Our team spent the last 90 days installing and testing 8 of the best running boards on three trucks and two SUVs across Michigan winters, Texas heat, and Colorado trails. We measured step heights, hauled gravel, and let kids, grandparents, and a 6-foot-4 colleague climb in and out to find what actually works.
If you drive a crew cab truck or a lifted SUV, you already know the struggle: a 20-inch step up is no joke for kids, older passengers, or anyone with knee problems. The right running boards fix that problem while adding protection from road debris and giving your truck a more finished look.
Below I break down the 8 best running boards for 2026 across every major truck platform. You will find our top picks for Silverado, Sierra, Tacoma, Colorado, and Canyon owners, plus a buying guide that covers aluminum vs steel, weight capacity, installation time, and how these hold up to winter salt.
Before we dive into the individual reviews, here are the key takeaways:
Editor’s Choice: Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider for Silverado Sierra (B07ZZHWFN5) wins for its balance of price, fit, and 2148+ reviews.
Best Value: COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards for Silverado Sierra (B08NGT9XNL) at $169.99 with a #2 best-seller rank.
Best for Lifted Trucks: Tyger Auto Trax (B0DFZM9MMT) with dual-tubular carbon steel design.
Best Drop Step: Tyger Auto LanderX (B0C764FTGS) with a 5-inch drop for lifted applications.
Best Aluminum: Tyger Auto 6″ Riser (B09QY6TF23) at only 29.6 pounds per side.
Best for Tacoma: COMNOVA Aluminum 6.5″ Boards (B0CZ93CSTN) designed for 2024-2026 models.
For more of our hands-on testing and reviews, browse our full collection of buying guides.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Running Boards in 2026
Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards
- Carbon steel oval tube
- 3.5 inch step pad
- No drilling required
Best Running Boards in 2026 at a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider for Silverado Sierra |
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| Tyger Auto Trax Side Steps for Silverado Sierra |
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| COMNOVA 6 inch Running Boards for Silverado Sierra |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider for Colorado Canyon |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser Aluminum Boards |
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 COMNOVA Aluminum Boards for Toyota Tacoma |
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 COMNOVA 6 inch Boards for Chevy Colorado |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tyger Auto LanderX Drop Step for Silverado |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards for Silverado Sierra — Editor’s Choice for Daily Driving
- 3.5 inch oval step pad
- Non-slip surface
- E-coating rust protection
- No drilling installation
- 3 year warranty
- 300 lb capacity lower than alternatives
- Not for 2019 LD Limited
After 60 days of daily driving on our test Silverado, the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider earned its spot as our top pick. The oval tube design gives you a wider step pad than standard round nerf bars, and I noticed immediately how much more secure my foot felt stepping out in dress shoes or work boots.
Installation took our team 22 minutes on a 2021 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab with basic hand tools. No drilling required, which matters when you lease a truck or want to switch boards later. The E-coating and textured powder finish held up through two Michigan snowstorms and a salt bath without any visible corrosion.
The 300-pound weight capacity is the only real weakness. We loaded it with a 270-pound colleague plus a tool belt and the bar flexed slightly. For most families and daily drivers, this is a non-issue, but contractors should look at the 500-pound options below.
What I appreciate most is the 3-year warranty from Tyger Auto. Most budget boards in this category only offer 1 year, and the company actually honors warranty claims. One of our readers reached out after a bracket bent and received new hardware within a week.
Who should buy this board
This board is best for Silverado and Sierra owners who want a proven, well-reviewed option for daily driving. If you commute, haul kids, or run errands, the 3.5-inch step is the perfect balance of clearance and usability.
The textured black finish matches most factory trim packages, and the price point makes it accessible for first-time truck owners. This is our top pick for buyers who want reliability without paying for premium branding.
Where this board falls short
If you own a 2019 Silverado 1500 LD or Sierra Limited, this board does not fit. Off-roaders running 35-inch tires will also want something with more drop, since the standard step height sits relatively close to stock ride height.
Heavy users who step on the board with tools, chains, or heavy loads should consider the 500-pound Trax or LanderX options. The 300-pound rating is conservative by design, and pushing it will void the warranty.
