Running boards serve a number of purposes. First and foremost, they help you and your passengers climb up into your beefy rig, and climb out with minimal knee strain. They also tend to catch and deflect all kinds mud, muck, and debris, keeping your truck, van, or SUV’s finish free and clear of dings and scratches. Finally, they make your ride look tougher and trendier than ever before.
| BEST CHOICE | PREMIER PICK | BEST VALUE |
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| Dee Zee NX Series Running Boards | AMP Research PowerStep | Trident ToughBoard Running Boards |
- The Best Running Boards
- 10. Owens ClassicPro Aluminum Running Boards
- 9. Trident ToughBoard Running Boards
- 8. Romik RAL Running Boards
- 7. AMP Research PowerStep
- 6. Raptor SSR Running Boards
- 5. Trident StarBoard Running Boards
- 4. Owens Premier Series Running Boards
- 3. Westin Sure Grip Running Boards
- 2. Steelcraft STX100 Series Running Boards
- 1. Dee Zee NX Series Running Boards
Running boards are available in a wide variety of finishes and materials. Sturdy stainless-steel running boards can be ordered with a mirror-polished shine on each side. Lightweight Aluminum running boards may arrive with a rugged black powder coat finish that will stave of rust and corrosion and match any other black powder coated accessories your rig may already be sporting.
With so many sets of running boards on the market it’s hard to know which are the best for your set-up. That’s why we here at Auto Accessories Garage would like to lend our expertise. By taking a look at our top selling, and top rated running boards, we’ve narrowed the wide variety of available products down to what we consider to be the Top Ten Best Running Boards of 2021, complete with customer reviews. Take a look.
The Best Running Boards
10. Owens ClassicPro Aluminum Running Boards ($196.00 - 1,090.00)
ClassicPro Running Boards from Owens really take protection to the next level. The nice wide stepping surface will stop rocks, pebbles, and other road debris dead in their tracks. Plus, it also offers a firm and comfortable step with anti-slip traction that will help you and your passengers into your cab all year around. And thankfully, the lightweight Aluminum construction won’t weigh you down too much either.
Pros: Durable and available in a variety of finishes
Cons: Lightweight construction with limited capacity
I recently purchased a 2016 Ford [...] cutaway van with a Knaphiede KUV utility body and after searching the internet for some mud flaps for the front wheels (because everything I ran over was splashing up on the fenders, doors and utility body from the front wheels) I found under images on Google a picture of a truck like mine that had running boards and I thought “Wow! What a great idea!” Well it's not that easy. it seems nobody makes running boards or mud flaps for a 2016 E350 until I found Owens brand and that's what brought me to your site. Now after a great price and lightning fast delivery I received the high quality boards and they look and work great not only for the mud and dirt but make it so much easier to get in and out of my van!
Read More Owens ClassicPro Aluminum Running Boards Reviews
9. Trident ToughBoard Running Boards ($304.20 - 332.80)
With a 6.5” stepping surface and a 14-guage carbon steel deck, the Toughboards from Trident almost feel like overkill. But when sturdiness, structure, and style are all on your want list, these running boards will deliver in spades. Forged to fit your vehicle, these stainless steel steps are finished in a black powder coat for corrosion resistance.
Pros: Aggressively styled with ample traction
Cons: Installation requires measuring and drilling
I’m really into the industrial look of these running boards on my [Ford pickup truck]. These are solid boards and they make my truck look like a utility vehicle. I’m 6’5” and 350 lbs., these boards don’t flex and inch when I climb them. Great!
Read More Trident ToughBoard Running Boards Reviews
8. Romik RAL Running Boards ($493.90 - 654.50)
Perfect for beefy trucks and SUVs, Romik RAL Running Boards brings the thunder and good! These textured boards are designed to offer a reliable grip all year in any climate. Plus, the curved design will look great next to the natural curves of your truck or SUV. Best of all they come backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Pros: Wide variety of fitments for less common vehicles
Cons: Difficult installation process with poor instructions
These running boards give a sporty look to my Nissan. I watched a video online which made it easy to locate the bolts for install. The longest part was fishing the guide wire through the frame holes. At first they seemed 1-2 inches wider than I would like, yet as time passes I am more satisfied with them now.
Read More Romik RAL Running Boards Reviews
7. AMP Research PowerStep ($1,399.00 - 1,799.00)
You’ll really impress colleagues, coworkers, friends, and family when you’re rocking a set of PowerSteps. These automated steps from AMP Research extend when you open your doors, and retract when you close them. This sleek and futuristic movement is sure to turn heads and offers a practical step, supporting up to 600 lbs without issue. You can easily wire them directly to your OBD-II port, so no wire splitting or door removal is necessary.
