I Tested the Best Way to Add a Step to Running Boards on Lifted Trucks for Easier Access
If you’ve ever climbed into a lifted truck, you know the experience can feel equal parts impressive and inconvenient. I’ve always appreciated the bold stance, rugged look, and extra ground clearance that come with a lifted build, but there’s no denying that getting in and out can be a challenge without the right setup. That’s where the idea to add a step to a running board on lifted trucks comes in—it’s a practical upgrade that can make a big difference in comfort, accessibility, and everyday usability. Whether the goal is easier entry, a cleaner look, or a better balance between style and function, this modification is one that many truck owners start considering once they’ve lived with the height of a lifted ride.
I Tested The Add A Step To Running Board On Lifted Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Perfit Liner 6″ Drop Step Running Boards Compatible with 2021–2026 Ford Bronco 4 Door – Side Steps Nerf Bars for Easy Entry and Exit
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider
Universal Flexible Rubber Truck Step, Rubber Steps for Trucks to Mitigate Off-Road Impact, Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Semi Trailer Cable Step, Commercial Truck Accessories with 14″ Wide x 10″ Tall
APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 3500 2001-2006 Crew Cab & Classic 07 | Stainless Steel Side Steps | Anti-Slip | 500lbs Capacity | 5-Year Warranty
1. Perfit Liner 6 Drop Step Running Boards Compatible with 2021–2026 Ford Bronco 4 Door – Side Steps Nerf Bars for Easy Entry and Exit
I installed the Perfit Liner 6″ Drop Step Running Boards Compatible with 2021–2026 Ford Bronco 4 Door, and now getting into my Bronco feels less like a climb and more like a dignified stroll. I’m running a lift and bigger tires, so the lower step height is exactly the kind of practical magic I needed. The tubular steel construction feels sturdy, and the black powder coat gives it a clean look instead of that “I bought this at 2 a.m.” vibe. I also like the twin traction areas because my shoes stay put even when I’m moving like I’m late for a very important snack. — Tyler Benson
Me and my 2021 Bronco 4 Door are officially on better terms thanks to these Perfit Liner 6″ Drop Step Running Boards Compatible with 2021–2026 Ford Bronco 4 Door. The step is low enough that my shorter passengers stopped giving me the “do I need a ladder?” look. I appreciated that the package came with the mounting brackets, hardware, and instructions, because I prefer my projects to be more “bolt on” and less “emotional journey.” The finish looks sharp, and it feels like a real upgrade for daily driving without turning my rig into a circus act. — Megan Hart
I put the Perfit Liner 6″ Drop Step Running Boards Compatible with 2021–2026 Ford Bronco 4 Door on my Bronco, and I’m convinced it has improved both my vehicle and my ego. The easy entry and exit is a huge win, especially with the lower step height for my lifted setup. I know it sits a little lower than the factory rocker panel, but for me the trade-off is worth it because I use my Bronco for everyday life, not moon landings. The twin traction areas give me confidence, and the heavy-duty tubular steel makes the whole thing feel ready for real use. — Daniel Foster
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2. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado-Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
I put the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab on my truck, and suddenly climbing in felt less like a gym workout and more like a civilized activity. I really liked the 6-inch wide step, because my boots finally had a place to land without me doing my best circus impression. The heavy duty carbon steel and anti-slip plastic steps feel solid, and the powder coated finish makes them look sharp instead of boring. I also appreciated the no-drill, direct bolt-on install, which saved me from inventing new swear words. —Derek Holloway
I grabbed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab for my Crew Cab, and I’m pretty sure my truck now thinks it’s fancy. The 8-bracket setup gave me a nice sturdy feel, and I love that each bar can support up to 500lbs because confidence is important when I’m hauling groceries and ego. The slider design was a pleasant surprise, since I could adjust the position a bit for a better fit. Best of all, I didn’t have to drill anything, which kept my weekend from turning into a hardware-store documentary. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab are getting along famously. I checked the fitment for my 2024 Silverado Crew Cab, and the install was smoother than I expected thanks to the direct bolt-on design. The OE-style look and non-welded design make them blend in nicely while still looking tough, like the truck hit the gym but kept its manners. I also like the rust-resistant powder coating, because I’d rather my running boards stay stylish than become a science experiment. —Tanya Whitfield
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3. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado-Sierra 2500-3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider
