The Best Ford Ranger Side Steps

Ford Ranger-Specific Considerations

When considering side steps for your Ford Ranger, you'll need to weigh a few vehicle-specific variables. As a mid-size truck offered in several off-road-centric trims, the 6th-generation Ranger excels on trails, dunes, and remote camping sites. Any off-road-capable vehicle, including the Ranger, needs steps that are either high-clearance or durable enough to escape damage on the trail, so keep that in mind when shopping. 

Additionally, when shopping for the Ford Ranger, you'll need to consider which step length is right for your application. Are you looking purely for assistance in the cab? Then, consider a pair of cab-length side steps. However, if an extra boost into the bed is required, consider upgrading to wheel-to-wheel steps with an additional step at each bedside. 

Ford Ranger Side Step Variances

When upgrading your Ford Ranger, side steps are one of the most practical and stylish additions you can make to your vehicle. With a wide range of designs, finishes, and materials available, you can find a setup that perfectly matches your lifestyle and your truck's appearance. Let's explore the key types to help you find the ideal side steps for your Ranger.

Styles

Side steps aren't one-size-fits-all—they come in several configurations tailored to different needs. Here are some of the most popular types suited to the Ford Ranger:

• Running Boards: If convenience and everyday usability top your list, running boards are an excellent choice. These offer a wide, flat step that spans the length of the cab, making entry and exit easier, especially for kids or shorter passengers. They blend seamlessly with the Ranger's body for a clean, factory-style look.

• Nerf Bars: These tubular side steps are a favorite for those who want a more aggressive aesthetic without compromising functionality. Typically round or oval in shape, they include step pads below each door and offer a sportier look for your Ranger.

• Rock Sliders: For off-road enthusiasts, rock sliders serve dual purposes as both rugged steps and body armor. They're engineered to withstand harsh trail conditions, shielding your rocker panels from rocks, debris, and off-road impacts.

• Hoop Steps: Hoop steps are a compact and stylish solution. Individual hoops under each door provide a reliable foothold without the bulk of full-length boards. They're also great for drivers who want extra protection and a rugged, custom look.

• Truck Steps: Small, individual steps that mount directly below each door. They're ideal if you want something subtle that enhances accessibility without spanning the entire side of your truck.

Materials

The material used in your side steps plays a major role in performance, weight, and resistance to the elements. Here are the most common choices available for Ford Ranger steps:

• Carbon Steel: Heavy-duty and strong carbon steel steps are great for durability. Just ensure they have a proper protective coating, as this material is prone to rust if left unprotected.

• Stainless Steel: A step up in terms of corrosion resistance, stainless steel is ideal for Ford Ranger owners who frequently deal with harsh weather or salty roads. It's strong, rust-resistant, and often comes in polished finishes for added shine.

• Aluminum: If keeping your truck lightweight is a priority, aluminum steps are the way to go. They're naturally resistant to rust and ideal for moderate-duty use.

Finishes

Side step finishes affect both the look and long-term durability of the product. While commonly conflated with construction or color, finishes refer to the plating or coating that defines a material's appearance and resistance to corrosion. Here's a quick overview of the most popular finish types:

• Polished: This bright, reflective finish offers a clean, upscale look. Polished steps are ideal if you want your Ranger to stand out.

• Chrome: For a classic, mirror-like surface, chrome finishes provide both lustrous styling and exceptional corrosion resistance. 

• Powder-Coated: Powder coating is a durable polymer coating that provides protection against scratches, fading, and chipping. It's ideal for rugged, utilitarian builds in harsh climates. 

• Painted: Painted side steps, while complementing other black trim and accessories, aren't quite as durable as powder-coated variants. Still, automotive-grade paints provide long-lasting coverage and protection in most applications. 

Cab-Length Vs. Wheel-to-Wheel

When selecting your steps, consider how much coverage you want along the side of your truck:

• Cab-Length: These steps run along the cab and provide easy access to all doors. They keep things simple, clean, and streamlined.

• Wheel-to-Wheel: These offer extended coverage from the front door to just before the rear wheel. Typically featuring additional steps at each bedside, wheel-to-wheel steps are great if you need easy access to a toolbox or the truck bed.

Fixed-Position Vs. Retractable

Another essential variable to consider is whether or not you want your steps to be displayed at all times. You may prefer retractable steps over conventional fixed-position units, depending on your answer. 

• Fixed Steps: Always ready for action, fixed steps are mounted via fixed brackets and provide consistent access. They're reliable, cost-effective, and great for daily driving or work trucks.

• Electric Retractable Steps: Want a premium, high-tech feel? Retractable steps automatically deploy when you open your door and tuck away when it's closed. They're perfect for maintaining your Ranger's clean lines while still offering convenience.

Frame-Mount Vs. Rocker-Mount

Lastly, consider where you'd like your steps to mount on your Ranger—either to the frame or to the body. Both styles vary in strength and installation difficulty. 

