Updated for Winter on 2022-12-06.
With our Winter 2023 update, we set our sights on running boards that will offer a trustworthy step through all the muck and mess of the snowy, colder Winter months. Even muddy work boots can still find a sturdy step on these durable, tractioned, Winter-ready running boards.
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 |
AMP Research PowerStep | AMP Research PowerStep XL Running Boards | Luverne Grip Step Running Boards |
- The Best Running Boards
- 10. Raptor Slide Track Oval Running Boards
- 9. Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme DS Running Boards
- 8. AMP Research PowerStep Smart Series Running Boards
- 7. Luverne Grip Step Running Boards
- 6. AMP Research PowerStep XL Running Boards
- 5. Raptor OEM Running Boards
- 4. Steelcraft STX100 Series Running Boards
- 3. Go Rhino E-BOARD E1 Electric Running Boards
- 2. N-Fab RKR Step Rails
- 1. AMP Research PowerStep
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 2023, complete with customer reviews. Take a look.
The Best Running Boards
10. Raptor Slide Track Oval Running Boards
For a nerf bar look with running board coverage, Raptor Slide Track Oval Running Boards do it all. Angled end caps bring an aggressive style to your truck when you sport these boards. Simply bolting into the pre-drilled holes in your make and model’s frame, each of these steps can easily support up to 400 lbs. The 5” step pads ensure you always have plenty of space to step up.
Pros: Aggressive angular design
Cons: Very close to rocker panel
Quality running boards at a good price. Very easy to install ( 1 socket is all that is needed) would buy again.
Read More Raptor Slide Track Oval Running Boards Reviews
9. Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme DS Running Boards
Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme DS Running Boards were designed for the driver who is tough on his rig. Their durable steel construction provides a sturdy step up into your vehicle and also offers slider protection along the rocker panel. Durability and protection aren’t the only benefits of these boards. They also sport a wide stepping surface, styled with a raised hexagonal pattern that ensures your boots don’t slip upon entry or exit.
Pros: Vehicle-specific design for a perfect fit
Cons: Lackluster mounting brackets
Love these sideboards! Super easy to install in under thirty minutes! Awesome styling, put them on my Jeep Wrangler! AAG got them to me in two days from ordering! UNBELIEVABLE SERVICE!
Read More Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme DS Running Boards Reviews
8. AMP Research PowerStep Smart Series Running Boards
From automatic extension to LED lighting, you get all the cutting-edge features with AMP Research PowerStep Smart Series Running Boards. These durable boards connect with your smartphone allowing you to customize their deployment and alter the settings of the integrated LED lights. Each set comes custom-made to fit your make and model exactly and AMP Research covers the boards with a 5-Year Warranty.
Pros: Fully loaded with advanced features
Cons: More potential failure points
I am very pleased with the amp running boards. I have had many compliments already and am telling everyone where they came from. My mechanic said it was a little tricky to install the electric but it turned out excellent. Now I can get into my lifted Toyota Tacoma. Thanks for designing these 1st class running boards. Amazed that they even have lights.
Read More AMP Research PowerStep Smart Series Running Boards Reviews
7. Luverne Grip Step Running Boards
Luverne Grip Step Running Boards are your answer when you need a running board with an unbeatable grip. The traction pattern keeps you from slipping but can also serve as a handy boot scraper to keep you from tracking snow, dirt, and mud into your vehicle. The boards are made from strong 5052-H32 Aluminum and are finished in a rust-resistant textured black powder coat.
Pros: Unbeatable grip to keep you from slipping
Cons: Not as versatile as automated boards
Quick delivery. The rear step looks very nice and is heavy duty. It was very easy to install on my Sprinter van. I would recommend this to anyone.
Read More Luverne Grip Step Running Boards Reviews
6. AMP Research PowerStep XL Running Boards
AMP Research PowerStep XL Running Boards are made of tough, die-cast aluminum and support up to 600 pounds of weight on each step. In contrast to the base AMP PowerStep model, these running boards are designed to hang three inches lower, which makes them a perfect option for lifted trucks. After all, an extra-large truck requires extra large steps not only for you, but for your passengers too!
Pros: Extend even lower than the base PowerStep model; great for lifted truck
Cons: The price point is higher than most running boards
Great product but did not take in consideration fender flares on certain model trucks as my Ram 2500 came from factory with them and I had a tough time getting over them. Also Amp Research has a great tech team.
Read More AMP Research PowerStep XL Running Boards Reviews
5. Raptor OEM Running Boards
Functionality outweighs flashiness in the Raptor OEM Running Boards, but sometimes that’s just what the doctor ordered! In fact, these boards are designed to look more like an OE feature of your rig, less like an aftermarket upgrade. At 6” wide and holding up to 400 pounds on each side of your truck, Raptor OEM Running Boards are built to take on anything. The hearty textured stepping surfaces come in handy in any part of the country.
Pros: Forged from aircraft-grade Aluminum for superior strength and durability
Cons: Not as flashy as other running boards
36 minutes: that is reading directions and collecting a few tools and installing! An important thing was getting the threaded studs on the RAM checked out by the dealer. They needed a little attention. Maybe a prior owner messed up threads a little, but once that was good, very smooth. I like the width of these, because it is super practical and safe. Non slip. Good! Lightweight due to Aluminum. Good price. Chrome on truck and silver color of the board looks good. Glad I got them!
Read More Raptor OEM Running Boards Reviews
4. Steelcraft STX100 Series Running Boards
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
3. Go Rhino E-BOARD E1 Electric Running Boards
When Go Rhino got into the electric running board game, the entire industry took notice. The E-Board E1 Electric Running Boards can hold as much as 300 pounds on each step and require no drilling for installation. The durable aluminum construction is lightweight and comes finished with an anti-slip surface. What’s more, integrated LED lights illuminate your step even after dark for a safe and stylish step up.
Pros: Electric boards with integrated LED lighting
Cons: More expensive than static running boards
2. N-Fab RKR Step Rails
Built tough from 1.75” tubular Steel, N-Fab RKR Step rails are durable and good-looking. Each set includes a set of detachable steps that you can place or remove for a one-of-a-kind look. A rust-resistant finish keeps these boards looking great for years to come. Plus, all of the hardware is included for a simple bolt-on installation that won’t require any drilling or permanent mods to your truck or SUV.
Pros: Customizable step position
Cons: Lining up mounting brackets can be tricky
These are definitely heavy duty. More impressive in person.
Read More N-Fab RKR Step Rails Reviews
1. AMP Research PowerStep
You know them, you love them, AMP Research PowerSteps. They extend for a sturdy step every time you open your doors and retract to hug your rig’s frame line when your doors are closed. They’re sleek and futuristic, and onlookers are bound to take notice. They can hold up to 600 lbs of weight on each step and the installation process couldn’t be easier. Just plug these steps directly into your OBD-II port and you’ll be ready to go.
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