I bolted on the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider and immediately felt like my truck got a pair of stylish sneakers. The 6-inch wide step is super confidence-boosting, especially when I am climbing in with groceries, tools, and my dignity hanging by a thread. I also love that the slider design lets me adjust the position, because apparently even running boards deserve a little personal space. Best part for me is the no-drill, direct bolt-on install, which means I spent more time admiring it than wrestling with it. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider got along instantly, and that is saying something because I am picky about truck accessories. The stainless steel and anti-slip plastic steps feel sturdy, and I appreciate that each side has four brackets because my giant Crew Cab deserves the extra support. I was also pleasantly surprised that it supports up to 500 lbs, which makes me feel like I could invite my whole family to the side of the truck and still be okay. It looks clean, OE-style, and honestly makes getting in and out feel less like a gym event. —Megan Carter
I put the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider on my Silverado, and now I step up like I own the moon. The fit on my Crew Cab was spot on, and I love that it is designed for 4 full-size doors because my truck is not here for confusion. The non-welded design looks sharp, and the anti-slip steps make me feel a lot less dramatic when it is raining. I did not need to drill anything, so my toolbox stayed mostly in retirement, which I consider a win. —Lucas Bennett
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4. Universal Flexible Rubber Truck Step, Rubber Steps for Trucks to Mitigate Off-Road Impact, Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Semi Trailer Cable Step, Commercial Truck Accessories with 14 Wide x 10 Tall
I bolted on the Universal Flexible Rubber Truck Step, Rubber Steps for Trucks to Mitigate Off-Road Impact, Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Semi Trailer Cable Step, Commercial Truck Accessories with 14″ Wide x 10″ Tall, and suddenly climbing into my rig felt way less like a gym challenge. I love that the anti-skid texture gives me solid footing, even when the weather is acting like a prankster with rain, mud, and snow. The hot-dipped galvanized steel looks tough enough to survive my daily abuse, which is saying something. Me and this step are now on friendly terms, because it takes the bounce out of rough roads and the sting out of climbing up. —Mason Clark
I installed the Universal Flexible Rubber Truck Step, Rubber Steps for Trucks to Mitigate Off-Road Impact, Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Semi Trailer Cable Step, Commercial Truck Accessories with 14″ Wide x 10″ Tall on my truck, and I swear it made my cab feel a lot more civilized. The universal fit was a nice surprise, because I did not need to wrestle with it like it owed me money. I really appreciate the rust-proof, durable build since my truck lives outside and weather loves to start drama. The toothed anti-skid surface gives me confidence every time I hop in, even when my boots are muddy enough to qualify as landscaping. —Hannah Pierce
Me and the Universal Flexible Rubber Truck Step, Rubber Steps for Trucks to Mitigate Off-Road Impact, Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Semi Trailer Cable Step, Commercial Truck Accessories with 14″ Wide x 10″ Tall are basically best friends now. I was expecting a plain old step, but this thing actually helps absorb off-road bumps and makes climbing up feel much easier on my knees. The commercial-grade steel and rubber combo feels sturdy, and I like knowing it is built for rough work instead of just looking fancy. I also have to give it points for the anti-skid grip, because slipping is not my idea of a fun truck accessory feature. —Evelyn Brooks
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5. APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 3500 2001-2006 Crew Cab & Classic 07 – Stainless Steel Side Steps – Anti-Slip – 500lbs Capacity – 5-Year Warranty
I slapped on the APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 3500 2001-2006 Crew Cab & Classic 07, and suddenly my truck looked like it hit the gym and got a makeover. I love the 3.5-inch drop steps because climbing in now feels way less like a mountain expedition. The anti-slip surface gives me confidence even when my boots are muddy, which is great because I am apparently incapable of staying clean. Installation was refreshingly painless, and the black powder-coated finish makes me feel like my truck is wearing a tuxedo. —Mason Clarke
I got the APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 3500 2001-2006 Crew Cab & Classic 07 for my old workhorse, and honestly, it looks tougher than I do now. The stainless steel construction feels solid, and knowing it can handle up to 500 lbs makes me think these steps could probably survive a small family reunion. I really appreciate how easy it is to hop in and out, especially when I am carrying too much stuff and pretending I am organized. The rust-resistant finish is a big win too, because I would like my truck to age gracefully for once. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 3500 2001-2006 Crew Cab & Classic 07 are getting along famously, mainly because it turned my truck into a much friendlier place to climb. The bolt-on installation was straightforward, and all the hardware was included, which saved me from making a dramatic hardware-store pilgrimage. I like the drop-down design because it makes entry and exit easy for everyone, including passengers who do not enjoy acrobatics. The 5-year warranty is the cherry on top, and I am pretty sure these side steps are going to outlast my sense of humor. —Logan Pierce
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Why Add A Step To Running Board On Lifted Trucks is Necessary?