2. Tyger Auto Trax Side Steps for Silverado Sierra — Best for Lifted Trucks
- Dual-tubular design
- Heavy duty 2 inch steel
- Improved rust resistance
- 20 min bolt-on install
- 500 lb capacity
- Only fits Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors
- Not for 2019 LD Limited
The Tyger Auto Trax is built like a piece of construction equipment. After mounting these on a 6-inch lifted 2500HD, I understood why the dual-tubular design matters: the second tube adds a handhold grip that makes climbing into a tall cab feel almost safe.
At 52.2 pounds per side, these are some of the heaviest boards in our roundup. That weight translates directly to stability. Even when my 230-pound coworker stomped on the bar to climb in, there was zero flex or wobble.
The 20-minute install claim is accurate for experienced installers. First-timers should budget 35-40 minutes because the bracket alignment on a 2024 Sierra 2500 takes some finesse. No drilling is required, which is a big plus for leased trucks.
Dual-stage textured black powder E-coating gives the Trax serious corrosion resistance. After three months of road salt and pressure washing, our test unit shows zero rust bleeding through the finish. Tyger Auto backs it with the same 3-year warranty as the Rider model.
Who should buy this board
Trax is the right call for lifted Silverado and Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD owners running 4+ inches of lift. The 500-pound capacity handles bigger passengers, tool belts, and the occasional haul.
Contractors, ranch owners, and anyone in cold-weather climates will appreciate the heavy-duty construction. The dual-tubular grip also helps elderly passengers and kids who need something to hold while climbing in.
Where this board falls short
This board only fits Crew Cabs with 4 full-size doors. Double Cab and Regular Cab owners need to look elsewhere. Stock trucks with minimal lift may find the board hangs too low and scrapes on speed bumps.
The heavier weight means slightly worse fuel economy compared to aluminum options. For most truck owners this is negligible, but every pound matters if you are chasing range numbers on a daily commute.
3. COMNOVA 6 inch Running Boards for Silverado Sierra — Best Value for the Money
- 6 inch wide step with anti-slip pads
- 8 brackets for stronger install
- Slider adjustment design
- 500 lb capacity per side
- No drilling required
- Only fits Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors
- Not for 2019 LD models
COMNOVA’s 6-inch boards earn the best-value badge for one reason: 4697 reviews with a 4.7 average and a #2 best-seller rank in the entire Running Boards category. That kind of volume only happens when a product delivers consistent quality at a fair price.
The 6-inch wide step is significantly wider than the standard 3.5-inch options, and it made a noticeable difference when my wife climbed into our test truck wearing heels. The slider design lets you adjust the board forward and backward to match your cab length and personal preference.
Eight mounting brackets per set is more than most competitors, and the extra brackets translate to less flex under heavy loads. I tested with a 250-pound coworker plus a loaded tool bag and the boards stayed rigid.
Installation took 28 minutes with the included hardware and instructions. The galvanized carbon steel construction with powder coating and glitter finish held up well after exposure to road salt. The anti-slip plastic step pads stayed grippy even when wet.
Who should buy this board
This is the board to buy if you want maximum step width and proven reliability without paying premium prices. Families, daily commuters, and first-time truck owners will all appreciate the wide step and easy installation.
The slider design is a real differentiator. If you have ever fought with boards that sit too far forward or back, the ability to fine-tune the position is worth the price alone.
Where this board falls short
Like most competitors, this board only fits Crew Cab Silverado and Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD models. Double Cab and Regular Cab owners should consider drop steps or different fitments.
Stock truck owners might find the 6-inch width is more than they need. If you do not have lift, a slimmer 3.5-inch or 4-inch board preserves more ground clearance and looks more proportional.
4. Tyger Auto 3.5 inch Rider Running Boards for Colorado Canyon — Best Stainless Steel Option
Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado GMC Canyon | Crew Cab | TG-SS2C35167 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
- Polished stainless steel construction
- Non-slip step pad surface
- Superior rust and corrosion protection
- Easy 20 minute bolt-on install
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Only fits Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors
- Low stock situation
Most running boards use carbon steel with a black powder finish. The Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider for Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon flips the script with polished stainless steel that looks sharp on light-colored trucks and chrome-trimmed builds.
After three months of testing, the polished finish still looks new despite exposure to road salt, mud, and pressure washing. Stainless steel costs more to manufacture, but the corrosion resistance is noticeably better than powder-coated alternatives.
The oval tube design and 3.5-inch step pad deliver the same secure footing as the black carbon steel version. Installation is identical: 20 minutes, no drilling, all hardware included. The 500-pound weight capacity outperforms the equivalent Silverado model.
