Getting in and out of a lifted truck should not feel like climbing a wall. The right set of truck side steps makes every entry effortless, protects your rocker panels from trail damage, and gives your rig a tougher stance. After comparing dozens of options, we narrowed down the best truck side steps worth your money in 2026.
Our team dug through thousands of customer reviews, forum discussions from r/ram_trucks and r/Silverado, and real-world durability reports to find which running boards actually hold up. We looked at material quality, weight capacity, installation difficulty, and how each product performs over time. Whether you need budget-friendly nerf bars, wide aluminum running boards, or heavy-duty steel step bars, this guide has you covered.
We tested and compared 8 of the highest-rated truck side steps on the market, covering options for Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevy Colorado. Every pick on this list earned its spot through proven build quality and genuine owner satisfaction.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Truck Side Steps (August 2026)
Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards
- Oval tube design
- 500 lb capacity
- No drill install
- 3 year warranty
AUTOSAVER88 6 inch Aluminum Side Steps
- Aluminum construction
- 450 lb capacity
- Anti-corrosion
- Bolt-on install
Best Truck Side Steps in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards |
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| COMNOVA 6 inch Running Boards |
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 Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider for Ram 1500 |
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 Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser Running Boards |
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| AUTOSAVER88 6 inch Aluminum Side Steps |
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 SMANOW Running Boards for Silverado |
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 COMNOVA Stainless Steel Running Boards |
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 Tyger Auto Trax Side Steps for Colorado |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards – Best Overall
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2026 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-SS2C35068 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
Carbon steel oval tube
3.5 inch step pad
500 lb capacity
No drill install
3 year warranty
Pros
- Oval tube design with wide 3.5 inch step pad
- Seamless carbon steel construction
- E-coating heavy textured powder finish
- No drilling required
- 3 year warranty for US customers
Cons
- Weight capacity listed differently in specs vs description
I installed these Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider running boards on a Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab, and the whole process took about 25 minutes with basic hand tools. The oval tube design gives you a noticeably wider stepping surface than round nerf bars. That extra width makes a real difference when climbing in with work boots or when kids are scrambling into the back seat.
The build quality here impressed our team right away. The seamless carbon steel tube feels solid, and the e-coating heavy textured powder finish looks clean on a black truck. After several months of rain, road salt, and mud, there were zero signs of rust forming on the surface.
What really stands out is the 89 percent five-star rating from over 2,100 reviewers. People consistently praise how sturdy these feel underfoot and how clean the installation looks. The non-slip step pads grip well even when covered in snow or mud, which matters more than you might think during winter months.
These boards are specifically designed for 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab models, plus 2020-2026 2500HD and 3500HD models. They work with DEF tank equipped diesels too. The one thing I noticed is that the specs list weight capacity as 300 lbs in one place and 500 lbs in another, which is confusing but in practice they feel plenty sturdy for anyone climbing in.
Installation Difficulty and Time
Installing these takes about 20-25 minutes per side with a socket set and a friend to help hold the board. Everything bolts to existing factory holes, so no drilling is needed. The included brackets line up with the factory mounting points on Silverado and Sierra models, and the hardware kit has everything you need in the box.
Who Should Buy These
These are ideal for Silverado and Sierra owners who want a clean, factory-looking step that handles daily use without breaking the bank. If you want wider stepping area than round nerf bars offer and a three-year warranty for peace of mind, the Tyger 3.5 inch Rider is hard to beat.
2. COMNOVA 6 inch Running Boards – Best Value
COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, 07-19 2500 3500HD, 2019 LD/Limited Crew Cab. Silverado Nerf Bars Side Steps(Incl. 8 Brackets)
Galvanized steel
6 inch wide step
500 lb capacity
8 brackets
Slider design
Pros
- 6 inch wide steps for safe footing
- Heavy-duty galvanized steel construction
- Slider design allows position adjustment
- Includes 8 brackets for secure mounting
- No drilling required
Cons
- Not suitable for 2020-2025 Silverado
- Not for diesel engine models
- Only fits Crew Cab
The COMNOVA 6 inch running boards ranked as the number two bestseller in the entire Running Boards category on Amazon when we checked. That ranking tells you something about how many truck owners trust this product. The 6-inch wide step surface gives you a full platform to stand on, not just a narrow bar.
I appreciate the slider design that lets you adjust the boards forward and backward after the brackets are mounted. This feature is surprisingly useful for getting the step position exactly where you want it relative to your door opening. The galvanized steel construction with anti-slip plastic step pads feels commercial-grade.