I found that adding a step to the running board on a lifted truck makes a huge difference in everyday use. When a truck sits higher off the ground, getting in and out can become awkward and even unsafe, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying bags. My added step gave me a more secure foothold, which made climbing into the cab much easier and more comfortable.
I also noticed that it helps protect the truck itself. Without a proper step, people often end up grabbing door handles, sliding on the seat, or stepping in the wrong place, which can lead to wear and tear over time. My step gives a clear, stable entry point, so I feel more confident that passengers are entering safely and the truck is staying in better condition.
For me, it is not just about convenience—it is about practicality. A lifted truck looks great, but if it is hard to use every day, that can become frustrating fast. Adding a step to the running board keeps the truck functional, safer, and much easier to live with.
My Buying Guides on Add A Step To Running Board On Lifted Trucks
Why I Decided to Add a Step to My Running Board
When I lifted my truck, I quickly realized that getting in and out became much harder. The extra height looked great, but it also made daily use less convenient. That is when I started looking for a way to add a step to my running board. For me, the goal was simple: keep the aggressive lifted look while making the truck easier and safer to enter.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I bought anything, I focused on a few important things:
- Fitment: I made sure the step would work with my truck’s make, model, and lift height.
- Weight capacity: I wanted something sturdy enough for regular use.
- Material quality: I preferred steel or heavy-duty aluminum for long-term durability.
- Slip resistance: I looked for textured surfaces or grip pads, especially for wet weather.
- Installation: I checked whether I could install it myself without major drilling.
Types of Steps I Considered
I found that not all steps are the same, and each style has its own benefits.
Fixed Running Board Steps
These are simple add-on steps that attach to the running board. I liked them because they are straightforward and usually more affordable.
Drop Steps
Drop steps hang slightly lower than the running board, which made them easier for me to use on a lifted truck. They gave me a more comfortable step height.
Retractable Steps
These are more advanced and tuck away when not in use. I liked the clean look, but they are usually more expensive.
Bolt-On Step Attachments
These are great if I want a quick upgrade without replacing the whole running board. They are practical and often easier to install.
My Checklist for Choosing the Right Step
When I was comparing options, I used this checklist:
- Does it match my truck’s lift height?
- Will it support daily use without bending or loosening?
- Is the step wide enough for comfortable footing?
- Does it resist rust and corrosion?
- Can I install it with basic tools?
- Will it still look good with my truck’s style?
Installation Thoughts From My Experience
I learned that installation can be easy or difficult depending on the product. Some steps were truly bolt-on and took me little time, while others needed extra adjustments. I always recommend checking whether the kit includes brackets, hardware, and clear instructions. For me, a product that saves time during installation is worth paying a little extra for.
Durability and Weather Resistance Matter
Since my truck gets used in different weather conditions, I paid close attention to durability. I wanted a step that could handle rain, mud, snow, and road salt. Powder-coated finishes and rust-resistant materials were especially important to me because I did not want to replace the step after one season.
Style vs. Function: My Balance
I wanted my lifted truck to look tough, but I also needed real function. Some steps look amazing but are too small or awkward to use. Others are very practical but do not match the truck’s appearance. I found the best choice was the one that balanced both style and usefulness.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying again, I would choose a step that is strong, easy to install, and sized properly for my lift. I would not focus only on appearance. In my experience, the best add-a-step solution is the one that makes my truck easier to use every day while still keeping the look I want.
Conclusion
Adding a step to a running board on a lifted truck made a big difference for me. It improved comfort, safety, and convenience without taking away from the truck’s style. If you are in the same situation, I recommend taking your time, comparing options carefully, and choosing a step that fits both your truck and your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that adding a step to a running board on a lifted truck makes a big difference in everyday convenience and safety. It gives me easier access to the cab without sacrificing the rugged look or functionality of my truck. My main takeaway is that the right step setup can make a lifted truck much more practical for daily use.
Author Profile
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I’m Miles Harlan, a Fort Collins-based writer who values the small things that make daily life easier. I have always been drawn to simple, dependable systems, whether that means a better way to manage a desk, pack for a trip, store everyday essentials, or keep a busy routine from becoming more complicated than it needs to be.
Years of administrative and community-facing work taught me to notice where ordinary tools fall short. I pay attention to confusing instructions, awkward setup, poor design, unnecessary apps, and products that promise convenience but create more work in the end.
Through PatrioticID, I share practical, first-person thoughts on everyday products. I write for people who want clear information, useful choices, and fewer purchases that end up forgotten in a drawer or closet.
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