Are Running Boards Worth It for Pickup Trucks? Pros, Cons, and Buying Tips

Introduction

Are running boards actually worth it for pickup trucks? For a lot of truck owners, the answer’s a solid yes—especially if you’re climbing in and out of a tall truck all day. And If you’ve got kids, older parents, or just need to grab gear from the roof or truck bed in the middle of winter, running boards start to feel less like a style choice and more like a practical addition.

That’s exactly why you see so many Canadian pickups with running boards . Trucks here aren’t just weekend vehicles—they’re vehicles for driving to work, hauling the family around, towing, job sites, and even road trips.

To put in context, Statistics Canada counted 26.8 million registered vehicles in 2024, with light-duty vehicles making up 91.6% of those registrations and SUVs and trucks continuing to drive major sales growth.

That’s where the best running board for trucks earns its place. They give you a stable place to stand in rain or snow, and even cut back on the mud splashing up. Lots of truck owners also just like the tougher look it gives their ride.

At the same time, the right setup isn’t for everyone. Some people want wide steps for family comfort, others want slim running boards to keep ground clearance for off-roading.

If you live in Canada, picking boards that don’t rust and have anti-slip surfaces is pretty important—a slippery step in winter is bad news.

Overall, running boards hit a nice sweet spot between convenience and function. If you drive a bigger or lifted truck, they make life a lot easier.

What Are Running Boards?

Running boards are one of those simple pickup truck accesory that just make life easier. You’ll spot them mounted along the lower side of the truck, right underneath the doors.

Instead of awkwardly hauling yourself up into a taller truck, you can step onto the running board first, then into the cabin. It’s a good, solid spot to plant your foot.

Most running boards bolt right onto the factory mounts, so you don’t have to fuss with big changes on your truck. If you’ve got a lifted pickup or a full-size truck, they’re even more useful.

The cabin sits pretty high, and having that extra step saves your knees and makes getting in and out way less of a struggle.

That’s probably why running boards are such a popular choice for pickup owners—they’re practical, always there when you need them, and just make your day-to-day routine smoother.

Common Types of Running Boards For Truck

Benefits of Running Boards

Running boards are mainly valued for how they enhance the usability, especially when you’re constantly hopping in and out, loading gear, or moving around your truck. Honestly, their value is all about convenience, not just looks, and you notice it most during regular driving.

Getting In and Out Is Way Easier

Pickups sit higher than regular cars, so climbing in can feel like a workout. A running board gives you a steady step that’s lower and easier to reach.

Here’s when they really help:

• If you’re getting in and out a bunch of times each day
• When your hands are full with bags or tools
• On rough or sloped ground, where you need a sure footing

In Canadian winters, this becomes more noticeable due to packed snow on your boots and icy parking lots where having a wider, stable step can keep you from slipping.

Better for Families and Frequent Passengers

If you drive with your family or share the truck, running boards make repeated access manageable for everyone.

They come in handy when:

• Kids are climbing in and out of a tall truck
• Older adults would rather avoid big steps
• Shorter people need some help

The Public Health Agency of Canada points out that falls send a lot of seniors to the hospital. Sure, running boards aren’t safety gear, but having a firm step definitely makes getting in and out safer for daily routines.

Easier Access to Cargo and the Roof

Running boards also help when you’re managing stuff around the truck.

You get easier reach for:

• Roof racks and cargo boxes
• Loading sports gear or outdoor equipment
• Ladder racks on work trucks
• Getting at the bed, especially with covers or storage

You won’t have to awkwardly stretch or leap to reach high spots anymore.

A Little Protection from Road Grit

While running boards aren’t built purely for defense, they do act as a barrier down low.

How they help:

• Splash from slush and wet roads stays mostly off your doors
• Less dirt builds up along the bottom
• Small stones get deflected before they hit paint

In Canadian winters, road salt and slush are everywhere, so this extra shield really stands out. Even Environment and Climate Change Canada talks about this in their winter road maintenance info.

Cleaner Appearance

There’s a visual bonus, too. Running boards fill the empty space between the cab and the ground, so the truck looks more balanced from the side.

They:

• Make the profile look complete
• Blend nicely with factory or custom styles

So, you get a functional upgrade that doesn't mess with your truck’s look—if anything, it pulls it all together.

Drawbacks of Running Boards

Running boards are genuinely useful day to day, but you'll want to weigh a few practical drawbacks depending on how you use your truck and where you drive it. Most of these issues aren’t deal-breakers—they’re just things to keep in mind.

Reduced Ground Clearance

Since running boards sit pretty low along the truck’s side, they shave off a bit of ground clearance right at the edges.