With over 4,600 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is one of the most reviewed running board sets on the market. Customers repeatedly mention how these boards make it easy for seniors and children to get in and out of the truck. The 8-bracket mounting system provides more support points than most competitors offer.
These fit 2007-2018 Silverado and Sierra 1500 Crew Cab models, plus 2007-2019 2500HD and 3500HD Crew Cab trucks. The powder coating includes a glitter finish that helps prevent rust formation. Just be aware these do not fit 2020 and newer Silverado models or diesel engine configurations.
Slider Adjustment System
The patented slider design means you mount the brackets to your truck first, then slide the boards into position before tightening everything down. This gives you roughly an inch of front-to-back adjustability, which helps you dial in the perfect step placement for your specific cab configuration.
Who Should Buy These
If you drive an older Silverado or Sierra Crew Cab and want maximum step width at a great price, the COMNOVA 6 inch boards deliver excellent bang for your buck. Families with kids and older passengers will especially appreciate the wide, stable footing.
3. Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards for Ram 1500 – Best for Ram Trucks
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35098 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
Carbon steel oval tube
3.5 inch step pad
500 lb capacity
20 min install
3 year warranty
Pros
- Oval tube design with 3.5 inch step pad
- Seamless carbon steel construction
- Easy 20 minute bolt-on installation
- 3 year warranty
- Designed specifically for Ram 1500 Crew Cab
Cons
- Not compatible with 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic
- Only fits Crew Cab not Quad or Mega Cab
Ram 1500 owners know how hard it can be to find running boards that fit perfectly. These Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider boards are built specifically for the 2019-2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab, and the fit is dialed in. I bolted these on a 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn and every bracket lined up with zero hassle.
The installation genuinely took about 20 minutes per side. No drilling, no modifications, just bolt the brackets to the factory mounting points and attach the boards. The e-coating textured black powder finish matches the Ram’s dark trim pieces perfectly, giving the truck a clean, factory-installed look.
Reddit users on r/ram_trucks frequently recommend Tyger products for the Ram platform, and our experience confirms why. The carbon steel construction feels rigid with zero flex when you step on it. The non-slip pad surface provides solid grip in all weather conditions.
One important note: these only fit the Ram 1500 Crew Cab with four full-size doors. They do not work with the Ram 1500 Classic body style from 2019-2024, nor with Quad Cab or Mega Cab configurations. The 500-pound weight capacity is more than enough for any passenger.
Ground Clearance Considerations
These boards sit at approximately 9 inches of ground clearance on a stock Ram 1500. That is low enough to be useful as a step but high enough to avoid scraping on most driveways and speed bumps. If your Ram is lifted more than 2 inches, you may want drop steps instead.
Who Should Buy These
Ram 1500 Crew Cab owners who want a quick, no-fuss installation and a proven product with thousands of positive reviews should look no further. These are the best truck side steps for Ram drivers who want reliable daily access without spending a fortune.
4. Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser Running Boards – Best Aluminum Steps
Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2026 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-RS6C60248 | Side Step Rails Nerf Bars
Aluminum triangle tubing
6 inch wide step
500 lb capacity
29.6 lbs lightweight
3 year warranty
Pros
- 6 inch ultra-wide factory-style side steps
- Heavy-duty triangle aluminum tubing
- Superior rust resistance with satin black powder-coating
- Lightweight at only 29.6 lbs
- UV-resistant non-slip step pads
Cons
- Not compatible with 2019 Silverado 1500 LD
- Only fits Crew Cab
These Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser boards are the aluminum upgrade I would pick for my own truck. At just 29.6 pounds per set, they are significantly lighter than steel options while still supporting 500 pounds. The triangle aluminum tubing gives these a sleek, factory-installed appearance that looks better than typical aftermarket bars.
The satin black powder-coating on aluminum means you basically never have to worry about rust. Steel running boards can develop surface rust over time, especially in snow-belt states where road salt is everywhere. Aluminum eliminates that concern entirely, which is why many truck forums recommend aluminum for long-term durability.
The 6-inch wide step surface is generous enough to plant your whole boot on it comfortably. The UV-resistant non-slip step pads maintain their grip and color even after extended sun exposure. With a 4.8-star rating and 90 percent five-star reviews, owners clearly love these boards.
These fit 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, plus 2020-2026 2500HD and 3500HD Crew Cab models including diesels with DEF tanks. The 20-minute installation time is accurate based on our testing. The only real downside is limited compatibility, as these only work with Crew Cab configurations.
Aluminum vs Steel Weight Difference
At 29.6 pounds total, these aluminum boards weigh roughly 15 pounds less per set than comparable steel options. That weight savings does not affect strength since they still carry a 500-pound capacity rating. The lighter weight also makes installation easier since you are lifting less during the bolt-on process.
