A powerful engine, 4-wheel drive, high ground clearance and an elevated driving position are just some of the things that pickup trucks offer. This makes pickup trucks versatile vehicles since they can be used both for an off-road adventure in the wild or to cover long distances when going on a road trip. The appeal of a pickup truck is a unique one that screams aggressiveness and power. Because pickup trucks are so powerful they are great for towing even when off-roading.
But pickup trucks are not only made for ruggedness they can also be luxurious if that's something you're after. Owning a pickup truck is a thrill and a hassle because although they are fun to drive they also make it difficult to get in and out. This is where truck running boards come into play, an aftermarket solution that provides a stepping platform for you to get in and out of your pickup truck.
Types of Running Boards
Running Boards/ Bars
The most notable type of running board upgrade you can have are running bars or boards. If you want to provide a secure stepping platform for both you and your passengers at the back pickup truck running boards are the best solution. They extend from the back of the front tires to the front of the rear tires. This way you get full coverage for the undercarriage too as mud and stones will no longer be hitting it, as the running boards will be in the way.
Side Steps
A side step is a small stepping platform where you can put only one of your feet on it. Truck side steps are meant to be used when you want to make only one of your passengers, stepping in and out of your truck more convenient. Truck side steps are also easier to install since they are smaller than running bards/ boards but they are also the least protective of your undercarriage.
Power-Operated
If you want a sleek looking truck running boards that are not always on display you should go for retracting or also known as power-operated truck running boards. These need to be connected to your truck's battery in order to work and without it, they won't slide out when you open the door or unlock your truck. This option is the least affordable because of the added mechanism and more complex installation which make it more futuristic.
What to Consider when Buying Running Boards
Size
How big your running boards are can affect their weight. Bigger running boards are usually heavier but not always (more on that later). Smaller, lighter running boards are better when you want to avoid increasing fuel consumption and they are also easier to install because of how light they are. But light running boards usually have more fragile construction.
Material
The construction of running boards or rather the material it's made of matters a lot especially when it comes to longevity and strength. Metal running boards are preferred since they are both strong and long-lasting. The two most common metals running boards are made of are stainless steel and aluminium. There are also plastic running boards but you are better off having no running boards than plastic ones.
These are both corrosion-resistant materials with the former being heavier and the latter being more convenient. Aluminium running boards may not be as strong as stainless steel ones but they are easy to maintain. While stainless steel running boards need their anti-corrosive coating to be treated from time to time, aluminium ones only require you to hose them down.
Capacity
The weight capacity of a running board is well important too as it can make or break your running boards. The minim weight capacity of running boards is 130 kg but it's better to get one with a 220 kg weight capacity if you plan to bring your bigger mates on a night out. You don't want to see bent running boards the next morning.
Padding
Another feature you'll want to consider when searching for pickup truck running boards is the padding material. A running board is not going to be safe if it comes without some rubber padding. This layer allows for better traction and it makes stepping on the running boards a lot more comfortable. The grip a padded running board offers can be life-saving when it's pouring rain outside and you want to quickly hop into your truck. Even if your running boards aren't completely covered in padding material you're still better of than not having them padded at all.
Conclusion
Something as simple as a metal bar can make a big difference in a vehicle like a pickup truck. Remember running boards don't only make it more convenient to enter your vehicle, they also make your truck look a lot sportier. If you couple the right padding and construction material they can even help enhance the appeal of your truck.