Pros: High-quality, seamless design and functionality
Cons: Price point well above most stationary boards
Purchased them as a Xmas gift for myself for my 2016 [Dodge pickup truck] EcoDiesel 4x4. I had them installed by a local truck shop. They look GREAT and function as described. I like the clean look of the truck with the steps. I would purchase again.
Read More AMP Research PowerStep Reviews
6. Raptor SSR Running Boards ($289.99 - 349.99)
7” wide and weight rated to up to 400 lbs., Raptor SSR Running Boards are seriously sturdy. The 304 Stainless Steel construction doesn’t hurt either and mounting brackets come preinstalled for a superiorly simple installation. Non-slip pads give you a sturdy step in any weather and the deep grooves not only look good, but trap dirt, grime, and debris before it ever enters your vehicle.
Pros: Extra-wide 7” surface and 400 lbs. weight capacity
Cons: Light gauge stainless steel construction
Love them!!!!! I am only 4'9" and my hubby bought a 2013 chevy [pickup truck] 2500HD which is high off of the ground. I had to crawl in on my knees, but he installed these running boards and now its so easy to get into the truck!! Love them.
Read More Raptor SSR Running Boards Reviews
5. Trident StarBoard Running Boards ($296.81)
For SUV drivers, the Trident StarBoard Running Boards offer strength, style, and durability in an easy-to-install package. Each set of StarBoards are computer engineered to provide maximum strength and a perfect fit on your particular make and model of SUV. Trident backs these bad boys with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Pros: Injection-molded end caps and corrosion resistant surface
Cons: Drilling required for installation
These running boards are absolutely fantastic & a great touch to my Explorer.
Read More Trident StarBoard Running Boards Reviews
4. Owens Premier Series Running Boards ($334.00 - 633.00)
Great looks and great performance can be found at one place with the Owens Premier Series Running Boards. Available in your choice of wheel-to-wheel or cab-length, these ABS boards feature injection-molded steps and bring a sleek, custom look to your truck or SUV. Plus, these boards can be painted all over for a truly custom look.
Pros: Vehicle specific design for a perfect fit
Cons: Low-grade mounting brackets
I got these for my [SUV] so the little ones and grandparents could safely get in. They look great and installed pretty easy (I am told, as I had a mechanic friend install them). A 250 lbs. mechanic stood on them to fix our cargo rack and they boards did not even move.
Read More Owens Premier Series Running Boards Reviews
3. Westin Sure Grip Running Boards ($308.76 - 500.91)
A surefire addition to any truck or SUV, Westin Sure Grip Running Boards span the length of your cab and offer a weather-proof step all along the way. The molded end caps complete each end of each board for a complete and finished look that will elevate the style of your entire rig. And installation is so easy, you can put these on in your own driveway in less than an hour.
Pros: Sturdy construction and a variety of finishes
Cons: Professional installation recommended
The running boards went on smoothly, and look great. Now my wife can get into her SUV with no problems. We are happy that we ordered this product!! Also, the people that we spoke with before buying were very helpful!
Read More Westin Sure Grip Running Boards Reviews
2. Steelcraft STX100 Series Running Boards ($296.46)
As the top selling item in Steelcraft’s arsenal, you can expect the STX100 Series Running Boards to pack some serious punch - and they certainly do. Combining sleek style and rugged strength, these boards are forged from uncompromising T304 Stainless Steel. Each set is specifically designed to fit your make and model, and the Lifetime Warranty ensures that these bad boys will outlast your truck itself.
Pros: OEM-style look built from aircraft-grade Aluminum
Cons: Limited amount of fitments, SUV only
These running boards were the perfect quality and exact fit. I should have made this purchase years ago. Very glad I have them now.
Read More Steelcraft STX100 Series Running Boards Reviews
1. Dee Zee NX Series Running Boards ($354.26 - 552.61)
For truck and SUV drivers that like to put safety first, the NX Series Running Boards from Dee Zee simple can’t be beat. Custom designed for your vehicle, these wide steps not only stop rock and pebbles from scraping your vehicle, but they also feature raised rubber grommets to give you an uncompromisingly sure step in any climate or weather.
Pros: Easy installation with no drilling required
Cons: Delicate threading on bolt-holes can be tricky to reach
The running boards look great. We received the running boards in a few days and they were very easy to install. The included instructions were very detailed and included different models. I was able to install them by myself with no help. I would definitely buy them again.
Read More Dee Zee NX Series Running Boards Reviews
Running Boards Buying Guide
There are many different varieties of running boards out there, so how do you find the best running boardsfor your needs? Read on to learn about all of our styles, discover their many benefits, and find out what you need to consider when choosing the best running boards for your truck.
Running Board Types
Running boards offer a wider stepping surface than most nerf bars, and most also have a higher weight capacity. You can choose from a variety of designs and options and achieve the perfect style you're looking for.
