If you plan on getting new running boards, then you should know that they’re great if you want to give your car a new look, and the good news is that you can also buy them in a wide range of models. Even though they usually have specific uses, if you want, then you can also use running boards for decorative reasons.
If this is the first time you’re shopping for running boards, then you may feel a bit unsure about the things you should consider prior to getting some. Well, if that’s the case, then you should not worry about it. In the reviews below, we’ll tell you more about the top ten best running boards you can currently buy.
Advantages of Having Running Boards
Running board gives your truck a new look. Not only will your truck look great, but the running board will also protect your truck from getting damaged by high rock and algae. The rubber and plastic pad on top of the running board will make a tight grip for the person who’ll put their steps on it; it also helps and plays a support role for the old age people to get inside the truck easily.
Running boards are tough and are built for long life. Made from aluminium, steel, and other hard metals for a hard and solid job. These running boards are of different shapes and sizes to be fit easily on any truck. There are many companies in the market-making running boards, and they are having a serious competition between them in making the best of the best running boards in the world.
How to Install Running Boards?
Running boards are installed easily. Many running boards come with a kit in which they have bolts and screws to attach them to the body. There are brackets in the kit as well, which makes it easier to install. Many people sometimes have issues installing the running board on their vehicles.
To make it easier for them to install the running board, there are steps mentioned below; by reading them and following step by step, these points will surely help them install their running board easily.:
- Check the running board from every corner to see if the mount brackets are attached to the running board or not.
- If the mount brackets are not there, then buy the right size of mounts for the running board by telling the running board size dealer, and he’ll give you the right mounts for the board.
- Then check your vehicle to see whether there are holes in the body for the running board or not.
- If the hole is not given, then place your running board on the vehicles and mark the holes. After that, drill the body of your vehicle with the exact size of holes present in your mounts.
- Then bolt it accordingly so that the running board is not imbalanced
- If the mount is present with the running board, then mark the hole directly on the vehicle body by taking the size of the mounting hole and then drill the hole in the body of your vehicle
- Tight the bolts so that the running board doesn’t get imbalanced
- Make sure all the bolts are tightened properly so that the running board is installed and holds the load easily.
- After that, take a ride and check that they are not touching anything or making any sound.
- If they are not making any sound, then check the doors that are opening are clear or not; if not, then congratulations !! You have installed your running board.
Best Running Boards in [year]
Running boards come in different designs and shapes for every vehicle. Heavy-duty vehicles require heavy-duty running boards, while normal SUVs can hold a running board easily. Choosing the best running boards for the vehicle is a great challenge for people. Many don’t know about them. After reading our reviews of each of them, you’ll find it a lot easier to buy the right one or one for your needs. Let’s check out the list of the top 10 best running boards.
iBoard Running Boards
- Package includes: (2) iBoard running boards, mounting brackets and hardware kit for an easy DIY install
- SOLID RUNNING BOARD - 100% aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminum build, iBoard side steps offer the best in corrosion protection, durability, and strength (500 LBS load capacity)
- FULL COVERAGE STEP PAD - 4" wide corrugated non-slip step pad covers the entire running board, providing a secure, slip-proof, comfortable step for the whole family
- UNIQUE LOOK & DESIGN- Upgrade your truck's style with iBoard's clean, low profile design and look different with iBoard's silver aluminum finish
- Easy to install Rocker Panel Mount (Drilling Required), and Compatible with Ram 1500 2009-2018 Crew Cab & Ram 2500 3500 2010-2024
Designed and manufactured by APS, the iBoard is basically a new generation of running boards that are made to look and also feel different. One of the first things you’ll notice about them is that they have a very modern, clean, and flat profile, which gives you that nice special look you want.
In terms of build quality, they’re made of heavy-duty brackets and aluminium. Speaking of which, the brackets can support up to a hundred pounds without bending. As such, the iBoard is not only very well built, but at the same time, you won’t need to worry about it bending anytime soon. Installing them is a breeze and can be done by anyone. Maintenance is very simple and all you have to do is make sure you use nonabrasive cleaners to clean them and keep them in tip-top condition.
