, if the boot does not fit correctly (meaning it tears too soon, isn't snug, etc) it certainly won't do what it's supposed to.

 

I'll bump this for a question. I just got under the truck to re torque my lower shock mounts and when my hand hit the boot a solid two tablespoons of water came pooring out. We had a pretty serious rain yesterday but today is hot and dry. The boots are obviously keeping water in there. Any issues having this much moisture in there? The water was clear and clean of and debris or rust.