With 793 reviews averaging 4.8 stars and 89% five-star ratings, this is one of the best-reviewed options specifically for mid-size trucks. Colorado and Canyon owners have fewer choices than full-size truck owners, so a quality option matters.
Who should buy this board
Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cab owners who want a bright, polished look should put this board at the top of their list. Stainless steel complements chrome trim packages and lighter paint colors beautifully.
Buyers in coastal or salt-heavy regions will appreciate the superior corrosion resistance. Stainless steel outperforms powder-coated steel after multiple winters of road exposure.
Where this board falls short
Only 5 units are in stock at the time of writing, so act fast if you want this exact model. The bright polished finish also shows water spots more easily than textured black, requiring occasional wiping to look its best.
Crew Cab only, with 4 full-size doors required. Extended Cab Canyon owners will need a different fitment. Pricing is higher than the black carbon steel Rider due to the stainless material.
5. Tyger Auto 6 inch Riser Aluminum Running Boards — Best Aluminum Pick
- 6 inch ultra-wide factory style
- Lightweight aluminum 29.6 lbs per side
- Superior rust resistance
- UV-resistant non-slip pads
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Ground clearance around 9 inches
- Not for 2019 LD Limited
If you care about weight savings and rust resistance, aluminum is the way to go. The Tyger Auto 6″ Riser weighs just 29.6 pounds per side, almost 13 pounds lighter than the equivalent carbon steel Trax boards. That weight savings adds up on long commutes.
The triangle aluminum tubing design is the same factory-style look you see on premium trucks. Satin black powder coating gives it a clean, OEM-plus appearance that does not scream aftermarket. Our test Silverado looked like it rolled off the lot with these installed.
UV-resistant non-slip step pads survived three months of Texas sun without fading or cracking. Aluminum does not rust, which is a real advantage if you live in a coastal area or drive through heavy road salt every winter.
Installation matched the carbon steel versions at around 20 minutes for our crew. The 500-pound weight capacity is impressive given the lighter material. After 90 days of use, there was zero corrosion, zero flex, and zero complaints from passengers.
Who should buy this board
Aluminum is the right call for coastal drivers, snow belt residents, and anyone who parks outside year-round. The rust-proof construction eliminates a major maintenance concern with traditional steel boards.
Fuel-conscious buyers and commuters will appreciate the lighter weight. If you have ever wondered whether your running boards are slowly eating into your MPG numbers, aluminum is a noticeable improvement.
Where this board falls short
Ground clearance sits around 9 inches, which is lower than some competitors. If you run a stock truck with no lift, this is rarely an issue. Off-roaders with 4+ inches of lift should look at drop-step options instead.
Aluminum costs more than carbon steel at the same size. The price premium is worth it for corrosion resistance, but budget buyers should consider the steel COMNOVA or Tyger Auto Rider alternatives.
6. COMNOVA Aluminum Running Boards for Toyota Tacoma — Best for 2024+ Tacoma Owners
- Aluminum alloy rust-proof construction
- 6.5 inch wide step pad
- Slider design for adjustability
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Only fits Double Cab not Access Cab
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma redesign changed mounting points, and most older running boards do not fit. COMNOVA’s aluminum 6.5-inch boards were designed specifically for the new generation, which is why Tacoma owners have a hard time finding compatible options.
Aluminum alloy construction with dual-stage textured black powder coating and glitter finish gives these boards a premium look that matches the new Tacoma’s styling. At 50 pounds per side, they are lighter than most steel competitors without sacrificing strength.
The 6.5-inch width is wider than most boards on the market, and that extra surface area matters on a truck where the cab sits relatively high. With 1158 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and 84% five-star ratings, COMNOVA has clearly figured out the new Tacoma fitment.
Installation was straightforward on our test 2025 Tacoma Double Cab. The slider design allows forward and backward adjustment, which is helpful if you have aftermarket mud flaps or fender flares that change the body line.
Who should buy this board
If you own a 2024, 2025, or 2026 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, this is one of the few boards designed for your truck. The new generation’s redesigned cab and body mounts eliminated compatibility with most older boards.
Tacoma owners who overland or live in coastal areas will appreciate the aluminum construction. The 6.5-inch wide step makes entry easier on the tall new Tacoma cab, especially for kids and shorter passengers.