Other things you’ll love about these running boards include their very high corrosion and rust resistance, massive four-inch wide one-piece bars, and their special smartphone-style design.
Pros
- Very resistant to corrosion and rust.
- Large four-inch wide solid 1 piece bars.
- Features an ultraviolet, non-slip, UV-resistant rubber pad.
Cons
- Someone who got these running boards said that the support brackets hang below and this is not shown in the pictures of the product.
If you really want to get new running boards, then you may want to check out these ones. Not only are they extremely well made, but they also have a very special design.
Reason to Buy:
- Tough build quality for long life
- Fits easily on the truck
- Aluminium build, which does not get rust
- Unique look with a rubber pad on it
iBoard Running Boards Custom Fit (Five inches)
- Attractive design with a streamlined, modern look
- Solid 304 Stainless Steel Construction: iBoard running boards offer the best in corrosion protection, durability, and strength (500 LBS load capacity)
- FULL COVERAGE STEP PAD - 5" wide corrugated non-slip step pad covers the entire running board, providing a secure, slip-proof, comfortable step for the whole family
- UNIQUE LOOK & DESIGN- Upgrade your truck's style with iBoard's clean, low profile design and look different with iBoard's stainless steel polished finish
- Easy to install Rocker Panel Mount (Drilling Required), and Compatible with Ram 1500 2009-2018 Crew Cab & Ram 2500 3500 2010-2024
If you really want to get in your car a lot easier, then you should certainly get these running boards. The five-inch iBoard running boards come with weld-on metal ends which means that they’re going to stay on permanently.
They’re also resistant to rust and waterproof, and you’ll be happy to know that they make your truck look like it’s brand new.
These are built for comfort and safety and have complete coverage from one end to another, include premium quality rubber, and feature a grooved trade for more traction and comfort. Designed and manufactured in the USA.
Pros
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminium.
- Includes driver and passenger sideboards.
- Rust and corrosion-resistant.
Cons
- A buyer who got these said that they don’t work on a ’16 Ram fifteen hundred Crew cab.
Those who want to get their hands on some really nice-looking running boards may want to check out the iBoard five-inch running boards.
These are extremely sturdy, look amazing, and will last you for a very long time as well.
Highly recommended.
Reason to Buy:
- The whole top is covered with a rubber pad
- Sleek and low-profile design
- It comes with mountain brackets and a hardware kit for easy instalment.
- Made from silver aluminium for shine.
iBoard Running Boards Matte Black Custom Fit (Five inches)
- Sleek Black Finish: Black powder-coated finish with triple-layer protection for a stylish and durable look.
- Integrated Design: Seamless, unified appearance with integrated end caps for a sleek and polished look.
- Premium Material: Made from high-grade 304 stainless steel with nickel and chromium for outstanding corrosion resistance.
- Anti-Slip Step Pad: 5-inch wide anti-slip step pad covers the entire iBoard, providing a secure and comfortable step.
- Superior Strength: Supports up to 500 lbs, ensuring a safe and reliable step for all passengers.
Are you looking for new running boards because your old ones are either broken or look too old? Well, no matt the reason, the good news is that you can easily replace them with the iBoard five-inch running boards.
One of the things you’ll love about these, among many others, is the fact that they are not only rust-resistant, but they’re also waterproof. When you put these on, your truck will look brand new.
Since they have weld-on ends, they’re going to stay on permanently. These boards look solid from every angle, have a black powdered coat for a beautiful matte finish, are made of aircraft-grade aluminium, and are also designed and made in the United States.
Pros
- Made of high-quality aircraft-grade aluminium.
- Waterproof and corrosion-resistant.
- Solid one-piece boards.
- Come with premium rubber for that extra grip.
Cons
- Installing these may not be as easy as some people think.
Do you want to replace your running boards with a pair of new ones that look modern and are also corrosion and rust-resistant?
If that’s the case, then you should get the iBoard running boards as soon as possible.
