The Best Side Steps for Trucks: Nerf Bars, Running Boards, Bed Steps, and More!
Updated on Sep 30, 2024
Side steps are one of the most popular modifications for trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs, and for numerous reasons! From guarding your ride’s rocker panels against rust-inducing rock chips to giving passengers a leg-up into the cab, side steps are a must-have upgrade, especially after installing a lift kit and oversized tires.
However, with the immense popularity of side steps comes a massive aftermarket flooded with numerous manufacturers, styles, finishes, and models; but which is right for you? Once again, the experts at RealTruck are here to do the hard work for you! We’ve combed through our extensive inventory to curate a list of our top styles and products, making your decision a breeze! Read on for a comprehensive list of our expert-recommended steps, arranged by the styles of:
Along the way, we’re detailing side step benefits, analyzing different side step configurations, and linking our top overall products by category and top picks by platform! In other words, if you’re in the market for side steps, you’re in the right place!
Side Step Benefits
So, why install side steps in the first place?
Aside from improving your ride’s aesthetics, side steps serve several practical functions on a pickup, though the most widely cited is improving accessibility. Modern pickups, especially full sizes, sit relatively tall from the factory. Some models, like the GMC Sierra AT4x, Tundra TRD Pro, and Colorado ZR2, even include lift kits from the factory, forcing passengers to leap or climb into the cab!
Side steps help to combat high cab height by lowering your access point into the cab, with some premium electric models, like the AMP Research Power Step, dropping over a foot! In addition, side steps provide a non-slip step surface, preventing slipping, sliding, and entry-related injuries in even the wettest conditions.
Aside from easing entry into your pickup’s cab, side steps provide moderate rocker protection–one of the most rust and damage-prone areas of your pickup’s body. While most side steps don’t offer the protection of impact-resistant rock sliders, they’ll guard the rockers against mild impacts, kicked-up rocks, and road debris, preventing rust-prone scratches and paint chips.
Side Step Configurations
Side steps come in several shapes and sizes, ranging from full-length running boards to small, single-hoop steps. Before we get into our buyer’s guide, let’s discuss the various side-step configurations.
Positioning: Fixed Position Vs. Retractable
First, let’s discuss positioning. Most steps come in one of two designs: fixed position or retractable. Fixed-position steps employ rigid brackets that determine the step’s positioning compared to your vehicle’s rocker panels. Though some fixed position steps feature adjustable mounts, they remain stationary once installed.
Alternatively, retractable steps feature hinged mounts paired with electric motors. When not in use, retractable steps tuck tightly against the body for a sleek, subtle appearance. When actuated, typically by you or a passenger opening a door, the steps deploy!
Fitment: Cab-Length Vs. Wheel-to-Wheel
Next, let’s cover side step fitment. Most steps feature cab-length designs, in which the step stretches only the length of your vehicle’s cab. However, some feature wheel-to-wheel designs in which the step extends past the cab and along the bedside. Most wheel-to-wheel steps include additional step pads or drop steps just below the bedside, enabling quick access to tool boxes or cargo near the bulkhead.
Mounting Configuration: Frame-Mount Vs. Rocker-Mount
Last, let’s touch on side step mounting configurations. Most side steps utilize rocker-mount designs, in which the included mounting brackets bolt to your vehicle’s rocker panels. While sturdy enough for daily use, rocker-mount steps won’t withstand heavy impacts or abrasions on the trail.
Alternatively, frame-mount steps bolt or weld directly to your vehicle’s steel frame, offering far more strength and durability. While rocker-mount steps are suitable for daily driving and mild wheeling, we’d recommend frame-mount options for serious off-road use and abuse.
Side Step Buyer’s Guide
With side step variations covered, let’s shift focus to our expert-curated list! This buyer’s guide includes various products from the top manufacturers; however, we’ve done our due diligence to ensure products that meet every consumer’s needs, stylistic tastes, and budget.
We’ve broken this list into various categories by style. To jump to any particular step style, click the associated links below!
