Side Steps vs. Running Boards: Which Offers the Best Combination of Style, Functionality & Safety?

SUVs and trucks offer exceptional space for passengers and cargo; however, their size can also make getting in and out of your vehicle challenging. 

Many larger vehicles require a giant step up or down to get in and out. Fortunately, accessories like running boards and side steps can help with this issue. Not only can they help you step into your vehicle, but these items can protect against debris and give your SUV and truck an attractive look. 

But what type of step should you invest in? Are there benefits to looking at one over the other? We help you narrow your decision below if you’re on the fence. 

What Do Truck Side Steps Have to Offer?

Side steps, sometimes called Nerf boards, can either run the length of the vehicle’s cabin or just a door’s length. They typically are in a tubular shape and include an actual step to lift yourself to the door, hence their name. 

These vehicle steps are typically narrow, have custom-fitted stepping pads, and are lower to the ground. The latter makes it easier for passengers to enter the vehicle, especially for trucks or SUVs that are naturally higher. However, because of their low clearance, they may be more likely to be damaged while driving. 

What Do Truck Running Boards Have to Offer?

Running boards perform the same function as side steps. Typically, most running boards run the length of an SUV or truck cabin. These boards are much broader and closer to the actual vehicle than side steps. 

This makes stepping onto them to get into the car more comfortable for the driver or passenger. Additionally, they are located a bit higher off the ground. Because of this, individuals will have to take a more considerable step to get inside the car. 

Nevertheless, the higher clearance can protect the boards from harm while driving or off-roading. Truck running boards can also be an excellent help for reaching and loading the roof since they cover a large area of the bottom of the vehicle.

Which Options Offers the Best Style, Functionality & Safety?

Side steps and running boards both have pros and cons. Let’s look at both aspects to get a feel for what may work and what doesn’t.

Style 

Running boards are typically large and rectangular, running the truck’s cabin length. They are fairly wide and can come in a variety of materials. Because of their function, you may feel limited in how you can make a running board complement the look of your vehicle. Most of the aesthetic will likely come from what it is made of. Popular materials used for these are aluminum, fiberglass, and polymer. 

Alternatively, side steps may provide more style options. They can come as customizable boards with steps attached or rounded cylindrical steps with custom pads attached on top (commonly called Nerf boards). Like running boards, how these instruments will look will likely have a lot to do with the material they are made of. Many side steps are made of aluminum or some kind of steel. 

Which you prefer will depend on the material used and whether you like the look of a wider rectangle step or a smaller individualized step. 

Functionality 

Both side steps and running boards allow you to step inside your SUV or truck easily. Nevertheless, how they accomplish this differs based on their composition. For example, running boards offer a larger surface area for stepping. 

They are also typically located closer to the car itself. Running boards not only function as a way to more easily step inside your vehicle, but they can also more adequately act as a buffer against debris and other material hitting your vehicle. 

Some running boards even include extra features that can increase their functionality. For example, some running board products allow you to retract or illuminate them using an app. 

Side steps also offer a similar function. However, individuals entering a vehicle will likely have to deal with a narrower step since side steps are either constructed to be a single step or are tubular or cylindrical and include step pads. Nevertheless, they can also help to ward against debris. 

Another thing to consider about running boards and side steps is that they act as “doormats” for your vehicle. Individuals can wipe off their feet on both before entering your car, keeping them from tracking in dirt or moisture. 

Safety 

How safe you see running boards and side steps will depend on how easy they will make it for you and any passengers to step inside your vehicle. Running boards offer a larger surface area for stepping and are located much more closely to your truck or SUV. However, they are higher off the ground when compared to side steps. 

These boards can make it harder for someone with mobility challenges to enter a vehicle. On the other hand, side steps are located a bit further out from a truck or SUV. This, plus their location lower to the ground, can make the initial step into the vehicle much more accessible. Nevertheless, the distance between them and the car can make it more challenging to get into the truck once they’ve made the initial step.

Which Option is Best for You? 

Side steps and running boards each have their pros and cons. However, the one that works for you will depend on what you’re looking for. If you prefer a step with a larger surface area that offers a higher ground clearance and is much closer to the truck to facilitate a complete step, then running boards might be your preference. 

If a single or more minor step is preferred, and you would like something lower to the ground, then side steps are more optimal. You’ll also need to take into account budget and style. 

Think about how each product will fit into your daily life, especially regarding activities like work and off-roading. 

If you’re ready to search for either side steps or truck running boards, check out our inventory.