Answering the buyer’s search for an extra step, this guide showcases five running board options that add safer footing and easier access to trucks and SUVs. Each pick targets a different vehicle type and use case, from heavy-duty work trucks to family daily drivers. The list helps you compare mounting style, material, and foot grip to choose the right fit for your ride and lifestyle.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Go Rhino RB10 / RB20 / RB30 Pair | Go Rhino! | Rugged work trucks with RB10/RB20/RB30 running boards | Galvanized steel with protective bedliner coating |
| COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards | COMNOVA AUTOPART | Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra crew cab pickups | 6″ wide, carbon steel, anti-slip steps |
| YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards | YZONA | Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra crew cabs | Two-tier design for lift kits and roof access |
| Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards | Tyger Auto | Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra crew cab | Oval tube design, wider 3.5″ step pad |
| AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards | AutoBull | Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra crew cab | Black textured aluminum; 6″ wide steps |
Go Rhino! Drop Steps Pair for RB10/RB20/RB30
Best for full-size or mid-size pickups that need robust rear drop steps. The Go Rhino 69420000T set is designed to fit RB10, RB20, or RB30 running boards, offering durable galvanized steel with a protective bedliner coating for rust resistance. This option is well suited for workers and families who frequently load and unload cargo from the rear of the vehicle. Caution: verify compatibility with your specific RB model to ensure a precise fit.
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards For Silverado
Best for Chevy Silverado/Sierra crew cab owners seeking a 6-inch wide, heavy-duty stepping surface. COMNOVA’s boards are made from carbon steel with anti-slip steps and a powder-coated finish for rust prevention. The design includes four brackets per side and a non-welded construction for simplified installation. Caution: not compatible with certain 2019 model variants; confirm fitment with your exact truck year and cab type.
YZONA Two-Stage Running Boards For Crew Cab
Best for crews with lift kits or larger tires needing enhanced reach. YZONA’s two-tier design provides a separate lower and upper step, aiding access to vehicles with higher ground clearance. Built from heavy-duty carbon steel with black powder coating, it supports substantial weight and includes a non-slip surface. Caution: verify exact cab dimensions to ensure full accessibility if your truck has aftermarket modifications.
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards
Best for compact to mid-size pickups seeking a low-profile, wider stepping surface. Tyger Auto’s TG-SS2C35068 features an oval tube design and a 3.5-inch step pad with a seamless E-coating and textured powder finish. This setup emphasizes corrosion protection and a stable grip. Caution: not compatible with all 2019 LD/Limited configurations; confirm your model before ordering.
AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards
Best for drivers who want a durable, rust-resistant aluminum side step with a modern look. AutoBull’s running boards are described as black textured aluminum with a 6-inch wide stepping surface and honeycomb center grip. This option aims to balance aesthetics with practical footing. Caution: aluminum boards require periodic inspection for mounting hardware and step pad wear to maintain grip over time.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Compatibility: Confirm cab type, door count, and model year against the product’s fitment notes to avoid mismatches.
- Material And Finish: Steel with rust protection lasts longer in harsh climates; aluminum saves weight but may have different load limits. Anti-slip surfaces improve safety in wet or muddy conditions.
- Step Width And Height: Wider steps offer more footing stability; lower heights ease entry for short riders or children, while higher steps can clear oversized tires and lift kits.
- Mounting Style: Some are full-length boards with brackets; others use drop steps or two-tier designs. Choose based on ease of installation and desired step reach.
- Weight Capacity: Check rated load per side to match typical passenger and cargo loads. Higher capacity is beneficial for work crews and families with frequent gear.
- Aesthetic and Finish: Powder coating or bedliner coatings help resist scratches and rust, preserving appearance in dusty, salty, or muddy environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main difference between running boards and drop steps?
– Running boards span along the side of the vehicle, while drop steps provide a step that drops down closer to ground level, typically mounted at the rear of the board for easier access. - Do running boards affect vehicle clearance or fuel economy?
– They can add slight weight and may affect clearance minimally; most modern designs are engineered to minimize impact on aerodynamics and clearance. - How do I choose the right width for stepping surfaces?
– A wider step reduces foot slips and provides stability, especially for users with bulky footwear or in wet conditions. - Are two-tier or multi-step designs better for lifted trucks?
– Yes, two-tier or multi-step designs offer lower primary steps for easier entry and taller secondary steps for reaching higher rails or roof. - What maintenance is required for metal running boards?
– Regular cleaning, inspection of mounting hardware, and touch-up or re-coating as needed to prevent rust and corrosion.