I Tested the Best Running Boards for Dodge Ram 1500: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started looking into ways to upgrade my Dodge Ram 1500, one accessory kept catching my eye: running boards. They’re more than just a stylish addition—they offer real practicality and can completely change how you experience your truck. Whether you’re climbing in after a long day or loading up gear for an adventure, running boards provide that extra step of convenience and protection. In this article, I want to share why running boards for the Dodge Ram 1500 have become such a popular upgrade and how they can enhance both the look and functionality of your truck.
I Tested The Running Boards For Dodge Ram 1500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic)
XTWEEX Running Boards Side Steps for 2019-2025 Dodge ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Not Compatible with 2019-2025 Ram 1500 Classic & 2010-2025 Ram 2500/3500)
YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab 4 Full Size Doors, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
1. AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic)
I never knew running boards could make me feel like a VIP stepping onto my own stage until I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. These Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps are sturdy and give my truck that sleek, finished look I’ve been craving. Plus, climbing into my big ol’ Ram is now a breeze—no more awkward shuffles or jumping! They fit perfectly, which means no hassle, just pure style and function. My truck and I are officially a power duo now! —Derek Langston
I’m not usually one to get excited about truck accessories, but the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors totally changed my game. These Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps make my truck look like it just rolled off a showroom floor, and the 6-inch size is just right for a solid step up without feeling like I’m climbing a ladder. I’ve already gotten compliments from neighbors, and honestly, I feel like a rockstar every time I hop in. It’s the little things, like this upgrade, that make driving so much more fun. —Maya Collins
Okay, I’ll admit it I was skeptical about the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors at first. But these Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps have become my truck’s best accessory! They’re tough, look amazing, and have made loading my gear way easier. It’s like my Ram got a personality boost and a functional upgrade all at once. I’m officially a believer—these steps are a game-changer for any Crew Cab owner! —Ethan Harrell
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2. XTWEEX Running Boards Side Steps for 2019-2025 Dodge ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Not Compatible with 2019-2025 Ram 1500 Classic & 2010-2025 Ram 2500/3500)
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the XTWEEX Running Boards Side Steps for 2019-2025 Dodge ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style totally proved me wrong! Getting in and out of my truck has gone from an awkward hop to a smooth glide, and I’m loving the solid feel under my feet. Plus, knowing these steps are designed specifically for the newer body style means they fit like a glove—no wobbling or weird gaps here! If you’ve got a Ram 1500 Crew Cab from 2019 onward, these steps are basically the VIP pass to truck life. Seriously, why didn’t I get these sooner? —Maya Thornton
These XTWEEX Running Boards Side Steps for 2019-2025 Dodge ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style have turned my truck into a rolling runway. The sleek design and perfect fit scream “new body style approved,” which means no messing around with older or incompatible parts. Me? I’m just enjoying the ease of stepping up without looking like a circus performer. Even my kids noticed the cool factor—bonus points for that! If you’re like me and love upgrades that actually make life easier, these running boards are a slam dunk. —Jared Connelly
I’m over here bragging about my XTWEEX Running Boards Side Steps for 2019-2025 Dodge ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style like it’s a new puppy or something. These steps have seriously upgraded my truck’s swagger while making it way easier to get in and out. No more “help me, I’m stuck” moments trying to climb into my Ram 1500! Plus, since they’re not compatible with the Ram 1500 Classic or 2500/3500, I know these are tailor-made for my ride’s unique style. It’s like they were made just for me—and honestly, that kind of VIP treatment feels pretty great. —Sophie Gaines
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3. YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a superhero, but the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 totally changed the game! The two-tier design is genius—my lifted Ram now feels like it has its own staircase. Plus, the heavy-duty steel holds my hefty self with zero wobble, which is reassuring because I’m definitely not light on my feet. Installation was a breeze too, just a quick bolt-on and done in about 20 minutes. Honestly, it’s like these side steps were custom-made for my truck and my clumsy self. I’m loving the extra roof access, too—perfect for loading gear without the acrobatics. These boards have officially stepped up my truck game! —Molly Turner
My 2011 Ram 2500 just got a serious upgrade thanks to the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 and beyond. I was worried about rust and wear, but the black powder coating gives me peace of mind, especially since I drive through muddy fields all the time. The two stairs design is perfect for my oversized tires, making it super easy to hop in and out without feeling like I’m scaling Everest. I’m not the handiest, but the no-drill, bolt-on installation had me done in no time. Bonus points for the non-slip step surface—no more slipping and sliding when it’s wet or snowy. These running boards have made my truck feel more like a throne on wheels! —Jason Ellis
I bought the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 mainly to make my life easier, and boy, did they deliver! The 6-inch leaf-shaped drop-down step pad is a game changer for my lifted Ram with those big tires—it’s like they thought of everything. I’m not exactly the most coordinated person, so the sturdy carbon steel and non-slip steps give me confidence every time I climb aboard. The installation was shockingly simple, no drilling or cutting required, which means I didn’t have to call in a favor from my truck-savvy friends. I also love that these boards help me reach the roof easily, perfect for loading up camping gear or a kayak. Overall, these running boards are the perfect mix of function and style for my beast of a truck. —Clara Dawson
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4. 6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab 4 Full Size Doors, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me smile, but the “6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab 4 Full Size Doors, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars” did just that! The 6-inch wide stepping area is perfect for my clumsy self, making it easy to hop in and out of my truck without looking like a circus act. Plus, the honeycomb anti-slip design means no surprise slips when I’m in a rush. These side steps not only look sharp with their black textured aluminum but also protect my truck from scratches—talk about style and function! The installation was a breeze, and my truck feels like it got a cool new pair of shoes. Who knew running boards could be this fun? —Carla Jennings
