For truck, pickup truck, and jeep owners, finding the right accessories is about blending style with performance. Step bars and step rails are two of the most popular upgrades, known for adding both a rugged look and practical functionality. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or simply looking to make your truck or jeep easier to access, these accessories deliver on all fronts. Here’s everything you need to know about step bars and step rails, and why they’re worth considering for your vehicle.
Why Step Bars and Step Rails Steps?
Step bars and step rails are designed to add more than just convenience; they bring safety, style, and protection to your vehicle. Both options help with easy access to lifted or larger vehicles, making entry and exit more secure for both drivers and passengers. Additionally, by covering the lower portion of your truck or jeep, these accessories help shield the body from rocks, mud, and other debris that can damage paint or metalwork, especially during off-road adventures. Moreover, step bars and step rails can improve ground clearance during off-road adventures, making it easier to navigate rough terrains.
For daily drivers, step bars and rails also provide a unique aesthetic touch that sets your vehicle apart. They’re a practical investment with a visual appeal, helping your vehicle stand out whether you’re in the city or on a dirt trail.
Understanding the Differences: Step Bars vs. Step Rails
While often grouped together, step bars and step rails offer different benefits in terms of style, design, and function. These accessories are also commonly referred to as side steps. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Step Bars: Step bars, also known as nerf bars, are usually round or oval in shape and extend from the front to the back of the cab, sitting slightly lower than the body of the vehicle. They’re built tough, with a high-strength tubular design that can withstand rough terrain, heavy use, and the elements. Step bars often feature anti-slip pads at each door, giving passengers a secure stepping point that’s especially useful in wet or muddy conditions.
Because of their resilient build, step bars are favored by off-roaders and anyone who frequently encounters tough driving conditions. They’re available in various materials and finishes—like black powder coat, polished stainless steel, and chrome—to match or accent your vehicle’s look. This makes step bars not only functional but also a way to add a distinctive, customized style that complements your truck or jeep’s rugged nature.
Step Rails: Step rails, on the other hand, offer a sleeker, more integrated look. They often sit closer to the body of the vehicle and feature a flat, streamlined design, giving your truck or jeep a more subtle appearance compared to the bold look of step bars. Step rails are typically positioned along the rocker panels and can provide a stepping point while maintaining a low profile.
Their aesthetic is ideal for truck or jeep owners looking for a refined look without sacrificing function. Step rails also come in a variety of finishes and materials, so they’re versatile enough to suit both a rugged off-road build and a more refined, city-friendly setup. While they’re durable enough for everyday driving and light off-roading, step rails tend to be favored by those who want a blend of style and minimalism.
Benefits and Features of Running Boards
Running boards offer a range of benefits and features that make them an excellent addition to any pickup truck. One of the most significant advantages is improved accessibility. Running boards provide a secure step surface, making it easier to get in and out of the truck, especially for people with mobility issues. This added convenience is invaluable for daily use, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a comfortable ride.
Enhanced safety is another key benefit. By providing a stable step surface, running boards reduce the risk of slipping and falling, ensuring a safer ride for both drivers and passengers. This is particularly important in wet or icy conditions, where the risk of accidents is higher.
For those who frequently access their truck, running boards offer increased convenience. Whether you’re a worker needing to load and unload tools or an outdoor enthusiast gearing up for an adventure, running boards make it easier to get in and out of your vehicle.
Additionally, running boards come with a variety of customization options. Available in numerous styles, finishes, and configurations, they allow truck owners to personalize their ride to suit their preferences. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a rugged, off-road style, there’s a running board to match your vision.
Types of Running Boards
Running boards come in various types, each with its unique features and benefits. One popular option is electric running boards. These innovative boards deploy from beneath the vehicle’s rocker panels when a door is opened and tuck back into place when not in use. This offers a sleek appearance and improved ground clearance, making them a favorite among tech-savvy truck owners.
Standard running boards provide a fixed step surface and are a more traditional option. They offer reliable functionality and are often chosen for their straightforward design and ease of use.
For those looking for a more compact solution, cab-length running boards are an excellent choice. These boards stretch only the length of the cab, providing a convenient step surface without extending the full length of the vehicle.
On the other hand, wheel-to-wheel running boards stretch past the cab along the bedside, offering additional steps for convenient cargo access. This type is particularly useful for truck owners who frequently need to reach into the bed of their vehicle.
Materials and Construction
Running boards are made from a variety of materials, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Aluminum running boards are a popular choice due to their lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. They offer a durable solution that doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your truck.
Steel running boards, known for their strength and durability, provide excellent support and can withstand heavy use. They are ideal for truck owners who need a robust and reliable product that can handle tough conditions.
For those seeking a lightweight and low-maintenance option, fiberglass running boards are an excellent choice. Fiberglass is resistant to corrosion and offers a durable solution that requires minimal upkeep, making it a practical option for many truck owners.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Truck or Jeep
When it comes to choosing between step bars and step rails, think about how you plan to use your truck or jeep and what kind of look you’re going for. Additionally, consider the importance of the installation process when selecting the right running boards for your vehicle. If you’re regularly off-roading, step bars are typically more suited for the job. Their tougher construction and protruding design offer not only a durable stepping point but also added protection against rocks and debris that could impact your vehicle’s lower panels. On the other hand, if your vehicle spends most of its time in the city or on smooth roads, step rails can be an ideal choice. They provide a boost in accessibility and protect the vehicle from minor road debris while keeping a low-profile look that seamlessly fits with your vehicle’s lines. Both options come in a range of materials and finishes, so whether you prefer the clean look of polished chrome, the strength of stainless steel, or the boldness of a black powder coat, there’s a design that fits your personal style and vehicle.Installation and Compatibility
Running boards are designed to be easy to install and compatible with a wide range of truck models. One key feature to consider is the mounting configuration. Running boards come in two primary mounting configurations: frame-mount and rocker-mount. Frame-mount running boards offer more strength and durability, making them ideal for heavy-duty use. Rocker-mount running boards, on the other hand, provide quicker installations and are suitable for lighter applications. When selecting a running board, it’s essential to consider the year, make, and model compatibility. Running boards are designed to fit specific truck models, so it’s crucial to select a board that matches your truck’s specifications. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance. Another important factor is the action of the running board. Some running boards require manual deployment, while others deploy automatically when a door is opened. Automatic running boards offer added convenience and a sleek appearance, while manual boards provide a more traditional and straightforward solution.