One of our top-selling steps, and also one of our top picks, is the original AMP Research Power Step. This premium electric running board is durable and lightweight thanks to its corrosion-resistant die-cast aluminum construction and stainless steel pivot pins/hardware, withstanding even the harshest climates. A military-grade black PTFE coating provides additional protection and a sleek finish.
AMP Research Power Steps automatically deploy from their hidden, retracted position as you open a door, granting access to the 6-inch wide, non-slip running board for easy access into the cab. Integrated LED courtesy lights illuminate automatically, shining light on the step and surrounding area to prevent tripping or stepping into a puddle.
Depending on your application, AMP Research may provide a simple plug-and-play module harness, powering your Power Steps with a simple plug into the OBDII port! In either case, we recommend professional installation.
AMP Research backs the Power Steps with the insurance of a 5-year, 60,000-mile warranty.
Features:
The original electric-powered running board
Automatically deploys and retracts
Corrosion-resistant die-cast aluminum construction
Heavy-duty stainless steel pivot pins
Military-grade black PTFE coating
6-inch wide, cab-length steps
Textured, slip-resistant step surface
Low-profile integrated LED courtesy lights
Includes vehicle-specific installation guide and mount kit
Includes patented Plug-N-Play module on applicable chassis
Professional installation recommended
5-year/60,000-mile warranty
Go Rhino is a leading body armor manufacturer, including premium bumpers and heavy-duty side steps! The Go Rhino RB20 Slim Running Boards are no exception, offering outstanding strength, sleek styling, and a simple bolt-on installation.
Go Rhino RB20 Slim Running Boards are manufactured from heavy-duty galvanized 16-gauge steel for superior strength, withstanding heavy loads without fatigue. These steps are available in textured powder coat or bedliner finishes, each offering exceptional corrosion protection for years of rust-free service.
Go Rhino RB20 Slim Running Boards are exceptionally narrow at just 5.5 inches at their widest! The sleek design is ideal for off-road-centric applications, minimally affecting ground clearance.
Go Rhino backs the RB20 Slim Running Boards with a limited 5-year warranty.
Features:
Galvanized 16-gauge steel construction
Offered in either textured powder coat or protective bed liner coating
Slim 5.5" profile at the widest point
Perforated step pads
Installs to vehicle's rocker panel
Includes vehicle-specific mount kit and instructions
Easy no-drill installation
Rugged RB-Series raptor styling
Limited 5-year warranty
Lund’s Stainless Summit Ridge 2.0 Running Boards are ideal for enthusiasts looking to stand out! These mirror-polished stainless steel running boards offer striking looks and outstanding durability, withstanding even the harshest climates. The lustrous polished finish perfectly complements chrome bumpers, trim, and chrome/polished wheels. However, these running boards don’t just look great; they’re also highly functional!
Lund Stainless Summit Ridge 2.0 Running Boards feature an extra-wide 5-inch step surface with non-slip tread pads, ensuring stable and confident entry into your ride’s cab. They also feature a simple bolt-on installation, requiring nothing more than conventional hand tools and an hour or less!
Lund backs these steps with the confidence of a limited lifetime warranty.
Features:
T-304 stainless steel construction
Mirror-polished finish
Large 5" board provides ample stepping area
Step with confidence onto non-slip tread pads
Hardware kit included with purchase
Fastens to rocker panel
Easy, no-drill installation
Limited lifetime warranty
Best Nerf Bars
Nerf Bars are tubular steps, most commonly featuring a round or oval tube running either the length of the cab or from wheel to wheel. Composite plastic step pads are placed strategically at each door, providing a sturdy, non-slip foothold to prevent slipping and sliding during entry.
The Lund Terrain HX Step Nerf Bars are rugged, off-road-inspired nerf steps featuring heavy-duty construction, aggressive styling, and an easily accessible design. These steps feature rugged 3mm-thick carbon steel construction, including a 3-inch main tube and tubular drop steps. Louvered step pads can be found at each drop step, providing exceptional grip while allowing mud, water, snow, and other contaminants to drain to the floor below.
These steps are finished in a sleek, textured black powder coat finish, improving styling, corrosion resistance, and traction!