Standard Running Boards
The most common running boards span the length of your front and rear doors, or come in wheel-to-wheel designs. They're available in a variety of materials and many models can be custom-painted or accessorized with lights.
Molded Steps
Many of our running boards are molded from tough UV-resistant polymers, with a rugged aluminum base board for high strength. Molded steps are a great choice if you want to custom-paint the steps to match your finish. Most feature a dark grey or black textured finish that's ready for primer and paint.
Aluminum & Stainless Steel Running Boards
If it's a more rugged and reflective look you're after, go with stainless steel or aluminum running boards. Manufactures like Dee Zee and Lund craft their boards from industrial-strength materials for excellent weight capacity and most include treaded step pads for sure footing in any weather.
Lighted Running Boards
Lighted running boards have the knockout combo of style and function. They're equipped with lights on either end that make the stepping area more visible at night and give your vehicle a stylish glow when you open the doors. Bak has options available in standard and lighted models, and Westin offers light kit upgrades.
Retracting Running Boards
Maybe you want the convenience of a running board but prefer the smooth looks and side clearance of going without side steps. Luckily, there's a solution for your needs - and it's a really cool solution!
High-tech running boards like the Amp Research Powerstep swing out from under your vehicle when you open your doors, and retract when you shut them so they're completely hidden while you drive. Plus, these steps extend much farther out than other permanently-mounted options, making it more comfortable and natural to step into your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Running Boards
Running boards give you and your passengers a boost up into your vehicle while also upgrading its exterior style. As with any automobile accessory, certain questions arise prior to purchasing. Below, you'll find a collection of common questions, and their answers, to aid you in your decision-making process.
- What is a running board?
- How much weight can a running board support?
- Will installing running boards void any part of my vehicle's warranty?
- Is it difficult to install a running board?
- Is it difficult to wire running board lights?
- Will my running boards scrape the ground as I drive?
Running Board FAQs Answers
What is a running board?
A running board stretches the length of your vehicle to provide a single, full, continuous step shared by both front and back seat passengers.
How much weight can a running board support?
The average running board can usually support up to 500 lbs. It is important to thoroughly read the manufacturer's instructions to find out exactly how much weight a particular running board can support.
Will installing running boards void any part of my vehicle's warranty?
Auto manufacturers include bracket mounting areas for bolting their own running boards and lights to a vehicle's frame. Nearly running board attaches to this area without any modification necessary. As such, since you are not altering anything, your vehicle's warranty will remain intact. (Note: While most of these products attach easily to the bracket mounting area, some do not. Please pay attention when purchasing and installing one of these implements.)
Is it difficult to install a running board?
They install via brackets to pre-approved mounting positions. The entire process is relatively painless. While it may require some time to do it exactly right, installing running boards yourself will save you money and bring untold satisfaction with every use because, hey, you did that. Good job.
Is it difficult to wire running board lights?
If you know your way around your vehicle's electrical circuitry, you shouldn't have any difficulty. However, even if you don't, adhering strictly to the manufacturer's directions will make the process as painless as possible. Further helping your cause, any running board light kit will come with all the equipment necessary for installation.
Will my running boards scrape the ground as I drive?
Nerf bar and running board clearance is going to depend on your vehicle's ground clearance. If your vehicle has been lowered, you may run into some difficulty with your running boards scraping the ground in certain situations (such as going over a speed bump). Make sure to take exact measurements and know your vehicle's dimensions and alterations before purchasing a running board to avoid an unfortunate surprise.
Running Boards Installation Instructions
- Open the box (naturally) and lay out all hardware and components, to make sure all necessary parts have been included.Helpful Tip: When the time comes to attach your mounting brackets, attach them loosely at first so you can make sure they fit before tightening them all the way down.
- Determine if your truck has a pre-drilled mounting holes. If not, you'll need to drill the requisite mounting holes in your truck's frame. Be VERY careful when drilling into your vehicle's frame, and make sure you are absolutely certain the maneuver is warranted before doing so, as drilling into your vehicle's frame can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
- Upon discovery or creation of mounting holes, locate the included mounting brackets. Attach these brackets to the mounting positions with the proper number of requisite fasteners, usually some sort of large bolt-and-spacer combination.
- Prior to attaching the running board, hold it up to the mounting brackets to make sure the mounting positions are exactly where they need to be. If movement is required, delicately set the running board aside and make the necessary adjustments. When the positions are determined to be correct, lock your mounting brackets into place as tight as possible.
- Hold the running board up to the mounting brackets one last time. Rest it on the mounting brackets, and move it as necessary to properly line up every last connection. When everything is in place, install all hardware (nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) up and down the running board. Tighten everything one final time.
- Enjoy the benefits a running board brings to your truck.
