In a country where 92% of households own at least one vehicle, customizing your car goes beyond functionality—it’s a personal style declaration. The choice between side steps or running boards is more than a practical consideration; it’s about making your vehicle truly fit your lifestyle.
Both accessories serve a fundamental purpose: to facilitate easier access to your vehicle. However, they address different looks and practical requirements. In this article, we’ll examine the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you determine which suits your vehicle’s design and your everyday needs better.
Understanding Vehicle-Specific Needs
Each vehicle design demands specific accessories that complement its structure and usage. Take the Chevrolet truck, for example. Owners often find that side steps for Chevy trucks provide easier access for frequent entry and exit, especially in scenarios that don’t require the additional coverage that running boards offer.
This makes side steps a practical choice for those who prioritize convenience without the need for wider stepping surfaces that running boards provide. Side steps also tend to integrate smoothly with vehicle lines, preserving the rugged aesthetic valued by many truck enthusiasts. They are also less prominent, proving to be a good choice for those who value both function and preserving the vehicle’s original appearance.
Assessing Your Vehicle’s Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of your vehicle is crucial in deciding between side steps and running boards. SUVs and trucks with higher clearances fit well with side steps due to their compact design that doesn’t stick out much from the vehicle’s side.
This keeps the vehicle from feeling too bulky and maintains a cleaner line. Running boards are especially useful for vehicles with lower ground clearance, offering a solid, level step that runs along the vehicle’s side, simplifying entry and exit.
Evaluating Usability and Accessibility
Both side steps and running boards primarily serve to make getting into your vehicle easier. If kids, elderly people, or others who might need extra help are frequent passengers, running boards are likely a more suitable choice. They offer a wider stepping surface that provides extra stability. Conversely, if the typical users are adults who do not require additional stepping space, side steps might be more appropriate.
They provide adequate support and do not alter the vehicle’s original silhouette as much as running boards. Side steps excel in environments where sleek design and efficient functionality converge, offering just enough help without excess. On the other hand, running boards serve best in providing a secure, steady platform for those needing the utmost confidence when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Style and Aesthetics
The decision between side steps and running boards might also hinge on your style choice. If you prefer a rugged, athletic appearance, side steps could be the better fit. They’re usually less visible and match well with the tough look of off-road vehicles.
Conversely, running boards give a smooth, unified appearance that could complement the sleek lines of modern SUVs and trucks. They’re typically broader and meld neatly into the vehicle’s lower body, giving it a more grounded, elongated look.
Installation and Compatibility
Installing side steps or running boards should always be done with consideration to the specific model of your vehicle. Side steps are generally less intrusive to install and might not require as much modification to the vehicle’s body as running boards.
However, the simplicity or complexity of installation can vary, depending on the brand and model of the accessory. Running boards might require more extensive installation but usually offer a more integrated look once in place. Always check compatibility with your vehicle model and consider professional installation to ensure safety and durability.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintaining your side steps or running boards is crucial to ensure they remain safe and visually appealing. Side steps usually require less maintenance due to their simpler design and smaller surface area, which attracts less road debris and dirt.
Running boards offer a larger stepping surface and might blend better aesthetically, but they tend to gather more grime and need frequent cleaning, especially in wet or snowy environments. Regardless of your choice, ensure they’re built from robust, long-lasting materials to cope with the elements and regular usage.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between side steps and running boards, think about how each choice fits with your vehicle’s look, your personal taste, and what you need for you and your passengers. Consider the height of your vehicle, who will use them, and how difficult they are to install.
Taking these factors into account will help you choose an option that boosts your vehicle’s utility and complements its design. If you’re unsure, reach out to a professional or stop by a local vehicle accessories shop for tailored suggestions based on your needs and type of vehicle.