Lund Terrain HX Step Nerf Bars feature a simple no-drill installation with vehicle-specific hardware and instructions. Lund backs this product with a limited 3-year warranty, guarding against manufacturing and material defects.
Features:
Durable 3mm heavy-duty steel construction
3" main tube with 4" wide drop steps
Fully welded design
Louvered, anti-slip step plates
Textured black powder-coat finish
Simple no-drill installation
Sold in pairs
Limited 3-year warranty
Go Rhino 4000 Series Black Nerf Bars are simple and elegant, featuring a classic single-tube design that suits any application. These steps are manufactured from heavy-duty alloys, including carbon steel (black and chrome finishes) and corrosion-resistant stainless steel (polished finish). They offer exceptional strength, supporting up to 250 pounds per step without fatigue!
Go Rhino 4000 Series Black Nerf Bars feature oversized composite step pads beneath each door, providing a non-slip surface to prevent slippage, regardless of weather conditions.
These steps include vehicle-specific hardware and instructions for a simple bolt-on installation.
Go Rhino backs all 4000-series steps with a limited warranty. Polished steps receive a limited lifetime warranty, while chrome-plated or powder-coated carbon steel steps receive five years of coverage.
Features:
Enables safe and easy entry to your truck’s cab
Available in chrome, stainless steel, or black finishes
Oversized step pads feature slip-resistant surfaces
Options to fit most trucks and SUVs in 2, 3, and 4-door configurations
250-lb. weight rating
Sold in pairs
Limited lifetime warranty on polished stainless steel finish
5-year warranty on chrome or black powder-coated finishes
Lund 4” Straight Oval Stainless Nerf Bars are the epitome of simplicity. With a straight, oval design and high-polish finish, these steps will complement any build, from mild to wild!
Lund 4” Straight Oval Stainless Nerf Bars don’t just look the part. These steps are built to last, utilizing only the finest grade materials like T-304 stainless steel for exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. Lund also employs molded step pads and end caps, which provide superior traction while preventing dirt, snow, salt, and other debris from collecting in the tubes.
Lund 4” Straight Oval Stainless Nerf Bars are sold in pairs alongside vehicle-specific brackets and hardware, ensuring a hassle-free, bolt-on installation. Lund backs each order with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects.
Features:
Durable T-304 stainless steel construction
Oval tube design
Mirror-polish finish
Molded end caps and step pads
350-lb. weight rating
Includes all mounting hardware
Simple, bolt-on installation
Sold in pairs
Limited lifetime warranty
Best Hoop Steps
Next, we have hoop steps. These steps feature individual hoops below each door, adjoined by a primary tube tucked tightly against the body. Though the terms ‘nerf bar’ and ‘hoop step’ are often used interchangeably, we differentiate the two by whether or not the step features integrated drop steps.
N-Fab is a leading manufacturer in the hoop step category, specializing in high-quality, all-steel construction and superior designs. The N-Fab Nerf Step RS is no exception, featuring a practical and stylish drop-step design and rugged tubular carbon steel construction.
These steps feature a 2-inch tubular steel main hoop, providing ample strength for the drop steps below each door. Welded to each drop step is a die-stamped punch plate, increasing traction while allowing water, mud, and snow to drain through the perforations. N-Fab treats the Nerf Step RS with a premium dual-stage powder coat finish, protecting against rust and corrosion for long-lasting service.
These steps feature a simple bolt-on installation with the included hardware and instructions. All steps are backed by the confidence of a limited lifetime structural warranty and 5-year finish warranty, ensuring years of hassle-free service.
Features:
Heavy duty 2" steel tube construction
Dual-layered black powder coating for superior corrosion resistance
Large 5" wide step plate provides a large stepping surface
Die-stamped punch plate adds maximum traction
Mounts to the rocker panel
Simple bolt-on installation
Limited lifetime structural | 5-year finish warranty
Next, we have another entry from N-Fab: Stainless Steel Cab Length Podium Steps. These steps are constructed from stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance, minimizing rust due to the alloy’s high chromium levels. These steps also feature a lustrous mirror-polished finish resembling chrome.
