Running Boards or Nerf Bars? Making the Right Choice for Your Truck

When you're looking to add side steps to your truck or SUV, you'll probably end up choosing between running boards and nerf bars. Both help you climb into tall vehicles, but they look and work differently. Let's break down what makes each one special and help you figure out which one fits your needs better.

What Are Running Boards

Running boards are flat, wide platforms that run along your vehicle's side under the doors. They give you a convenient step to get in and out while also protecting your vehicle's sides.

Key Features of Running Boards

• Full-length coverage from front to back wheels

• Wider stepping surface (usually 5-7 inches) giving you more room for your feet

• Usually have a flat, non-slip surface so you don't slip when it's wet

• Come in aluminum, steel, or plastic materials

• Some have lights built in to help you see the step at night

Running boards are great if everyone in your family needs help getting in, especially kids or older folks who might struggle with tall vehicles.

What Are Nerf Bars?

Nerf bars are tube-shaped steps that only have stepping pads where your doors are, not all the way across. They started out as protection for off-road racing vehicles but now lots of people add them to their trucks for looks and function.

Key Features of Nerf Bars

• Round or oval tubes usually 3-4 inches thick

• Step pads only where your doors are

• Look more minimal and show more of your truck underneath

• Come in shiny steel, black, or chrome finishes

• Give your truck a more tough, off-road look

Nerf bars work well for people who want some help climbing in but still want their truck to look rugged and maintain good ground clearance.

How They Work for Getting In and Out

Ease of Use

Running boards are easier to use because:

• They're wider so you have more space for your feet

• The flat surface runs all along your truck

• They're great when you're carrying groceries or kids

Nerf bars are a bit more basic but effective:

• They give you a step just where you need it

• They're slightly smaller to step on

• They work fine for most adults

Protection for Your Vehicle

Both options help protect your truck, but in different ways:

Running boards:

• Block more road dirt and rocks from hitting your truck

• Can prevent door dings in parking lots

• Cover more of your truck's side panels

Nerf bars:

• Can take harder hits from rocks when off-roading

• Stop some debris from hitting your doors

• Don't cover as much but are often stronger

How They Look on Your Truck

How these steps look on your vehicle matters to most people.

Running Board Looks

Running boards give a more finished, clean look and work well for:

• Fancy SUVs and family vehicles

• People who want their truck to look more polished

• A look that seems like it came from the factory

Many nicer vehicles come with running boards already installed, or you can add them as an option when buying.

Nerf Bar Looks

Nerf bars have a more tough, adventurous style that appeals to:

• Off-road enthusiasts

• Truck owners who want to look more hardcore

• People who want to show off their truck's height

The tube design of nerf bars makes trucks look taller and more capable.

Installing Them on Your Vehicle

Running Board Installation

• Need more attachment points on your truck's frame

• Can usually hold more weight because they attach in more places

• Take a bit longer to install

• Usually come with hardware made specifically for your vehicle model

Nerf Bar Installation

• Attach to fewer spots on the frame

• Installation is typically more straightforward

• Most just bolt on without much fuss

• Many universal options fit popular truck models

Both usually use existing holes in your truck's frame, so you don't need to drill new holes in most cases.

How They Handle Different Weather

How these steps work in rain, snow, or mud matters if you live somewhere with bad weather:

Running Boards in Bad Weather

• The flat surface can collect snow and ice in winter

• Many have drain holes to let water run off

• Can be harder to clean mud off the flat surface

• Usually have grip patterns to prevent slipping when wet

Nerf Bars in Bad Weather

• Snow and water pass through the tube design more easily

• Step pads have good traction

• Less surface for mud to stick to

• Easier to spray clean after muddy trails

Price Differences

Prices vary based on materials, design, and brand:

Running Board Costs

• Fancy materials like aluminum or ones with lights cost more

• Electric ones that fold away when not in use are the most expensive

• Factory-style ones usually cost more than aftermarket options

• Typically cost $300-$800 for decent ones, with fancy models over $1,000

Nerf Bar Costs

• Stainless steel costs more than painted steel versions

• Length and thickness affect price

• Special finishes and features add to the cost

• Usually cost $200-$600 for standard options, with nice stainless ones up to $700

Making Your Choice

Your decision should be based on what you need, what truck you have, and what look you like.

Choose running boards if you:

• Have family who need an easier step up

• Want the biggest, most stable stepping surface

• Like a sleeker, more integrated look

• Want more protection for your truck's sides

Choose nerf bars if you:

• Want to keep your truck's ground clearance for off-roading

• Prefer a tougher, more distinct look

• Just need a basic step without a full platform

• Drive off-road where mud might collect on a flat surface

Many people base their choice on how they use their vehicle. Family-oriented drivers often pick running boards, while off-road enthusiasts or people with lifted trucks tend to prefer nerf bars.

Conclusion

Both running boards and nerf bars help you get in and out of tall vehicles. There's no "better" option for everyone—it depends on what you need, how you use your truck, and what style you like. Running boards are better for easy access and coverage, while nerf bars balance function with a rugged look while keeping more of your truck's original stance. Think about what matters most to you from this guide, and you'll make a choice that makes your vehicle both more useful and better looking.

FAQs

Do running boards lower ground clearance more than nerf bars?
Yes, running boards usually reduce ground clearance more than nerf bars because they're wider and sit lower on the vehicle.

Can I install these myself or do I need a professional?
Most nerf bars and basic running boards can be installed at home with regular tools, but electric running boards usually need professional installation.

Will adding steps void my vehicle warranty?
Generally no, properly installed steps won't void your warranty, but it's always smart to check with your dealer before adding anything to your vehicle.