What’s the Difference between Side Steps and Running Boards ?

Core Definition: What are Side Steps and Running Boards?

Pickup truck Side steps are typically narrow, bar-shaped running boards installed on both sides of a vehicle. Their primary function is to facilitate passenger entry and exit, particularly useful for SUVs and pickup trucks with higher ground clearance. Modern side step designs extend beyond mere practicality, serving as significant aesthetic enhancements to the vehicle’s appearance.

Running boards are wider than side steps, typically extending along the length of the vehicle from front to rear doors. They provide convenient access for entering and exiting the vehicle, and also serve as an additional loading platform (for example, cleaning shoes or temporarily placing items). In the North American market, running boards are frequently used on work trucks, emphasizing durability and multi-functionality.

Functionality Comparison: Which One Best Suits Your Needs?

Ease of vehicle entry and exit
Power-Assisted Side Steps: Electric side steps automatically deploy upon door opening, significantly reducing step height (130-180 mm), particularly beneficial for the elderly, children, or passengers of shorter stature. While fixed side steps are less expensive, they offer limited height reduction and are prone to soiling trousers in wet weather.

Running Boards: Wide running boards offer a more stable foothold, suitable for users who frequently load and unload cargo or wear work boots. However, their fixed design may affect vehicle passage.

Vehicle Passability and Installation Impact
Electric Side Steps: These automatically retract when driving, without affecting ground clearance or vehicle width. They are ideal for navigating narrow city streets or off-road conditions.

Fixed running boards permanently increase vehicle width (approximately 2-4 inches), potentially causing inconvenience in crowded parking lots or when meeting vehicles on narrow roads. Installation of some products requires drilling, which may affect the vehicle’s original structure.

Exterior and Style Matching
Side Steps: The modern rotating electric side steps project a sense of advanced technology. When retracted, they integrate seamlessly with the vehicle body, enhancing the overall vehicle grade.

Running Boards: The rugged industrial design is more suitable for utilitarian pickup trucks (such as the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado), emphasizing a practical style.

Technical Differences: Material, Structure, and Durability

Material Selection

• Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, suitable for electric pedals and high-end fixed pedals.

• Steel (Q235A): Lower cost, higher load-bearing capacity, but requires surface treatment to prevent rust.

• Composite material (PP+aluminum alloy): An emerging solution offering a 30% weight reduction and noise dampening, but at a higher cost.

Electric vs. Fixed Systems
Electrically powered footrests: While reliant on motors and control systems, resulting in a slightly higher failure rate compared to purely mechanical structures, modern products have significantly improved their water resistance and durability.

Fixed pedals: Require virtually no maintenance; however, after prolonged use, the bracket bolts may loosen and require periodic inspection (tightening is recommended every 250 miles).

Recommendation: Select Based on Vehicle Model and Usage Scenario

Recommended Selection Scenarios for Side Steps:

• City SUVs/High-end Pickup Trucks (e.g., Toyota Tacoma, Honda Ridgeline)

• Emphasis on the vehicle’s technological aesthetic

• Frequent passenger occupancy by children or the elderly

• Original vehicle passability must be maintained

Recommended Use Cases for Running Boards:

• Commercial/work pickup trucks (such as Ford F-250, Dodge Ram)

• Additional running boards are required for vehicle maintenance or loading

Summary

The choice between side steps and running boards ultimately involves a comprehensive consideration of convenience, accessibility, and aesthetics. We recommend focusing on three key factors when making your decision: primary usage scenario, typical passenger demographics, and budget. Electric side steps are suitable for urban users seeking a technologically advanced experience, while traditional running boards are a pragmatic choice for work vehicles.