Getting in and out of high-riding trucks, vans and SUVs can be an awkward and cumbersome experience, even for those who aren’t vertically challenged. Thankfully, running boards, nerf bars and sidesteps exist to make entering, exiting and mounting rooftop accessories easier and safer. 

Most automakers offer running boards as factory accessories, but the choices greatly expand when one considers the aftermarket variety. Available in a plethora of sizes, shapes and colors, there’s no shortage of choices. 

But bear in mind, manufacturers tailor their boards to specific vehicles because they mount directly to the vehicle’s frame or chassis. Except for some sidestep options, there’s no true one-size-fits-all solution. That said, it’s important to be sure about which running boards you choose as sometimes, but rarely, they require physical drilling or alterations to the vehicle’s underbody.

There are many options available, but to help simplify your shopping, we’ve assembled a list of some of the best aftermarket running boards money can buy.

If you’ve searched for running boards before, there’s a high chance you’ve heard of APS, and for good reason. APS is one of the most popular running board manufacturers. The company’s choice descriptor for their “iPhone-inspired” design might seem far-fetched, but it’s reflected in their clean and fuss-free design. But above all, they’re very functional thanks to their corrosion-resistant aluminum construction, 300-pound weight rating and five-inch-wide stepping surface. APS does offer a wide variety of running boards for all kinds of trucks, so it’s best to make sure to find the one engineered for your specific vehicle. 

Want the best and coolest running boards where cost is no object? AMP Research has its line of PowerStep running boards. Like the ones found standard on some high-end SUVs and trucks, they extend and retract automatically as you open and close the doors. They also feature integrated lighting that provides extra visibility and are made of sturdy aircraft-grade PTFE-coated aluminum. So they’ll last a very long time while being able to withstand some abuse. But be prepared to put in some work, or hire a professional, as DIY customers note that the mounting process is not easy. But thankfully, AMP Research provides all the mounting gear, adapters and modules needed for a plug-and-play installation.

If you often find yourself in harsh environments, then Go Rhino has some of the toughest running boards around. Its RB20 line features a tough 16-gauge galvanized steel construction and a matte powder coat finish, meaning they’re as tough and rust-resistant as they look. Their fully welded and closed boxed-end design also prevents damage from rocks and other debris and is superior to other boards with plastic or covered-end caps. That’s ideal for off-roaders. But most of all, Go Rhino offers one of the longest warranties at five years and customers have been very positively vocal about the California-based company’s customer service. 

Want the practical benefits of running boards but without the bulky look? Look no further than KYX’s line of side-step nerf bars. Like full-size running boards, KYX’s Sidestep Nerf Bars utilize a one-piece aluminum construction that’s capable of holding up to 500 pounds. But unlike regular running boards, the side steps are the only parts that protrude from underneath, giving a nice, clean and low-profile appearance that doesn’t alter your truck’s appearance too greatly. Additionally, many customers voiced their satisfaction, not just with their construction and look, but the easy installation. They’re offered in a wide range of sizes tailored to specific model years of vehicles, so make sure to find the one that fits yours.

Seeking a simple yet functional running board that looks like it came from the factory? TAC’s line of Viewpoint running boards is the one to consider. Produced for a wide variety of trucks, crossovers and even minivans, their tough marine-grade aluminum boards feature a corrugated rubber step pad for extra grip. Similar to Go Rhino, TAC bundles its running boards with all the necessary mounting gear, plus a five-year warranty. However, depending on the vehicle application, some users did note that body modifications, such as drilling or thread tapping, were required for proper fitment.