N-Fab Stainless Steel Cab Length Podium Steps are constructed with a stout 3-inch diameter main tube supporting the welded-on drop steps and louvered step pads. These louvers provide exceptional traction, preventing you and your passengers from slipping and sliding while climbing into the cab. Composite plastic step pads cap off the end of each tube, keeping mud, dirt, salt, and debris from collecting within.
N-Fab Stainless Steel Cab Length Podium Steps feature a simple bolt-on installation with the included vehicle-specific hardware and installation instructions. They’re backed by the confidence of a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring years of reliable service.
Features:
Premium stainless steel construction
Durable 3” main tube
Louvered step pads
Composite end caps
Mirror-polished finish
Simple bolt-on installation
Limited lifetime warranty
Havoc, a RealTruck brand, is a leading manufacturer of premium side steps, including the HS2 Black Hoop Steps! These premium hoop-style steps feature corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction for long service life. These steps also feature a matte-black powder coat finish for added protection, withstanding chips, scratches, and abrasions.
The Havoc HS2 Black Hoop Steps come with a stylish, off-road-inspired design, including a tightly tucked main tube with tubular drop steps at each door. These steps provide not only rugged styling but also exceptional accessibility! The louvered 4.75-inch wide step pads make climbing in and out of your ride's cab a breeze.
Havoc HS2 Black Hoop Steps offer a simple, bolt-on design. All orders include vehicle-specific bracketry, hardware, and instructions, making for quick at-home mounting with conventional hand tools! Havoc backs each set with a limited 5-year warranty.
Features:
Durable stainless steel construction
Protective matte-black powder coat finish
4.75" step width
Simple, no-drill installation on most applications
Sold in pairs
Includes all hardware, bracketry, and thorough installation instructions
Louvered step pads for superior grip
Vehicle-specific fitment
Limited 5-year warranty
Best Truck Steps
We also carry a wide assortment of truck steps, characterized by their simple and compact design. These steps offer entry into a specific location, like a single door on your pickup. They’re typically constructed from alloy materials and come individually.
American-made Carr steps are the epitome of tuck step styling. These sleek, single-hoop steps can be found across the country on well-worked ranch trucks, delivering classic style and unmatched durability.
Carr Hoop Step II features heavy-duty aluminum construction, resisting corrosion for years of reliable service. Carr applies a durable XP3 black powder coat finish for additional protection and subtle styling.
These steps mount directly to your vehicle’s rocker panels for superior strength. Each order includes Carr’s proprietary mounting system for a straightforward installation; some drilling is required. Carr backs each order of Hoop Step II steps with a limited lifetime warranty.
Features:
Corrosion-resistant cast aluminum construction
Durable XP3 black powder coat protects from harsh conditions
Step area is 10” x 3”
Non-slip, diamond-tread step surface
Mounting hardware included
Drilling is required on most vehicles
Mounts to vehicle's rocker panel
Features proprietary mounting system
Classic hoop step style
Sold with the option of either a single step or a pair
USA-made
Limited lifetime warranty
If Carr’s classic hoop steps aren’t your style, consider the company’s MAXno-Drill Side Steps in a sleek, XM3 Polished finish! These sturdy, cast aluminum steps feature a modern design with aggressive, angular accents. The product's innovative slip-resistant tread pattern ensures adequate grip in all conditions, improving cab access in style!
Carr MAXno-drill Side Steps feature a massive 10-inch by 5.5-inch step surface, allowing plenty of room for a work boot. The step’s convenient flow-through channels allow moisture, mud, snow, and other debris to slide right through, ensuring ample traction in any conditions.
These steps mount directly to your vehicle’s rocker panels using the included mounting hardware and instructions; no drilling is required. Carr proudly manufactures MAXno-drill Side Steps in the USA and backs each order with a limited lifetime warranty.