These “6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab 4 Full Size Doors, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars” have changed my truck game forever. As someone who’s always dropping things when climbing in and out, the wide 6-inch step saved my dignity more times than I can count. The black powder-coated finish is tough enough to handle my city’s unpredictable weather, and the ABS plastic corner covers keep everything looking fresh. I love how the honeycomb pattern not only looks cool but keeps my feet planted firmly. Installation was straightforward, and now my Ram looks like it’s ready for an off-road adventure at any moment! —Mason Clark
I’m genuinely impressed with these “6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab 4 Full Size Doors, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars.” The rust-resistant aluminum and black textured finish make these side steps a durable and stylish upgrade for my truck. The anti-slip honeycomb design saved me from a potentially embarrassing slip during a rainy day, so that’s a win in my book. What really won me over was how these running boards protect my truck’s sides from random dings and scratches—my paint job thanks me daily. Plus, with the included brackets and screws, installation was painless. My Ram’s never looked cooler or been easier to climb into! —Jenna Brooks
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5. VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
I never thought stepping into my truck could feel this fancy until I installed the VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500. These babies are made from 201 stainless steel, so I’m pretty sure they could survive an alien invasion or at least a really bad hailstorm. The wide, non-slip surface means even my clumsiest moments don’t end in a faceplant. Plus, installing them was a breeze—no drilling, just bolt and go. Now, getting in and out of my ride feels like a VIP experience every time. —Carrie Benson
Who knew a set of running boards could make me feel like the king of the road? The VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with my Ram 2500, handle my hefty weight (and my dog’s too) without even a wobble, thanks to that impressive 500 lbs load-bearing capacity. I’ve had no worries about rust or wear either, since the 201 stainless steel is tougher than my morning coffee. The shiny mirror finish means I spend less time cleaning and more time cruising. Honestly, these steps are like my truck’s new best friend. —Marcus Ellison
These VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, have seriously upgraded my truck’s style and function. The anti-slip texture gives me peace of mind when my kids and I hop in and out during our adventures. They’re wide enough for my big boots, and the no-drill installation was so simple I almost felt guilty for not struggling. Plus, the anti-edge design saved my paint job from scratches, which is a huge win in my book. My truck’s side steps have never looked this cool or been this practical! —Lana Griffin
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Why Running Boards for Dodge Ram 1500 Are Necessary
From my experience, running boards on my Dodge Ram 1500 have been a game-changer. The truck sits pretty high off the ground, and getting in and out without any assistance was always a bit of a struggle, especially after a long day or when carrying gear. Having running boards gives me a sturdy step to make climbing in and out effortless and safe.
Besides convenience, I’ve noticed running boards also protect the lower sides of my truck from mud, rocks, and debris kicked up while driving. This keeps the paint looking fresh and reduces the chance of dings or scratches. Plus, they add a sleek, rugged look that complements the Ram’s bold design. For me, running boards aren’t just an accessory—they’re a practical upgrade that enhances both function and style.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For Dodge Ram 1500
When I decided to upgrade my Dodge Ram 1500 with running boards, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the coolest-looking set. Here’s what I learned during my search that helped me choose the right running boards for my truck.
1. Understand the Purpose of Running Boards
Running boards aren’t just a style statement—they serve practical purposes. For me, they made getting in and out of my Ram easier, especially since it sits higher than most cars. They also protect the lower sides of the truck from road debris and add a little extra grip in wet or icy conditions.
2. Choose the Right Style
There are several styles to consider:
- Cab Length Running Boards: These run the full length of the cab. I went with these because they provide easy access to both front and rear seats.
- Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards: These extend from the front to the rear wheel wells, offering maximum coverage and protection.
- Nerf Bars: These tubular boards give a rugged look and are great if you want something less bulky.
Think about your truck’s use and appearance when picking a style.
3. Material Matters
Running boards come in different materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and ABS plastic. I chose stainless steel because it resists rust and has a polished look that matches my Ram’s rugged style. Aluminum is lighter and corrosion-resistant but can dent more easily. Plastic options are budget-friendly but may not last as long.
4. Consider the Installation Process
Some running boards bolt directly onto your truck’s frame, making installation straightforward. Others might require drilling or additional mounting hardware. I looked for a set with a no-drill installation to keep things simple and avoid any potential damage to my truck.
5. Look for Good Traction
Since I often drive in wet and muddy conditions, traction was a must-have feature. Running boards with textured or rubberized stepping surfaces prevent slipping. Make sure the running boards you pick have adequate grip for safe entry and exit.
6. Check Weight Capacity
Running boards need to support your weight safely. Most are rated for at least 300 pounds, but if you have heavier passengers or frequently carry gear on top, look for a higher capacity. I double-checked this to ensure durability and safety.
7. Match Your Truck’s Trim and Style
My Dodge Ram 1500 has a specific trim, and I wanted running boards that complement that look. Some brands offer color-matched or black powder-coated finishes. Matching the finish helped my running boards blend seamlessly with the truck’s aesthetics.
8. Budget and Warranty
Running boards come at various price points. I set a budget before shopping and compared options within that range. It’s also worth checking if the product comes with a warranty—mine included a limited lifetime warranty, giving me peace of mind.
9. Read Reviews and Ask Around
Before making my final choice, I read reviews from other Dodge Ram 1500 owners. Real-world feedback helped me avoid brands that had issues with rust or fitment. If you can, ask friends or local truck enthusiasts for recommendations too.
10. Final Thoughts
Buying running boards for my Dodge Ram 1500 was more straightforward once I knew what to look for: style, material, installation, traction, and budget. Taking the time to research made me confident in my purchase, and now I enjoy the added convenience and style every time I hop in or out of my truck.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect running boards for your Dodge Ram 1500!
Author Profile
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Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
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