Highly recommended!
Reason to Buy:
- Black matt colour for a beast look
- Fits easily
- Full-covered step pad
- Low profile design
Westin 23-1680 Polished Step Bars
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For the perfect fit, regardless of the truck model you have, the Westin 23-1680 running boards are some of the best you can currently get.
One thing you’ll once about them is that they actually use your vehicle’s existing frame holes so that you can install them without any drilling.
The boards are made of high-quality three-inch steel tubing with a polymer bar that is resistant to ultraviolet rays. They also come with a five-year warranty. Bolt-on installation is also possible.
Pros
- Five-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Simple bolt-on installation.
- Made of high-quality steel tubing (three-inch, polished).
Cons
- A buyer of these boards said that the first they got didn’t fit his vehicle. However, the company did send him new ones, which made for a great fit.
Are you looking for a pair of high-quality running boards for your vehicle? Well, look no more.
These are not only very well made, but you can also install them without drilling any holes in your car. How great is that?
Reason to Buy:
- Fits easily by bolts. No drilling required
- Two polymer step pads for both gate
- Customized mounting brackets for fitting
- UV rays protection pad
Westin 27-6620
- Westin Sure Grip Aluminum Running Boards are custom made to fit your truck or SUV
- However, you must order the mounting kit (sold sepaerately) to complete the installation.
- Sure Grip Running Boards boast a rubberized step surface for secure footing in any weather.
- Westin Sure Grip Running Boards are crafted from 4"-wide extruded aluminum
- Just choose 1 of three finishes Brite Aluminum, Brushed Aluminum or Black.
These straight-step style running boards can be purchased in a total of 6 universal-style lengths. When it comes to installing them, they can be installed by using the cradle mounting method.
In terms of build quality, they’re made of an extruded aluminium baseboard and also come with a step area made of high-quality rubber. Westin 2706620 also comes with a five-year warranty for peace of mind.
Pros
- Available in six different lengths.
- A five-year warranty gives buyers peace of mind.
- Simple to install.
Cons
- The plastic part from the ends will rise up after a while.
Give your truck a new look you want with these amazing running boards. They’re not only amazing in terms of design, but they’re also very sturdy, simple to install, and very rugged!
Reason to Buy:
- Straight aluminium base
- High-quality rubber pads
- The rubber on the corners as well making it look two-tone
- Confirm solid grip
Westin 27-6630 Polished Aluminum Step Board
Available in six different universal-style lengths, the Westin 276630 aluminium step boards are certainly some of the best you can get. Installing them is very simple, and you can do so by using the cradle mounting method.
Since they’re made of high-quality extruded aluminium, not only are they lightweight, but they are also very rugged and will last for many years to come.
The five-year warranty gives you peace of mind that the company does indeed stand behind their products.
Pros
- Available in six different style lengths.
- The manufacturer offers a five-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Made of high-quality extruded aluminium.
Cons
- These look great once you install them on your truck, but the truth is that some people may think they’re a bit pricey for the quality you get.
If you want to upgrade your truck’s look without spending crazy amounts of money for this, then this is a great way to begin.
These running boards are not only well made, but they look great and are simple to install, too.
How cool is that?
Reason to Buy:
- Universal style
- Fits great and is easy on the truck
- Lightweight extruded aluminium with rubber pad
- UV rubber pads are on the base of the running board
- Unique designed corners
APS iArmor Aluminum Side Steps Armor Custom Fit 2015-2020 Chevy Colorado GMC Canyon Crew Cab Pickup 4-Door
These 100% aluminium build running boards are great for side steps as well as truck guards. With 6.5” in size and square tubing, they can support a load of up to 300 pounds.
Precisely, these sideboards are thicker than the average and protected from UV and corrosion. With the included instruction and just a socket wrench, you can install these sideboards in no time.
Pros
- Aluminium built with corrosion proof
- Installation with an ease
- 300 pounds load capacity
Cons
- Fit 4-door pick-up only
The square tubing design makes these running boards perfect for stepping and protecting against obstacles. Basically, both short and tall people find them easy to step on.