• Frame-Mount: These are bolted directly to your truck's frame for maximum strength. While they often require a bit more effort to install, they're the top choice for durability and off-road use.

• Rocker-Mount: Designed for easier installation, rocker-mounted steps attach to existing mounting points in the body. They're a solid option for everyday driving and light off-roading without the need for heavy drilling or modifications.
  
  

Top Ford Ranger Side Steps: Experts' Picks

With key variances covered, it's time to discuss our top products. Read on to learn more about our leading side step picks for the Ford Ranger, including various styles and finishes. 

RealTruck AMP Research PowerStep

AMP Research® PowerSteps are a benchmark in the automotive step market, renowned for their heavy-duty construction, reliable performance, and exceptional looks. 

Featuring an integrated electric motor that retracts and deploys a 6-inch-wide die-cast aluminum board, PowerStep delivers instantaneous assistance into your Ranger's cab with the door open. Closing the door returns the step to its resting position behind the rocker panels for sleek aesthetics. 

AMP Research backs the PowerStep running boards with a limited 5-year warranty. 

Features: 

• ​​The original power-retractable running boards

• Premium, single-motor design automatically deploys and retracts boards

• Corrosion-resistant die-cast aluminum construction

• Military-grade black PTFE coating

• 6-inch wide, cab-length steps

• Textured, slip-resistant step surface

• Low-profile integrated LED courtesy lights

• Mounts to vehicle's rocker panel

• Newer applications connect to the OBDII port via a Plug-N-Play module

• 5-year limited warranty

Ionic 3" Black Nerf Bars

If traditional nerf bars are more your speed, Ionic Automotive's 3" nerf bars are tough to beat. Sporting a tubular design with non-slip composite step pads, these steps deliver timeless styling and exceptional functionality. Built from robust 16-gauge steel and finished in a corrosion-resistant powder coat, these steps are engineered to last the test of time. 

Installation is quick and easy with the included vehicle-specific brackets, hardware, and instructions—no modifications are required. Ionic backs each order with a 3-year warranty. 

Features: 

• 16-gauge carbon steel construction

• Corrosion and abrasion-resistant gloss-black coat finish

• Cab-length design

• Three-inch wide step surface

• Non-slip composite step pads

• Vehicle-specific mounting brackets

• Simple bolt-on installation

• 3-year warranty

RealTruck Go Rhino RB20 Slim Running Boards

If you wanted a Ranger Raptor but couldn't justify the price tag, consider upgrading your standard Ranger with the Raptor-inspired styling of Go Rhino® RB20 slim running boards from RealTruck. Sporting an ultra-low profile and aggressive angular styling, these steps are a sure-fire way to make your Ranger stand out in a crowd. 

They don't just look great, however. Go Rhino RB20 slim running boards are built to conquer even the most challenging terrains with their heavy-duty 16-gauge galvanized steel construction, zinc-plated base coat, and rugged textured finish. 

Vehicle-specific designs and mounting kits mean that, regardless of the application, installing these running boards is as simple as bolting them to your truck. Go Rhino backs each order with the confidence of a limited lifetime structural warranty and a 5-year finish warranty. 

Features: 

• Heavy-duty 16-gauge galvanized steel construction

• Corrosion-resistant zinc plating

• Textured powder coat or polyurethane finishes offer enhanced traction and weather resistance

• Rugged perforations allow water, mud, and snow drainage

• Includes vehicle-specific mounting brackets and hardware

• Simple bolt-on installation

• 5-5-in. step

• Aggressive Raptor-inspired styling

• Limited lifetime structural | 5-year finish warranty

RealTruck VoltStep Electric Running Boards

Though AMP steps have long been our number one recommendation for power-retractable running boards, a new opponent has finally entered the market. Introducing the VoltStep electric running boards from RealTruck—high-end, power-retractable steps for considerably less than our high-end PowerStep. 

Featuring durable aluminum construction, a 6-inch-wide board, and a limited 5-year warranty, the VoltStep is a solid option for Ranger owners looking to save a buck while still enjoying the benefits of power-retractable running boards. 

Features: 

• Lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloy construction

• Sleek and corrosion-resistant textured black powder coat finish

• Ribbed, board-length, 6-inch-wide stepping surface aids vehicle entry

• Magnetically-actuated door switches automatically deploy running boards

• Integrated LED lighting illuminates deployed running boards for increased visibility and safety

• Interior bypass switch overrides automatic step functions, easing cargo loading, carwashes, etc.

• Limited 5-year warranty

Havoc HS2 Black Hoop Steps

Lastly, let's check out one of our best-selling hoop steps—the Havoc HS2. These stylish steps feature a traditional hoop step form factor, including a durable cab-length tube with drop steps at each door. While the drop steps provide a stable step into your Ranger's cab, the cab-length main tube offers solid rocker protection against dents, dings, and rock chips. 

Durable stainless steel construction means these steps won't ever rust, regardless of the climate. A matte black powder coat finish further assists corrosion protection, ensuring years of reliable service. 

Havoc backs its HS2 black hoop steps 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