Most truck owners take great care in equipping their pickups with all the essential accessories needed to provide the most in durability, functionality, and style. Common on the list of must-have items are pieces such as tonneau covers to protect and secure valuables, racks and carriers to make transporting bulky, large cargo easy, and automotive lights to increase visibility and add extra flare. In addition to these accessories, owners of lifted trucks know that steps are high atop the list of necessary items, as they make traveling for the whole family or crew much more comfortable.
There are a number of obvious benefits to outfitting your lifted truck with steps. For one, they make getting in and out of your vehicle a significantly easier and safer process. Attempting to get into or out of a lifted truck without the assistance of steps can put a serious strain on your back and knees, plus they provide a much needed boost for shorter drivers or the younger passengers that might be traveling with you. In addition to upping the functionality of your vehicle, many styles of steps for lifted trucks have the added bonus of blocking rock and debris kicked up by the wheels from hitting side panels and doors, causing unsightly scrapes, scratches, and dings. Also, many truck owners find the look of steps for lifted trucks appealing, noting they offer a rugged, unique style.
With so many different types of steps available on the market today, it can be a difficult task to determine which are the best truck steps. Below we examine the most popular steps for lifted trucks trusted by owners across the country.
Running Boards. Running boards are a common choice when it comes to steps for lifted trucks and can be spotted on a wide range of vehicles out on the road today. Running boards for lifted trucks are affixed to either one or both sides of the vehicle, attached to the bottom of the truck. Running boards provide a long, flat surface, and are available in a variety of widths depending on the owner’s preference. For a more secure step, consider purchasing a wider running board that allows more coverage of the surface area of your foot. Additionally, most truck running boards are designed with a textured surface to minimize the risk of slipping, even in wet conditions.
The majority of running boards for lifted trucks are constructed from heavy duty and incredibly sturdy materials such as aluminum, molded ABS, or steel, making them resistant to damage and able to hold a great deal of weight. Running boards can be customized to your liking, whether you prefer an eye-catching stainless steel finish or a sleek powder-coated black, so you won’t have to sacrifice the overall style of your truck for this important accessory.
Nerf Bars. Another popular choice of step bars for lifted trucks are nerf bars. A bit different in design from running boards, nerf bars are more round or oval in shape, as compared to the flat surface of a running board. Nerf bars are available in cab-length or wheel length options depending on the look you prefer for your vehicle. Most nerf bars are constructed from sturdy materials such as carbon steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. To ensure a non-slip grip when entering or exiting the cab of a lifted truck, nerf bars are outfitted with step pads crafted from rubber or plastic. The non-slip step pads are positioned beneath cab doors in just the right spot for a safe step up or down.
Fold Down Steps. Some truck owners want the added comfort and safety offered from steps, but do not like the look of running boards or nerf bars. Those who prefer this accessory only be visible when in use might consider selecting fold down steps for their vehicle. As the name indicates, fold down steps for lifted trucks fold down when need and retract out of view when not in use. Using a sensor on your vehicle’s door, the fold down step will automatically move in to place when the door is open.
Hoop Steps. Hoop steps are stylistically one of the more unique types of steps for lifted trucks. Hoops steps provide a single step beneath each door of the cab and are either mounted to a bar beneath the vehicle or directly onto the vehicle. Still as durable as most other types of steps for lifted trucks, hoop steps are constructed from aluminum or steel. They are also available in a range of finishes including stainless steel or powder coat. Hoop steps are a great option for lifted truck owners that prefer a more subtle and understated appearance for their steps, as they typically take up less space when compared to running boards or nerf bars.
Rock rails and sliders. The primary purpose of rock rails and sliders is not actually for use as a step. Instead, these products are designed to protect the underside of your vehicle from damage from rocks and debris, particularly in any off-road conditions. Rock rails and sliders do however have the option to add step surfaces for convenience. Rock rails and sliders are similar to running boards in shape and can have step pads affixed beneath the truck’s doors.
At Radco, we understand that finding all the right accessories you need for your pickup can be an overwhelming task. For this reason, we’ve curated an unmatched selection of top quality pick up accessories from the most trusted brands in the industry. From truck step bars and boards to hoop steps and fold-down steps, we’ve got you covered.
Browse our collection of steps for lifted trucks today to find the perfect fit your vehicle so you can spend more time out on the road enjoying what matters most. As always, our knowledgeable staff are standing by to answer any questions you might have about our steps for lifted trucks, whether you’re curious about available finishes, weight-bearing capacities, durability, and more.