• They’re more likely to scrape or bump into stuff on rough or uneven ground.
• If you often battle steep driveways or rocky trails, this can be a challenge.
• Less ideal for drivers who regularly take their trucks off-road, especially on tough terrain.

Serious off-roading drivers usually go with rock sliders instead. Those are built to take hits and shield the truck.

Snow, Ice, and Road Salt Build-Up

Canadian winters really put running boards through their paces.

• You’ll get slush, ice, and salt building up on them thanks to road spray and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Ice can form, salt piles up especially where joints and edges meet.
• Sometimes you need to knock off those chunks to keep traction.

If your area treats roads with salt often, it’s even more important to pay attention—just look at the winter maintenance advice from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Added Weight and Fuel Efficiency

Running boards add a little weight to your truck—one on each side.

• Heavier trucks use more fuel to get moving.
• The fuel impact is usually pretty minor, especially for pickups, but it’s still there.

Natural Resources Canada and the U.S. Department of Energy both say extra weight affects fuel efficiency, though it’s not a huge deal for most trucks.

Installation and Cost

How you install running boards depends on the type you buy.

• Some bolt on easily with no fuss; others need drilling or custom brackets.
• Power running boards come with electrical parts and a trickier install, so you might want a pro to do it, especially for a good fit and long-term reliability.

Always check if the board matches your truck’s model and cab size—getting the right fit is key.

Canadian Winter Driving Considerations

Canadian winters can make life pretty tough for pickup truck accessories—especially anything that’s stuck outside in the snow and road salt.

Running boards have it rough, so if you want them to hold up, you’ve got to think about what they’re made of, how they’re built, and how you’re going to look after them once the cold hits.

Material Matters

Dealing with winter up here really comes down to whether your running boards can handle all that moisture and corrosive road salt.

• Aluminum stands up well against rust, so it’s a solid pick for salty roads.
• Stainless steel is even tougher and gives you great long-term protection.
• Powder-coated steel works too, but only if the coating stays intact—one chip, and rust can sneak in.

Road salt is everywhere in Canada during winter, and it’s probably the biggest threat to your truck’s metal parts.

Grip Is Everything in Winter

Once your boots get wet or icy, it’s easy to slip. That’s when you really want running boards designed for traction.

• Look for boards with grippy, textured surfaces or raised treads.
• Drainage channels make a difference—they let melted snow or slush run off, so things don’t get slick.

All that extra grip helps keep you steady, even when there’s snow or a thin layer of ice.

Keeping Your Boards in Shape

A little routine care goes a long way in winter. Don’t let salt and ice sit around.

• Rinse off any salt on the boards as often as you can.
• Knock off any ice, especially after a storm or heavy freeze.
• Give the mounting points a quick check to make sure everything’s still tight, and nothing’s rusting out.

Stay on top of cleaning, and your running boards will last a lot longer—even with another tough Canadian winter.

Difference Between Running Boards vs. Other Truck Side Steps

Running boards might all look like they do the same thing, but they're actually built for different needs. What works best really depends on how you use your truck, not just what looks cool.

How to Choose the Right Running Boards?

Picking running boards isn’t rocket science—you just want something that fits your truck, handles where you drive, and works for your daily routine. A quick checklist keeps the process simple.

Check Vehicle Fitment and Cab Size

First, check if the running board actually matches your truck and cab size. Manufacturers design boards for specific layouts, so you really need to pay attention here:

• Crew Cab: Go with boards that run the full length, covering all passenger doors.
• Double Cab: Medium-length boards work, since door spacing’s a bit tighter.
• Extended Cab: Look for shorter boards or ones with rear-step options.

Getting the right fit means the boards line up with your doors and factory mounts. They’ll look right and feel secure—no wobbly steps.

Choose the Right Material

This affects how long your boards last and how much you’ll have to clean or maintain them.

• Aluminum is easy to take care of and perfect for wet climates or salted roads.
• Stainless steel is tough and lasts a long time.
• Standard steel is best if your truck’s more of a workhorse.

Pick the material that matches what you do most—daily commute, jobsite, or a mix of everything.

Evaluate Surface Grip

The tread matters when things get slippery or muddy. Find boards with good traction for:

• Rain or melting snow
• Muddy job sites
• Heavy boots

The step should keep you steady whether it’s dry, wet, or covered in muck.

Consider Ground Clearance Needs

This is another thing to think about. The height and shape of the board you need depends on where—and how—you drive.

