Running boards are one of the few accessories that have a quantifiable daily benefit — getting in and out of a lifted truck without launching yourself or your kids. The category splits into power-deploying boards (expensive but functional) and fixed boards (most owners pick these).
We tested 47 products across both categories. The good news: even mid-range boards work well for most people. The bad news: there's no shortage of garbage at the bottom of the market.
Our Top 10 Ranked
Here's the list. Detailed reviews of each below the table. Top pick is the one we'd hand to a friend without hesitation.
| Product | BTA Score | Warranty | Install | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 — AMP Research PowerStep Plus | 9.1 | 5-year | 2–3 hours | From $1,899 |
| #2 — Westin HDX Drop Steps | 8.7 | Limited Lifetime | 1–2 hours | From $549 |
| #3 — ARIES AeroTread Running Boards | 8.5 | Limited Lifetime | 1 hour | From $499 |
| #4 — Go Rhino RB10 Running Boards | 8.3 | Limited Lifetime | 1 hour | From $429 |
| #5 — N-FAB Wheel-To-Wheel Nerf Bars | 8.0 | 5-year | 1 hour | From $499 |
How We Test
Step Height. Does the height actually help shorter passengers?
Tread Grip. How does the surface feel in rain, snow, and mud?
Finish Durability. Will the powdercoat or finish hold up to weather?
Mounting Quality. Are the mounts vehicle-specific and reinforced?
Load Rating. Does the load capacity match real-world use?
AMP Research PowerStep Plus
Running boards are simpler than people make them out to be. Here's the honest ranking.
The Full Ranking
AMP Research PowerStep Plus
The category standard for power-deploying boards. Tucks up out of the way off-road, drops down when you open the door. Plug-and-play install on most trucks.
Westin HDX Drop Steps
Heavy-duty drop steps that actually drop low enough to help short adults and kids. Powdercoat holds up well.
ARIES AeroTread Running Boards
Sleek aluminum boards with rubber tread inserts. More refined look than tubular steps, premium pricing.
Go Rhino RB10 Running Boards
Solid mid-range boards with multiple finish options. Hex-pattern rubber tread holds up.
N-FAB Wheel-To-Wheel Nerf Bars
Tubular steps that extend back to the rear wheel. Useful for accessing the bed at the side. Bed-step pads are a nice touch.
Westin Pro-e Power Step
Westin's answer to the AMP Research PowerStep. Cheaper, slightly noisier motor. Same general idea.
Lund Curved Oval Nerf Bars
Classic oval tubular bars. Look the part on a stock truck. Powdercoat sometimes chips at mounting points.
Smittybilt Sure Step Side Bars
Budget-friendly nerf bars. Get the job done. Powdercoat is hit or miss depending on production batch.
TYGER AUTO Star Armor Boards
The bargain pick. Functional, doesn't look terrible, won't last as long as the premium options.
Off-Brand Universal Side Steps
Universal-fit boards. They almost-fit your truck. The mounting brackets won't survive a year of weather. Avoid.