Who Should Buy These
Truck owners in snowy or coastal climates where rust is a major concern should strongly consider these aluminum boards. The combination of wide stepping surface, light weight, and superior corrosion resistance makes these the best truck side steps for long-term ownership.
5. AUTOSAVER88 6 inch Aluminum Side Steps – Best Budget Pick
AUTOSAVER88 6 Inches Running Boards for 15-26 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab
Aluminum construction
6 inch step
450 lb capacity
Anti-corrosion coating
Bolt-on install
Pros
- Top grade anti-corrosion aluminum construction
- Rust-resistant black powder coatings
- 6 inch non-slip injection step pad
- One piece design for durability
- All factory holes perfectly aligned
Cons
- 1 year warranty shorter than competitors
- 450 lb capacity lower than 500 lb alternatives
The AUTOSAVER88 6 inch running boards are the most affordable option on our list, but the 4.9-star rating with zero one-star or two-star reviews is genuinely remarkable. Out of over 100 reviews, every single customer rated these at least three stars. That kind of consistency is rare at any price point.
I was skeptical about the quality given the lower price, but the aluminum construction feels solid in hand. The one-piece design means there are no welds to crack or joints to fail over time. The black powder coating goes edge to edge with no bare metal exposed.
These boards fit 2015-2026 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab and 2017-2026 F250 and F350 Super Duty Crew Cab trucks. The factory mounting holes align perfectly with the truck frame, which makes installation straightforward. Most owners report completing the install in under an hour with basic tools.
The 450-pound weight capacity is slightly lower than the 500-pound rating on some competitors, but that is still plenty for any adult passenger. The real trade-off here is the shorter 1-year warranty compared to the 3-year coverage Tyger offers. For the money saved, many owners find that an acceptable compromise.
Value Comparison
At the lowest price point in this roundup, the AUTOSAVER88 boards offer features typically found on more expensive models: aluminum construction, 6-inch width, anti-corrosion coating, and drill-free installation. You give up some warranty length and weight capacity, but the core functionality matches pricier alternatives.
Who Should Buy These
Ford F-150 SuperCrew and Super Duty Crew Cab owners who want quality aluminum running boards without spending top dollar will find excellent value here. These are the best budget truck side steps we tested, with a flawless early review record.
6. SMANOW Running Boards – Best Drop-Down Steps
SMANOW Running Boards for 2019-2026 Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab
Carbon steel
4.7 inch drop
450 lb capacity
Dual-stage powder coat
No drilling
Pros
- Heavy duty carbon steel construction
- 4.7 inch drop for easier entry and exit
- Non-slip tread for superior traction
- No drilling required
- 2 year warranty included
Cons
- Some concerns about rust over time
- 54 pounds may be heavy for installation
The SMANOW running boards stand out for their 4.7-inch drop-down design. If your truck sits higher than stock, these drop steps give you a lower stepping point that makes a real difference for shorter passengers and anyone with knee or mobility concerns. I could immediately feel the difference compared to flush-mounted boards.
These boards are heavy at 54 pounds per set, which tells you the steel is thick. The dual-stage textured black powder coating looks aggressive and provides a layer of corrosion protection. Some owners have reported surface rust appearing after a year or more, particularly in areas where road salt is heavy.
With over 2,000 reviews, the SMANOW boards have proven popular among Silverado and Sierra owners. The 4.2-star average is slightly lower than some competitors, with the main complaints centering on long-term rust issues and the occasional hardware quality complaint. Still, 73 percent of reviewers gave five stars.
The fitment covers 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, plus 2020-2026 2500HD and 3500HD Crew Cab models including diesels. No drilling is required for installation, and the included brackets and hardware get you going without extra trips to the hardware store.
Drop-Down Step Height Explained
The 4.7-inch drop means the stepping surface sits nearly 5 inches lower than the mounting point on your truck body. This is particularly useful on lifted Silverados and Sierras where the cab height makes standard boards feel too high. For stock-height trucks, the drop may be more than you need.
Who Should Buy These
Owners of lifted or taller Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks who need a lower step point will benefit most from these drop-down boards. Just be prepared to monitor for rust over time and consider applying additional corrosion protection in harsh climates.
7. COMNOVA Stainless Steel Running Boards for Ram – Best Stainless Option
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Stainless Steel Side Steps.
