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. 1 139 Reviews AMP Research 76139-01A PowerStep Running Boards, 2016-2017 Ram 1500/2500/3500, All Cabs,Black Only compatible with 2016-2017 RAM 1500/2500/3500, all cabs.Trimming needed for Quad and Regular Cabs. See Installation Guide.Factory Air Ride Suspension requires Air Tank Relocation Kit on HD models. Purchase kit before installation. $1,649.00 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 2 Tyger Auto TG-BL8C7158 Blade Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 & 2020-2022 2500/3500HD Crew Cab, 88" Long & 6.6" Wide, Textured Black, Side Step IMPORTANT: Only fit Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors, (Please check the Cab size picture)One piece structure and powder coated black textured finish provides both stylish look and rust-resistantWith specially designed double sided brackets, Tyger Blade can hold up to 300 pounds from each side, Extra wide (6,6 inch) step area helps you get in and out of your vehicle with ease $454.70 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 3 APS Aluminum Drop Steps Running Boards for Selected Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab US patented design drop step side armor made of 2" aluminum square tube, E-coating black powder finish.Robotic welding for precision manufacturing to ensure OE quality standards.Support up to 300 lbs weight capacity for light weight urban use, provides better fuel economy and aggressive looking. $299.00 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 4 2 Reviews HD Ridez Running Board 6" Black Compatible with Dodge Grand Caravan 2011-2020 & Chrysler Town Country 2011-2016 (Nerf Bar Side Steps Side Bars) Set of 6-inch OE style black running boards - Compatible with Grand Caravan 2011-2020 - MinivanSolid Aluminum Build - Aircraft grade aluminum for corrosiion protection and strength (500 lbs load capacity)Slip Resistant - 100% corrugated surface ensures maximum grip and traction in all weather conditions $260.95 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Sale Bestseller No. 5 123 Reviews OEDRO 6.5" Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 & 2007-2019 2500/3500HD Crew Cab, Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars for More Fuel Efficiency, Black Textured Precise Compatibility: OEDRO running boards compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 & 2007-2019 2500/3500HD Crew Cab. NOT for Diesel Engine (Please confirm the cab picture in the listing before ordering.)High-Performance Side Pedals: Extremely wide 6.5in pedal grants safe and convenient entry and exit from your vehicle; Step pad of these side steps is made from stamped stainless steel and coated with durable textured black powder for additional traction and corrosion resistanceStrong and Durable: Aluminum construction ensures unshakable rigidity, while aluminum alloy bulkheads on both ends provide added strength. Proven to handle up to 450 lbs. without bending. $229.99 −$20.00 $209.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Sale Bestseller No. 6 349 Reviews AMP Research 76254-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards Plug, 1 Pack , Black Your purchase includes One pack of two AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards with LED light system, 76254-01A model | Mounting Hardware, Wiring & Installation Instructions | Drilling requiredCompatible Vehicles – 2019/2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew or Extended | 2019/2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew or Extended | 2020 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD Crew or Extended | 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 HD Crew or ExtendedWeight capacity – 600 lbs. each side | Drop – 6” $1,596.44 −$172.44 $1,424.00 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Sale Bestseller No. 7 OEDRO 6.5" Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2022 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab(NOT for 19-22 Classic) Stamped Stainless Steel Step Pad, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bar Precise Compatibility: OEDRO running boards compatible with 2019-2021 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Quad Cab (Please confirm the cab picture in the listing before ordering.)High-Performance Side Pedals: Extremely wide 6.5in pedal grants safe and convenient entry and exit from your vehicle; Step pad of these side steps is made from stamped stainless steel and coated with durable textured black powder for additional traction and corrosion resistanceStrong and Durable: Aluminum construction ensures unshakable rigidity, while aluminum alloy bulkheads on both ends provide added strength; Each nerf bar was proven to handle up to 350 lbs. without bending $219.99 −$20.00 $199.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 8 8 Reviews Raptor Series 1902-0062BT 5 inch Black Textured Aluminum Treadsteps Running Boards for Classic Body Crew Cab 09-22 Dodge Ram 1500 10-22 Ram 2500/3500 Only fits Classic body style Crew cab = 4 full size doors. Fits all 1500 Ecodiesel models. Installs to the rocker panelFull length 5 inch wide tread style slip-resistant step pads give easy access to the cab of the truck with a rugged modern appearance and matching end caps that protect the ends of your boards. Constructed from strong, lightweight, corrosion resistant aircraft grade aluminum with a black textured finish. Heavy duty brackets provide a 400 pound weight rating per sideCustom slide track system gives you the flexibility to adjust the position of your boards to your liking while still providing you a no-drill rocker panel install $371.99 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 9 APS iBoard Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Ford Expedition 1997-2017 (Exclude EL Model) (Not Fit Funkmaster Flex Edition) (Nerf Bars Side Steps Side Bars) Package includes: (2) iBoard running boards, mounting brackets and hardware kit for an easy DIY installHeavy Duty 6-inch Wide Running Boards with Raised Ends that Act as Mud GuardsMade from Aircraft grade 6061-T6 Aluminum, the Board and Metal Ends are Weld Together for Seamless Integration - Guaranteed to Stay On Forever $260.95 Buy on Amazon Partner Offer Bestseller No. 10 32 Reviews Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board Replacement for Ford F-150 Crew Cab 04-14（4 Full Size Door）,6 Inch Step Pad Design,OE Style (Black Powder-Coating) 👍「 FITMENT 」：Fit 04-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab（4 full size doors）.Please confirm the size before ordering, the product is not suitable for super cab👍「 MATERIAL」: Width 6 Inches For Maximum Comfort In Stepping .wide Enough To Feel Sturdy And Safe But Not Too Wide To Look Awkward. Made With Premium Matted Black Coated Steel. Heavy Duty Material.👍「EASY TO INSTALL」: Easy Bolt-on Installation. No Drilling Or Cutting Required. All Mounting Hardware And Installation Instruction Included. Mount The Mounting Brackets Under The Truck First Then The Running Boards. The Attaching Bolts Fit Into A Groove That Allows Them To Slide To The Proper Spot Then Torque Them Down And That's It $165.99 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