Reason to Buy:
- Custom the look of your truck
- Serve as step sides and protect your truck against obstacles
- Easy to install
- Affordable price
Lund 22858768 Chrome (Five inches)
- Style and strength of these larger size bars look awesome on full-size trucks and SUV’s while bent bar ends provide a modern integrated appearance
- Constructed with cutting-edge polymers mated to a recessed, extruded aluminum frame; Chrome Finish
- Wide step pad is larger than traditional bar steps; No-slip step pad provides the ultimate traction for safe, sure footing
- Pre-assembled for easy no-drill installation with all mounting hardware included
- Solid construction supports up to 350 pounds
Designed with a custom fit, the five-inch Lund chrome running boards are ideal if you want to upgrade or replace your current running boards. One thing you need to know about these is that they have an aluminium frame that is corrosion-resistant, but they also come with one hundred per cent exclusive no-drill brackets for easy installation.
In terms of size, they measure eighty-seven inches which should be enough to fit most trucks. Lastly, they come with an ultraviolet-resistant rubber pad for improved durability and excellent traction.
Pros
- Made of corrosion-resistant aluminium.
- Custom-fit 87” running boards.
- Thanks to the no-drill brackets, you can install these without having to drill holes in your truck too.
Cons
- A buyer said that he had had these for three years, and that’s how long it took for them to start falling apart.
Upgrade your truck’s look with these impressive-looking running boards. They’re very well made, durable, and very simple to install as well.
Highly recommended!
Reason to Buy:
- This running board can bear up to 350 pounds, safe stepping
- UV high-quality rubber pads which prevent slipping
- Chrome-plated, reliable and durable
- Tough solid build with a fascinating design
Lund 22368768 Chrome (Six inches)
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Made of powder-coated mild steel construction and three hundred and four stainless steel, these running boards are some of the best you can currently get. These step pads are recessed, and they have a surface that effectively grips for improved stability. They’re also ultraviolet-resistant for increased longevity.
In size, they range from eighty to eighty-seven inches and can be installed without drilling any holes in your truck. Lastly, for peace of mind, the manufacturer offers a limited lifetime warranty on these.
Pros
- Excellent 304 SS or powder-coated mild steel build quality.
- Corrosion-resistant frame.
- It can be installed thanks o the no-drill brackets easily.
Cons
- While these do ship with the required installation hardware, someone said that it didn’t fit his ’15 Chevy 3500.
Give your truck a new look with these amazing-looking running boards. They’re corrosion-resistant, a breeze to install, and look really cool as well.
Reason to Buy:
- Stainless steel does not rust and is reliable
- Powder-coated steel, which is durable and builds for long life
- The known Running board, which has been installed infamous brand vehicles
- Shiny chrome surface with ultraviolet pads on the base for a safe grip and long duration
Genuine Toyota Accessories PT938-89100
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One of the first things you’ll notice about these running boards is how cool they look. They come with skid-resistant step pads that ensure secure footing, and they’re also corrosion-resistant.
Thanks to their stainless steel trim, you can rest assured that these will last for many years to come. Keep in mind that these are an exact replacement for the original part, so they’re going to fit perfectly on your Toyota vehicle.
Come with a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Genuine Toyota product.
- Stainless steel trim for extra durability.
- Secure footing thanks to the skid-resistant step pads.
Cons
- These look great, and no one will argue with you about that, but the truth is that they’re very expensive.
If you have a Toyota truck and don’t want to get any other running boards than the original truck shipped with, then look no further.
These are not only the real deal, but they’re also simple to install and very rugged.
Highly recommended!
Reason to Buy:
- Original Toyota products that can be trusted
- Comes in black colour on stainless steel
- Designed perfectly for the Toyota trucks
- Fits accurately on a Toyota truck
- Shape and size are available
- It can be fitted without drilling
Best Running Boards – Buyer’s Guide
Who said that buying new running boards for your vehicle is hard? Now that you’ve read the reviews of the top 10 running boards on the market choosing the right ones for your needs should be a lot easier.