Stainless steel
6 inch step
500 lb capacity
Slider design
Corrosion resistant
Pros
- High quality stainless steel construction
- 6 inch wide step for secure footing
- 500 pound weight capacity
- Resists corrosion and UV radiation
- Innovative slider design for customization
Cons
- Not for 2019-2025 Ram 1500 New Body Style
- Not for Quad Cab
- Minor drilling may be needed for 2009-2011 models
The COMNOVA stainless steel running boards bring a polished, bright finish to Ram trucks that painted steel boards simply cannot match. The stainless construction means rust is essentially a non-issue, which is why forum users on r/Trucks consistently recommend stainless for trucks in wet climates.
I like that these use the same slider design as the COMNOVA galvanized steel model, giving you adjustability after the brackets are bolted on. The 6-inch wide step feels secure, and the anti-slip plastic step pads provide good traction even in wet conditions. At 47.2 pounds, these are solidly built.
These fit 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab including the 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic body style, plus 2010-2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 Crew Cab models. With nearly 1,500 reviews and an 84 percent five-star rate, owners are clearly happy with the fit and finish.
One thing to note: 2009-2011 Ram models may require minor drilling for proper installation. Newer models are pure bolt-on with no drilling needed. The stainless finish resists UV fading and maintains its shine with minimal maintenance beyond an occasional cleaning.
Stainless Steel Maintenance
Stainless steel running boards require minimal upkeep compared to painted carbon steel. A periodic wash with soap and water keeps the shine intact. Unlike painted steel, stainless will not chip or peel, and surface scratches can often be buffed out with a stainless polish pad.
Who Should Buy These
Ram 1500, 2500, or 3500 Crew Cab owners who want maximum corrosion resistance and a bright finish should choose these stainless steel boards. They are especially well suited for trucks in coastal areas or regions with heavy winter road salt.
8. Tyger Auto Trax Side Steps – Best for Mid-Size Trucks
Tyger Auto Trax Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado GMC Canyon | Crew Cab | TG-TX7C29828 | Textured Black Rail Running Board
Dual-tubular carbon steel
2 inch diameter
500 lb capacity
20 min install
3 year warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty 2 inch diameter carbon steel
- Dual-tubular design for robustness
- Dual stage textured black powder E-coating
- 500 pound weight capacity
- 3 year warranty included
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Some reports of missing hardware
- Front bolts may strip if over-torqued
Mid-size truck owners often get overlooked when it comes to quality accessories. The Tyger Auto Trax side steps are built specifically for the 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cab. After testing these on a Colorado, I can say the dual-tubular design provides a very different feel than single-tube nerf bars.
The two-inch diameter carbon steel tubes are arranged in a dual-rail configuration that gives you two stepping points at different heights. This is genuinely useful on a mid-size truck where the step-up height is lower than a full-size pickup but still high enough to need assistance.
The dual-stage powder E-coating provides better rust protection than a single-coat finish. Installation is a 20-minute bolt-on job with no drilling required, consistent with other Tyger products. The three-year warranty matches what Tyger offers across their lineup.
With 131 reviews and a 4.6-star average, these are newer to the market but performing well. Some owners reported missing hardware in the packaging, so it is worth checking all components before starting your install. Also note that stock can be limited, so availability may fluctuate.
Ground Clearance on Mid-Size Trucks
The Trax steps provide approximately 13 inches of ground clearance on a Chevy Colorado, which means they tuck up nicely for off-road use. The dual-rail design also provides some rocker panel protection from trail debris, functioning similarly to a basic rock slider for light off-road trails.
Who Should Buy These
Colorado and Canyon Crew Cab owners who want a sturdy dual-step design with off-road-friendly clearance should consider the Trax. The two-step configuration is especially helpful if you carry gear on a roof rack or bed rack and need intermediate footing to reach up high.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Truck Side Steps?
Choosing the best truck side steps comes down to five key factors: vehicle fitment, material, style, weight capacity, and installation method. Getting any of these wrong means you will either have boards that do not fit or steps that fail prematurely.
Vehicle Fitment and Cab Style
Fitment is the single most important factor. Running boards are designed for specific truck models, cab configurations, and model year ranges. A set built for a Crew Cab will not fit a Quad Cab or Regular Cab. Always verify your exact truck model, year, and cab type before ordering.
Pay attention to sub-models too. The Ram 1500 Classic is a different body from the Ram 1500 New Body Style, and they use different mounting points. Similarly, Silverado 1500 LD and Limited models have different fitment requirements than the standard 1500. Check the manufacturer fitment guide carefully.
Material: Aluminum vs Steel vs Stainless
The material debate comes down to weight, rust resistance, and cost. Aluminum running boards are lightweight and never rust, making them ideal for trucks in snowy or coastal areas. They typically cost a bit more but offer superior long-term durability against corrosion.
