Orange are the softest, like the soft setting on the yellows, is what I read.
I disagree with the statement that the shocks only affect the ride a little bit. Unless you have a ridiculously high spring rate, (for a lowered or track only car), the shocks’ valving will make the difference between feeling every expansion crack and rock or not, and floating or having very little
suspension travel over road variations.
Springs do matter in ride quality and handling, but they have to work with the dampers.
Example, on our first band wagon, I had the shocks and struts replaced, and they used the wrong KYB model. It went to riding like a freakin’ lumber wagon until we sold it. The next time, I was specific about which Monroe shocks and struts I wanted, and not only did it get rid of the rear float over big road dips it came with from the factory, it also rode smoother, even fully loaded.
The Oespectra dampers I put on my Grand Marquis restored both the ride and handling to smooth and more controled to cop car and taxi levels. I could have gone with something tighter, but these dampers and springs work well together.
You have to think about the whole package.