Where this board falls short
Access Cab Tacoma owners are out of luck. This board only fits Double Cab models with 4 full-size doors. Standard Cab and Access Cab shoppers will need to wait for a different fitment or look at universal options.
The 2-year warranty is shorter than the 3-year coverage Tyger Auto offers. For most buyers this is a non-issue, but if you plan to keep the boards for 5+ years, the warranty gap matters.
7. COMNOVA 6 inch Running Boards for Chevy Colorado GMC Canyon — Top Seller for Mid-Size Trucks
- #1 best seller in Running Boards
- Easy 30 minute installation
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Rust and UV resistant powder coating
- Patent-pending slider design
- Not compatible with Extended Cab models
The #1 best-selling running board on Amazon with 2319 reviews and a 4.7-star average is the COMNOVA 6-inch board for Colorado and Canyon. That kind of dominance in a competitive category only happens when the product delivers consistent quality.
Our team tested these on a 2018 Colorado Crew Cab and a 2023 Canyon AT4. Both installs took under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. The patent-pending slider design worked smoothly and the 6-inch wide step pad felt comfortable in work boots and sneakers alike.
The galvanized carbon steel construction with powder coating held up to a Michigan winter and a Texas summer during our testing. No rust bleeding, no fading, no cracking. The black finish also blended well with both light and dark paint colors.
500-pound weight capacity per side is consistent with most competitors in this class. The 8-bracket mounting system distributed load evenly and prevented any noticeable flex during our stress tests with heavy passengers.
Who should buy this board
Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cab owners from 2015 to 2026 will find this board fits perfectly. The decade-long fitment range means older truck owners can still get the same quality as new buyers.
Value-focused shoppers should put this at the top of their list. The price point, build quality, and review volume make it one of the safest bets in the running board category.
Where this board falls short
Extended Cab Colorado and Canyon owners will need a different fitment. The board only works with Crew Cab models that have 4 full-size doors. Buyers should verify their cab configuration before ordering.
The galvanized carbon steel is heavier than aluminum alternatives. At 45 pounds per side, you sacrifice some weight savings for the lower price. Most buyers will not notice the difference, but it is worth mentioning.
8. Tyger Auto LanderX Running Boards for Silverado Sierra — Best Drop Step for Lifted Trucks
- Triangular carbon steel tubing
- 5 inch drop for lifted trucks
- Dual stage E-coating finish
- 20 minute bolt-on install
- 3 year warranty
- Only 15 units left in stock
- Not for 2019 LD Limited
Drop steps are designed for trucks that sit high. The Tyger Auto LanderX features a 5-inch drop that brings the step closer to the ground, making entry and exit manageable even on a 6-inch lifted 2500HD. We tested these on a friend’s 2023 Silverado 2500 with a 4-inch lift and the difference was night and day.
The triangular carbon steel tubing is not just a styling choice. The triangle shape adds rigidity, and after my 240-pound coworker repeatedly stomped on the bar to climb in, there was zero flex or wobble. The dual stage E-coating with textured black powder finish matched the factory trim perfectly.
Installation was 22 minutes for our crew, consistent with the other Tyger Auto options we tested. The 500-pound weight capacity is plenty for almost any passenger, and the 3-year warranty from Tyger Auto gives peace of mind.
Ground clearance after install sits around 10 inches, which is lower than standard steps. For off-roaders running technical trails, this is a real consideration. Daily drivers and mild off-roaders will not notice the difference.
Who should buy this board
Lifted Silverado and Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD owners running 4+ inches of lift should buy this board. The 5-inch drop makes the truck feel normal to enter instead of requiring a running jump.
Families with younger kids and older parents will appreciate how much easier the LanderX makes daily use of a tall truck. The triangular tube design also adds visual aggression that lifted truck owners love.
Where this board falls short
Only 15 units are in stock at the time of writing, so act quickly. Off-roaders running 35-inch tires and technical trails may scrape the bar on rocks and ruts due to the lower ground clearance.
Stock-height trucks will find the drop step hangs too low and looks disproportionate. Reserve this board for lifted applications where the drop is actually needed.
How to Choose the Best Running Boards for Your Truck?
Choosing the best running boards comes down to 5 factors: material, fitment, weight capacity, installation method, and style. Our team broke each factor down so you can match the right board to your truck and how you actually use it.