• If your truck’s lifted, drop-style boards help balance the step height.
• Off-road? Low-profile or reinforced boards won’t snag on rocks.
• Deep snow? Pick designs that won’t collect a bunch of packed snow.

You want boards that help with access but don’t mess up your driving.

Review Weight Capacity and Build Quality

Check how much weight the boards can handle and how solid they feel. If you’ve got a heavy load, lots of passengers hopping in and out, or you’re wearing chunky winter gear, the boards should stay firm—no sagging or shifting.

Look at Installation Method and Warranty

Installation type affects both convenience and long-term serviceability.

• Bolt-on boards are easier to install and to remove if needed.
• Boards that need drilling aren’t as simple, but sometimes offer a sturdier fit.
• Electric boards need wiring and careful setup.

It’s good to check the warranty, especially if you want protection against rust or anything breaking down.

All these decisions should fit within safety guidelines—Transport Canada lays out the rules on how aftermarket parts are supposed to perform out on the road. Make sure your running boards meet those standards.

Who Should Consider Running Boards?

Running boards really make sense when your pickup isn’t just for weekend drives but for your daily ride, your workhorse, or your go-to for hauling gear. If you find yourself climbing in and out of a tall truck all the time, especially with kids or older passengers, running boards just make life easier.

• They help drivers who want quick, simple access every day.
• Families with kids. If your truck sits high off the ground, you’ll appreciate not having to lift them in and out all the time.
• Older parents definitely prefer having a solid, lower step too.
• Owner of Lifted trucks where cabin height makes access more demanding.
• Work focused drivers who constantly get in and out during job tasks
• Outdoor users who load up with camping gear, sports equipment, or tools.
• Even trucks with roof racks, ladder racks, or bed storage set-ups benefit here.
• Owners who really want to pull the truck’s look together, giving it a more finished, polished vibe.

Who May Not Need Running Boards?

Running boards make life easier for plenty of truck owners, but honestly, not everyone needs them. Some trucks are designed so you can hop in without any help, and certain drivers just aren’t into extra accessories.

• Owners who hit the trails and need every inch of ground clearance.
• Off-road enthusiasts who usually keep things unmodified to maintain the best approach angles. Drivers who just love the clean, factory look with no extra hardware hanging off the sides.
• Trucks with a low step-in, so getting in and out isn’t a struggle.
• Owners who want fewer exterior parts to clean in the winter and less upkeep.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Running Boards Worth It For Pickup Trucks?

They are worth it for drivers who get in and out on a regular basis—especially in those taller models and family-use setup. They make the most sense for everyday convenience and usability.

1. Do Running Boards Reduce Ground Clearance?

Since they hang below the body, trucks lose some side clearance. Off-roading or driving on rough ground is when you’ll actually notice it.

1. Are Running Boards Good For Winter Driving?

Most running boards have textured surfaces and drainage grooves, so you’re less likely to slip on ice or snow. Just remember to clean them off—mud and slush can build up fast.

1. What Is The Difference Between Running Boards And Nerf Bars ?

Running boards are wider and flat, so you get more space to step. Nerf bars are usually round and slim, so they look sleeker but don’t offer as much footing. It comes down to whether you want comfort or style.

1. Do Running Boards Affect Fuel Economy?

Not much. You’re adding a bit of weight, but for most pickups, it barely makes a difference.

1. What Type Of Running Board Is Best For Lifted Trucks?

If your truck’s lifted, look for drop-style boards or ones with a lower step—they make it easier to climb in.

1. What Material Works Best For Canadian Winters?

For rough Canadian winters, stick with aluminum or stainless steel running boards. They’re tough, don’t rust as easily, and stand up to road salt.

Final Takeaway

Running boards aren’t just some random truck accessory. They quietly change the whole vibe of your pickup—day after day. The first time you step in with muddy boots, toss gear into the bed in the dark, or help someone climb into that tall cab without effort, and you’ll instantly get why they matter.

If you drive a pickup in Canada, you know what I mean. Snow, slush, higher ride heights—these things are pretty much a way of life. The right running boards make it all way easier. It’s not about making your truck flashier. It’s about making every drive a little smoother, safer, and just simpler.

Honestly, the real question isn’t, “Do running boards look cool?” It’s, “Would life with your truck be easier with them?” Try them once—most drivers realize the answer is a definite yes.

Ready to step up your game? Check out the durable, winter-proof running boards and side steps at LaxParts and find the perfect match for your pickup.

About the Author – Jason Miller

Jason Miller has worked in the automotive aftermarket industry for over 30 years. With extensive experience in truck accessories, fitment, and product development, he understands what truck owners are really looking for.