Features:
Made with sturdy, lightweight cast-aluminum
Attractive XM3 Polished finish
10” x 5.5” step provides ample step surface
Innovative, slip-resistant tread pattern and debris flow-through channels
Mounting hardware included
Easy, no-drill installation
Mounts to vehicle’s rocker panel
Features available illuminated step surface via optional built-in LED
Unique single-bracket design
Sold individually
USA-made
Limited lifetime warranty
Bully Aluminum Side Steps are the perfect complement to any lifted pickup, whether vintage or fresh off the lot! These classic aluminum hoops mount directly to your vehicle’s rocker panels, offering exceptional strength and durability. Though some drilling may be required, installation is quick and straightforward with the included instructions, brackets, and hardware.
Bully Aluminum Side Steps offer exceptional corrosion resistance with their durable aluminum construction. Each step features an extra-wide 6.25-inch step area, allowing clearance for even the bulkiest work boots! Textured step pads help to prevent slipping and sliding, regardless of the weather.
Bully backs each order of Aluminum Step Pads with a limited 1-year warranty.
Features:
Classic hoop styling
Rugged cast-aluminum construction
Extra-wide 6.25” step area
Sold individually or in pairs
Includes all hardware
Straightforward installation; some drilling may be required
Limited 1-year warranty
Best Sliders
Sliders are off-road-centric steps characterized by their rugged, typically tubular design and proximity to your vehicle’s rocker panels. These steps serve two essential purposes: first, to ease entry into the cab, and second, to protect the rocker panels against significant dents, dings, and gouges while navigating challenging obstacles on the trail.
In addition to the slider’s primary tubular structure and step, they typically feature an additional tube mounted slightly lower and further inboard, which takes the brunt of impacts.
If you’re a regular off-roader, consider investing in premium rock sliders like the Havoc Offroad TrailCrawler Steps! These rugged side steps double as heavy-duty rock sliders, allowing your ride to slide across obstacles that’d otherwise dent and scratch its rocker panels.
The Havoc Offroad TrailCrawler Steps are manufactured from 1.75-inch OD x .120 wall DOM steel tubing, offering maximum rocker protection while wheeling. Havoc Offroad treats all TrailCrawler Steps with a black powder coat finish to fend off rust and corrosion.
These steps feature a simple bolt-on installation using the included hardware and instructions. Havoc backs the Offroad TrailCrawler Steps with a limited 5-year warranty, protecting against manufacturing and materials defects.
Features:
Dual-function design performs as a rock slider and tubular side step
Built from high-strength 1.75” OD x .120 wall DOM steel tubing for effective rocker protection
Distinctive black powder coat finish for exceptional corrosion resistance
Simple, no-drill installation uses factory slider mounting locations
Limited 5-year warranty
Introducing the Armor Lite Rock Sliders from Lod Offroad: durable, frame-mounted sliders manufactured from lightweight 6061-T6 extruded aluminum. These sliders are engineered with protection in mind, sliding over obstacles and debris to keep your ride’s rockers in pristine condition. Additionally, they feature a textured black powder coat finish for superior durability, preventing unwanted corrosion.
These sliders double as premium side steps, featuring a 3.75-inch-wide step with a non-slip hexagonal tread surface. This design allows for a stable step-up into the cab, ideal for lifted applications.
The Lod Offroad Armor Lite Rock Sliders are made in the USA and backed by a limited lifetime structural and 1-year finish warranty.
Features:
Lightweight 6061-T6 extruded aluminum construction
Textured black powder-coat finish
3.75" wide step surface
Non-slip hexagonal tread surface
Bolts directly to the frame
Includes mounting kit and install instructions
Easy no-drill installation
Add on drop steps or skid plates for more functionality
USA-made
Limited lifetime structural | 1-year finish warranty
For maximum rocker protection, it’s tough to beat the Go Rhino DS Sliders. These heavy-duty tubular steel steps feature a full-length step pad, rub rail, and square-tube slider, offering outstanding rocker protection and accessibility! Whenever you take your rig on the trail, you can count on your Go Rhino Dominator DS Sliders to keep its sheet metal in tip-top shape.