Bestselling Running Boards on Amazon Sponsored Bestseller No. 1 18 Reviews AMP Research 76243-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards Plug N' Play System for 2019 Ram 2500/3500 (Gas Only) Automatic, electric-powered running boards instantly extend when you open your door, and then hides itself safely out of sight when the doors close; Includes low-profile, integrated LED light system.High-strength, die-cast aluminum alloy components with an anodized and PTFE-coated, military-spec finish to resist corrosionPrecision stainless steel pivot pins for rock-solid stability and maintenance free self-lubricating bushings for all-weather performance; 600 pound capacity (each side) $1,649.00 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 2 65 Reviews OEDRO 6 Inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2022 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab(Excl. 2019 1500 LD/Limited), Bolt-on Side Steps Steel Nerf Bars Compatibility: OEDRO drop running boards will perfectly compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, 2020-2022 2500HD 3500HD(Excl. 2019 1500 LD/Limited)Functional Protection: ① 6inch side steps feature two-stair layout to provide better convenience for vehicles with lift kits and oversized wheel tires. Also allows for easier rooftop operation.② Three-tube design provides more protection for the bottom and the side of the car, also preventing from getting stuck on the rocker plate or hanging obstaclesBolt-on Installation: Welded brackets provide additional strength.Package contains 2 nerf bars, set of brackets & hardware; Installation can be completed within 20 minutes with no cutting or drilling $399.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 3 594 Reviews OEDRO Running Boards Compatible with Two Stairs Design All-Steel Build, Bolt-on Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Black Powder Coated Nerf Bar Compatibility: OEDRO step bars feature a distinct drop-down step design that’s perfectly compatible with 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door.Functional Convenience: Features two-stair layout to provide better convenience for vehicles with lift kits and oversized wheel tires. Also allows for easier rooftop operation.Strong and Durable: Welded brackets provide additional strength. Assembly is quick and simple with the minimum number of accessories needed. No cutting or drilling required. $367.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 4 10 Reviews Running Boards Compatible with 2022 Toyota Tundra Crewmax Cab（4 Full Size Door Black Flat Oval Running Boards 2 Peice Set Side Steps Nerf Bars Tundra Stainless Steel Running Boards 🛻 【FITMENT 】：Nerf Bars Fit 2022 Tundra Crew Max Models Only .did Not Fit 2007-2021🛻【TUNDRA RUNNING BOARDS MATERIAL】：Othowe Side Steps Made Of Stainless steel And Anti-slip Plastic Steps.it's Firm To Step On And Doesn't Flex. Designed Specifically Around The Tundra Truck. Tundra Step Bars Are As Attractive As They Are Functional.🛻【6.5 INCH RUNNING BOARDS】： This Running Board Is Newly Designed. The Wide 6.5-inch Steps And 6-inch Bar Provide A Larger Area For Getting On And Off, Allowing Your Entire Foot To Be Firmly Attached To The Pedals. Equipped With 4 Mounting Brackets On Each Side,that Ensures Safety And The Product's Stability After Installation $249.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Sale Bestseller No. 5 20 Reviews Westin Automotive Products 56-24015 Textured Black HDX Xtreme Board Mount kit includedOversized step areas for easier cab entry and exitInjection molded polymer step pad $600.60 −$104.61 $495.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 6 24 Reviews 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2022 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon Crew Cab, Running Boards & Steps for Colorado (Black) 👍「 FITMENT 」:compatible with 2015-2022 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon Crew Cab👍「 MATERIAL」: Running Boards For colorado Crew Cab，made With Black Powder Coated And Anti-slip Plastic Steps.they Can Resist The Corrosion Of Salt Spray, And Withstand Uv Radiation Without Discoloration.6-inch Wide Step, Offer A Secure Footing From Which You Can Step Up Into Your Truck👍「EASY TO INSTALL」:Just Mounted It , Direct Bolt On , No Need To Drill. And Also Each Bar Can Support Up To 500lbs.include Two Steps ( One Left And One Right ) Mounting Brackets & Hardware & Installation $169.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 7 36 Reviews for 2005-2018 Chevy Tahoe / GMC Yukon Sport Utility 4-Door & 2002-2006 Avalanche Crew Cab (Nerf Bar | Side Steps) 6" Black Eboard Running Boards Set of 2 Black Powder Coated Aluminum Running Boards in OEM Style for your CHEVY TAHOENewly Patented Design - T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum Running Boards with Seamless Weld-on Metal Ends6" End to End, UV Resistant, Non-Slip Step Pad that is Easy to Clean and Comfortable to Step On $290.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 8 1,136 Reviews Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor Kit Compatible with 2005-2022 Tacoma Double Cab | Textured Black | Side Step | Nerf Bars | Running Boards IMPORTANT: Only fit Double Cab with 4 full-size doors. NOT for Access Cab with 2 full-size front doors & 2 suicided rear doors.(Please check the Cab Size picture.)TYGER unique patented STAR metal step pads serve a helpful step in and out of the cab. Particularly useful on lifted pickup trucks & SUVs. Dual girder system provides maximum protection for underside from damaging impacts.Up to 500 LBS weight capacity for each side. Heavy-duty 2inch diameter tubes. One-piece design. Dual stage powder coated textured black finish.Use only mild soap to clean the Tyger Armor $438.17 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 9 623 Reviews 6'' Running Boards for 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra Crew Cab（not Suitable for 2020-2021 Silverado） A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackes and Plastic Covers) 👍「 FITMENT 」：Running Boards For Silverado Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors)2007-2018 ,if You Accidentally Bought The Wrong Model, Please Contact Us And We Will Re-issue The Correct Bracket For You Without Returning The Product, Thank You)⚠️:NOT Suitable For 2019-2021 Silverado New Body Style And Not For Diesel Engine⚠️:Not Suitable For Double Cab(3/4 Size Rear Doors) $165.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 10 59 Reviews AMP Research 77135-01A PowerStep XL Electric Running Boards for 2020 Jeep Gladiator ,Black Provides a 3” lower stepping surface than the original PowerStep when deployed; When retracted, boards tuck up into a 6063 Marine grade aluminum rock rail for a bold, rugged lookAutomatic, electric-powered running boards instantly extend when you open your door, and then hides itself safely out of sight when the doors close; Includes low-profile, integrated LED light system.High-texture, powder coated finish for maximum grip and durability; High-strength, die-cast aluminum-alloy components and integrated bracket system support up to 600 pounds (each side) $2,099.00 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer

If your truck, van or SUV didn’t come with factory running boards, the aftermarket choices are aplenty and we sifted through the dizzying selection to find the best-performing, best-rated and bestselling running boards with the highest customer feedback on the market. But the variety of quality manufacturers and different kinds of running boards don’t stop at this list. So if you’re considering this add-on to your vehicle, it’s important to weigh your options and consider your wants and needs as there can be different benefits and some compromises, depending on which ones you choose.

For partnership inquiries please reach out to us at partnerships@forbeswheels.com