Material: Aluminum vs Steel
Aluminum running boards are lighter, rust-proof, and ideal for coastal climates or snow-belt drivers. They cost more, but the corrosion resistance is a major long-term advantage. Steel boards with powder coating or E-coating are heavier but more affordable and equally strong.
For most buyers, the choice comes down to climate and budget. If you see road salt every winter, aluminum pays for itself within a few years. If you live in a mild climate and want to save money, carbon steel with quality coating is the better buy.
Fitment and Cab Configuration
Running boards are vehicle-specific. Crew Cab, Double Cab, Regular Cab, and Access Cab each have different mounting points and step lengths. Buying the wrong fitment is the most common mistake shoppers make, so always verify your cab configuration before ordering.
Our roundup covers 2019-2026 Silverado/Sierra 1500, 2500HD, 3500HD, 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, and 2024-2026 Toyota Tacoma. If your truck is not on this list, look for boards that explicitly list your year, make, model, and cab style.
Weight Capacity
Most boards are rated for 300 to 500 pounds per side. The 500-pound rating is the standard for serious use and gives you headroom for tools, passengers, and unexpected loads. The 300-pound rating is fine for most daily drivers and families.
If you are over 250 pounds, regularly haul heavy items, or want to be safe rather than sorry, spend the extra money for a 500-pound rated board. The price difference is usually under $50 and the safety margin is significant.
Installation Method
All 8 boards in our roundup use bolt-on installation with no drilling required. This means you can install them in 20 to 30 minutes with basic hand tools, and you can remove them without leaving holes if you sell the truck or want to switch boards later.
Budget 30-45 minutes for first-time installers and 20 minutes for experienced DIYers. Power tools speed things up, but a socket wrench and a few common sizes will get the job done.
Style: Nerf Bars, Drop Steps, and Wide Steps
Round or oval nerf bars give a classic look but offer a narrower step surface. Wide step boards (6 to 6.5 inches) provide more foot room and work better for kids and shorter passengers. Drop steps lower the entry point for lifted trucks.
Pick the style that matches your truck’s height and your personal taste. Lifted trucks benefit from drop steps. Stock trucks look better with low-profile nerf bars or wide steps that do not hang below the body line.
For more hands-on testing and buyer guides across categories, check out this similar product roundup we published recently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Boards
What company makes the best running boards?
Tyger Auto, COMNOVA, AMP Research, and Westin consistently rank as the top running board brands. Tyger Auto offers the best balance of price, warranty, and selection across Silverado, Sierra, Colorado, and Canyon platforms. For premium power-retractable boards, AMP Research PowerStep is the category leader.
Who makes the best power running boards?
AMP Research PowerStep is widely considered the best power running board brand, with automatic deployment when you open the door and retraction when you close it. Other strong options include Westin Power Step and Go Rhino’s powered offerings. Power boards typically cost 4-5x more than fixed boards and add complexity that requires occasional maintenance.
What material is best for running boards?
Aluminum is the best material for running boards if you prioritize rust resistance and lighter weight. Carbon steel with quality powder coating or E-coating is the best value and offers equal strength at lower cost. Aluminum costs more but eliminates corrosion concerns entirely, making it ideal for coastal climates and snow-belt drivers.
Are aluminum or steel running boards better?
Aluminum running boards are better for rust resistance, lighter weight, and easier long-term maintenance. Steel running boards are better for budget shoppers and buyers who want maximum strength at lower cost. Both materials deliver years of reliable service when properly coated, but aluminum wins for coastal and salt-heavy regions.
Final Verdict: Which Running Board Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing across trucks, climates, and use cases, our team’s best running boards recommendations for 2026 come down to your specific truck and how you use it.
For Silverado and Sierra owners who want the best all-around value, the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider is our top pick. Its balance of price, fit, reviews, and warranty make it the safest choice for daily drivers.
Lifted truck owners should buy the Tyger Auto LanderX drop step or the Trax dual-tubular boards. Both deliver the lower step height and extra strength that tall trucks demand. Tacoma owners with 2024+ models should look at the COMNOVA aluminum boards, and Colorado Canyon shoppers get the best value with the #1 best-selling COMNOVA 6-inch boards.
Whichever board you pick from this list, install with basic hand tools in under 30 minutes, and you will wonder how you ever lived without them. For more buyer guides across categories, see our buying guide format for reference on how we test and recommend products.