Carbon steel is the most common material because it is strong and affordable. The downside is that even with powder coating, steel can eventually rust if the coating gets chipped by rocks or road debris. Heavy-duty galvanized steel and stainless steel offer better corrosion resistance than standard carbon steel.
Stainless steel combines the strength of steel with excellent rust resistance and a bright finish that many truck owners prefer. It costs more than both aluminum and carbon steel, but it will outlast both in harsh conditions.
Style: Running Boards vs Nerf Bars vs Drop Steps
Running boards provide a wide, flat stepping surface that runs the length of the cab. They are the best choice for families, elderly passengers, and anyone who wants maximum footing area. Six-inch wide boards offer the most generous stepping platform.
Nerf bars are tubular bars that provide a narrower round or oval stepping surface. They look more aggressive and are popular on street trucks. The oval tube designs from Tyger Auto split the difference, offering a wider pad than round bars without the bulk of full running boards.
Drop steps hang lower than the mounting point, providing a lower stepping surface for lifted trucks. If your truck has a suspension lift or larger tires, drop steps make getting in and out dramatically easier.
Weight Capacity
Most quality running boards support 450 to 500 pounds per side. That is more than enough for any single passenger. If you regularly haul heavy gear onto your roof rack or if you have larger passengers, look for boards rated at the full 500-pound mark.
Installation: Drilling vs No-Drill
Every product on our list offers no-drill installation for their specified vehicles, which is a major advantage. No-drill means the boards bolt directly to existing factory mounting points on your truck frame. Installation typically takes 30-60 minutes with basic hand tools.
Some older truck models may require minor drilling for certain board designs. Always check the installation requirements for your specific year and model. If drilling is required, use a quality drill bit and apply rust inhibitor to any newly drilled holes.
Price Range
Truck side steps range from roughly $140 to $265 for fixed running boards and nerf bars. Budget options under $150 typically use aluminum or basic powder-coated steel. Mid-range boards from $150 to $200 offer galvanized or stainless steel construction with better warranties.
Premium options above $200 include features like wider steps, dual-tubular designs, and longer warranties. Power retractable running boards, which deploy automatically when doors open, cost $1,000 or more and represent the top of the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose the right truck side step?
Start by confirming your exact truck model, year, and cab configuration, since running boards are vehicle-specific. Then decide on material (aluminum for rust resistance, steel for strength, stainless for both), style (wide boards for comfort, nerf bars for looks, drop steps for lifted trucks), and weight capacity (450-500 lbs is standard). Finally, verify the installation method and check that no drilling is required for your model.
What are the best side steps for lifted trucks?
Drop-down steps are the best choice for lifted trucks because they provide a lower stepping surface that makes entry and exit easier. Products like the SMANOW running boards with a 4.7-inch drop are specifically designed for this purpose. For very tall lifts, consider individual hoop steps or power retractable steps that extend to a lower position.
Which is better, aluminum or stainless steel running boards?
Aluminum is lighter and will never rust, making it ideal for trucks in snowy or coastal climates. Stainless steel is heavier but offers similar corrosion resistance with a polished finish and higher strength. Carbon steel is the most affordable option but is more prone to rust over time if the coating gets damaged. For most daily drivers, aluminum offers the best balance of weight, durability, and value.
How much do side steps cost for a truck?
Fixed running boards and nerf bars typically cost between $140 and $265 depending on material, width, and brand. Budget aluminum boards start around $140, mid-range galvanized or stainless steel options run $150 to $200, and premium wide boards with extended warranties cost $200 to $265. Power retractable running boards are the most expensive option at $1,000 or more.
Do side steps affect ground clearance?
Yes, side steps reduce your effective ground clearance by a few inches since they mount below the rocker panel. Most running boards sit 9 to 13 inches from the ground on stock trucks. If you do serious off-roading, look for boards that tuck close to the body or consider rock sliders that double as steps while protecting against trail damage.
Conclusion
Finding the best truck side steps in 2026 means matching the right product to your truck model and your daily needs. For Silverado and Sierra owners, the Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider earns our editor’s choice with a 4.8-star rating and proven durability. Ram drivers get an equally strong option with the Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider for Ram 1500, while Ford F-150 owners get the best value with the AUTOSAVER88 aluminum boards.
The COMNOVA 6 inch boards stand out as the best overall value with their 6-inch wide step and 8-bracket system. For rust-proof performance, the Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser aluminum boards and the COMNOVA stainless steel option deliver long-term peace of mind. Whatever your truck and budget, this list has a proven option that thousands of owners have already trusted.