Go Rhino Dominator DS Sliders double as functional steps, featuring removable alloy step plates with dimple-died details. The plates are easily removable with conventional hand tools, allowing easy cleaning and paint touch-ups.
These steps include all necessary brackets, hardware, and instructions for a simple no-drill installation. Go Rhino backs the Dominator DS Sliders with a limited lifetime structural and 5-year finish warranty.
Features:
Durable tubular steel construction
Corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish
Removable anti-slip steel step pad
Simple, no-drill installation
Includes Dominator Xtreme Mount Kit and install guide
Limited lifetime structural / 5-year finish warranty
Best Bed Steps
Finally, let’s shift our attention away from the cab to your pickup’s cargo area: the bed! We offer several fixed-position and retractable bed steps, like the Dee Zee Side Box Step and Bestop TrekStep Tailgate Step, easing entry into the bed and allowing easy access to your cargo.
The AMP Research Bed Step is a convenient, retractable step that mounts at the rear corner of your pickup’s bed, allowing access to the bumper step or tailgate!
This product features a durable alloy construction with a rugged, non-slip, glass-reinforced step pad. This combination provides a stable, slip-resistant foothold for safe and secure bed access. The entire assembly can support up to 300 pounds, ensuring safe operation.
Like AMP Research Power Steps, the AMP Research Bed Step features a convenient retractable design that tucks beneath the bed when not in use. When you need the extra step-up, kick the step downward to lock it into place! Another kick unlocks the step and returns it to its original position.
This product is made in the USA, ensuring the utmost quality. AMP Research backs every Bed Step with a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.
Features:
High-strength aluminum alloy frame
Glass-reinforced non-slip step pad
Convenient, retractable design
300 lb. weight rating
Simple bolt-on installation on most applications
Some drilling may be required
USA-made
3-year, 36,000-mile warranty
Next, we have the AMP Research Bed Step 2, a slight deviation from the original Bed Step listed above. This product mounts before your pickup’s rear tire, below the bedside, near the bulkhead. Like a wheel-to-wheel running board, the Bed Step 2 allows access to your pickup’s cargo near the bulkhead or into your bed-mounted tool box, ideal for those who regularly work out of their truck.
Depending on your preference, this product mounts to your vehicle's driver or passenger side. AMP Research includes all necessary hardware and thorough instructions, ensuring a straightforward installation procedure.
The AMP Research Bed Step 2 is made in the USA and backed by the confidence of a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.
Features:
Eases entry into the bed
Mounts between the cab and rear wheels
Rugged aluminum construction
Stainless steel pivots
Non-slip step pad
Simple, hands-free operation
300 lb. load rating
Driver or passenger side mountable
USA-made
3-year/36,000-mile warranty
If you’d prefer a step that’s always deployed and ready for action, check out the Dee Zee Bumper Step! This rugged, fixed-position step features a heavy-duty steel construction for superior strength, withstanding the load of you and your cargo! If corrosion is a concern, don’t worry. This product comes finished in a gloss black powder coat, withstanding chips, scratches, and oil/chemical contamination.
The Dee Zee Bumper Step doesn’t just look the part, it’s also highly functional! This product features a large, non-slip step pad for easy bed access from the driver's rear of your pickup.
Each Dee Zee Bumper Step offers a simple, no-drill installation with vehicle-specific mounting plates and hardware. Dee Zee backs each order with a limited 3-year warranty.
Features:
High-grade steel construction
Corrosion-resistant gloss black powder coat finish
Large 4" x 4" step pad
Non-slip treading ensures a stable foothold
Driver's side fitment
Vehicle-specific mounting plate and hardware
Simple, no-drill installation
Provides easy access to your truck bed
Limited 3-year warranty
Best Side Steps by Application
Aside from this comprehensive side-step buyer’s guide, we’ve also published vehicle-specific guides for our favorite truck, Jeep, and SUV platforms! If you own any vehicles on this list, click the associated link for a comprehensive side-step buyer’s guide for your specific platform!
If your particular vehicle isn’t on this list, don’t worry! Contact our expert staff seven days a week to answer any questions, assist with product inquiries, and provide order assistance.
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