Each running board has its own quality and uniqueness, which is represented by its design.
Most of the time, people are scared of installing the running boards that it’ll create issues while driving, but actually, these running boards are the ones that stabilize your vehicle.
Many running boards have new technologies in them, as they can fold when the truck is rolling and open automatically when the door is opened. These features make it more cool and attractive for young and old people.
Build Quality
Running boards are mainly built with solid pure metals. Every metal has a unique quality in it, which is used according to the situation.
Considering different kinds of metals in making running boards is a good decision by the companies who are in the making of running board competition.
Aluminium used to make aeroplanes is used in making running boards for long life. Some are extruded aluminium, while other running boards are made of stainless steel for durability.
The base of the running boards is attached with step pads made of plastic or rubber.
Every running board has different kinds of pads on its base; some have two different pads placed according to the door, while some have straight pads built with protection from ultraviolet rays.
Style and Design
Running boards are designed according to vehicles of different sizes and styles. Each vehicle has a different shape, and running boards are made according to it.
Most running boards are straight with no design on them.
Some running boards are of a unique shape made from steel and aluminium. Turned from the corners to make it look cooler. Many are coloured in matt black for an exclusive and customized look for the vehicle.
Many running boards come with mounting brackets, while others are easily fit by drilling. The rubber pads attached in style also make their look more astonishing when fitted.
These running boards are the best of the best and are bought around the world. Many of them are known brands, and many are custom designed for the exclusive look.
They are fitted easily and make your vehicle look cooler. Protects your vehicle’s door floor from accidents and makes it easier for old people to climb in the vehicle easily using the running board.
Nerf Bars VS Running Boards
The main difference between Nerf bars and running boards is the shape. Nerf bars are mostly used in customized vehicles, and running boards are used in every normal truck.
Nerf bars are shaped in a way that makes the trucks look more aggressive and wild. Truckers who do 4×4 mostly used the nerf bars. Nerf bars are shaped in a way that they can’t get stuck on any high-edge rock or on a bush while offroading. Nerf is basically installed in heavy-duty trucks that are challenged to perform tasks, while the running boards are installed on normal SUVs and trucks for the looks.
Running boards are retractable and foldable and are plain straight as compared to nerf bars which are made from sports tubes for a sporty look. Both are strongly made from powder-coated carbon steel for performance and are durable and reliable.
FAQs about Best Running Boards
If I Install Running Boards to My Vehicle, Will Other Warranties Become Null and Void?
Your warranty on the vehicle will remain until or unless your vehicle doesn’t get into a major accident; otherwise, installing the running board won’t affect other warranties. No other warranties could become null even if you install aftermarket nerf or running board on your vehicle. Damage from natural disasters will only void your vehicle’s warranty.
How Much Can a Running Board Hold Weight Wise?
Depending upon the quality of the running board. Some running boards can hold weight up to 500 lbs pounds, while some can barely take 200 lbs pounds. The aluminium-made running board can hold the most weight as compared to steel ones.
What Is the Purpose of a Running Board?
The basic purpose due to which the running boards were invented was to get into the vehicle easily. The running boards are now in different shapes and sizes to help the old people get into the vehicle easily. Just a step on the running board to help you get in the vehicle.
When Were Running Boards Created?
When the high-ground trucks were built, it was difficult for the short-height person to get in the truck. So back in the day, the running board was invented to make it easier for people to get in the truck. The first running board was created in the early 17th century for the rail carriage, and in the early 20th century, the running board for vehicles was made.
Conclusion
The sole purpose of inventing the running board was to get people easily in high-ground vehicles. But nowadays, running boards are used for customizing the vehicle. They are created in different designs and shapes for fitting in different sizes of vehicles.
Running boards are also installed in 4×4 off-road machines and in normal vehicles also. People install them for looks, while some people install them as they have old age people in their houses who face difficulty in getting in the vehicle. New designs are being made by manufacturing companies making the running boards more advanced.
