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Auto Accessories 101 - Side Bars vs. Running Boards
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3. Bull Bars vs. Grille Guards
4. Side Bars vs. Running Boards
5. Advantages of a Track Mounting System
6. Rocker Mount vs. Bushing Mount
Side Bars vs. Running Boards
Though side bars and running boards are sometimes used interchangeably by some manufacturers, ARIES makes a few key distinctions between the two categories. The following points are intended to help you choose which product will best serve your needs and preferences.
Side bars are referred to by many names, including nerf bars, step bars and side steps, to name a few. A side bar's primary function is to provide a stepping surface into the vehicle. For this reason, they are generally used on larger vehicles, such as pickup trucks and SUVs. However, for aesthetic value, they are also found on smaller vehicles, such as compact SUVs and crossovers.
Side bars are typically designed to mount with a certain amount of space between the step and the body of the vehicle. This space can vary, depending on the model, but it is generally a few inches. They are also designed to mount low on the vehicle, allowing for less ground clearance but providing a more functional step for lifted vehicles. Side bars also usually have individual step pads to correspond to each door on the vehicle, and they are generally narrower than running boards.
Side bars are different from running boards because they:
- Leave extra space between the step and the vehicle
- Offer less ground clearance for an easier step on lifted vehicles
- Feature individual, custom-positioned step pads
- Typically have a narrower width than running boards
Like a side bar, a running board provides a stepping surface into the vehicle. However, it generally mounts flush against the vehicle's rocker panel, or closer to it, instead of leaving a gap. Running boards are also typically wider than side bars and have an overall flatter profile. Instead of individually placed step pads, the flat stepping surface usually has a tread that spans the length of the board.
Running boards are found on everything from larger pickup trucks and SUVs to smaller crossovers, providing a convenient step and additional aesthetic value. Unlike side bars that mount down and away from the vehicle, running boards typically offer more ground clearance, making them an excellent choice for lower vehicles.
Running boards are different from side bars because they:
- Mount relatively flush against the rocker panels
- Offer more ground clearance for lower vehicles
- Feature a single, full-length tread
- Typically have a wider, flatter profile
< Back to Bull Bars vs. Grille Guards
Continue to Advantages of a Track Mounting System >
Auto Accessories 101 - Side Bars vs. Running Boards
< Back to Auto Accessories Guide
3. Bull Bars vs. Grille Guards
4. Side Bars vs. Running Boards
5. Advantages of a Track Mounting System
6. Rocker Mount vs. Bushing Mount
Side Bars vs. Running Boards
Side bars and running boards are a popular way to accessorize your truck or SUV and add style while increasing traction and promoting stability when entering or exiting the vehicle cab.
Running boards and side bars have numerous similarities and are often used interchangeably by manufacturers, although ARIES makes a few key distinctions between the two similar but different categories.
In order to help you choose which product will best serve your needs and preferences, we've put together the key points and details to simplify your choice and inform your buying decision.
Read below to learn more about the differences between side bars and running boards!
Side Bars
Side bars are popular aftermarket accessories that are often chosen for their bold, sporty look that sharpens the style of your truck or SUV while improving the ease of entering and exiting the vehicle. They are designed to mount away from the vehicle body and reduce the stepping distance into taller vehicles.
Sometimes referred to as nerf bars, step bars, and side steps, the primary function of the side bar is to provide a sturdy step into the vehicle, usually several inches below the doorsill. For this reason, side bars are often used with pickup trucks and SUVs, although they're also found on smaller vehicles, such as compact SUVs and crossovers because of their sporty style and utility.
Side bars are designed to mount beneath the doorsill several inches, which helps to reduce the stepping distance from the ground to the cab of the vehicle. This reduced distance between the step and the body of the vehicle provides a more gradual entry and exit while preventing guesswork when looking for a sturdy stepping surface.
Depending on your preferences and the vehicle at hand, this amount of space can vary but is generally as little as three inches or as much as a foot on large, lifted vehicles. Side bars are also typically tubular and have individual step pads for each door of the vehicle. They are also generally narrower than running boards due to their cylindrical style.
Side bars differ from running boards in several distinct ways — they are designed to mount low on the vehicle, away from the cab to reduce the stepping distance into larger, lifted vehicles, and they feature a sporty, bold, tubular style.
Side bars are different from running boards because they:
- Are specifically designed to mount AWAY from the vehicle cab
- Are made to reduce stepping distance into taller vehicles
- Are tubular and narrow compared to running boards
- Feature a bold and sporty style ideal for trucks and SUVs
Running Boards
Running boards are distinct from side bars as they are wide, platform-like steps that are mounted just beneath the doorsill of the vehicle. They're typically designed for factory-height vehicles with less ground clearance and mount flush against the vehicle's rocker panel, instead of mounting lower with a gap between the vehicle the way that side bars do.
Running boards are also typically much wider than side bars and feature a flat profile that spans the length of the vehicle cab. The running board has been popular since the first automobiles and provides a sturdy, long, platform-like step that is easy to locate when exiting since they're mounted close to the vehicle cab.
Running boards are also more popular on OEM vehicles and provide a sturdy step with a tasteful style that isn't too far removed from the factory style of the vehicle and not too detached from the vehicle body.
The running board provides a type of utility and style distinct from side bars, because of the wide, flat platform- style step, in contrast to tubular side bars. Instead of individually placed step pads, the flat stepping surface usually has a tread that spans the length of the board.
Running boards can be found on everything from larger pickup trucks and SUVs to smaller crossovers, providing a convenient step and tasteful style. Unlike side bars that mount down and away from the vehicle, running boards typically offer more ground clearance, making them an excellent choice for lower vehicles.
Running boards differ from side bars in several distinct ways — they are designed to mount just beneath the doorsill of the vehicle and provide a wide, platform-like stepping surface that improves traction and stability. They also feature a more subtle, factory style.
Running boards are different from side bars because they:
- Are specifically designed to mount FLUSH beneath the vehicle cab
- Offer more stepping surface for shorter, factory-height vehicles
- Have a wide, flat, platform-like style that spans the length of the cab
- Feature a more subtle, tasteful style perfect for cars, trucks, and SUVs
Five Reasons to Buy ARIES Side Bars or Running Boards
- They improve traction and stability when entering and exiting your truck, car, or SUV
- Both add personalized style and utility to your vehicle
- They reduce the stepping distance from the cab of the vehicle to the ground
- They improve safety for family, friends, and pets
- Both are made with quality materials and built to last
The Benefits of Side Bars Vs. Running Boards
Side Bars
- Focus more on reducing stepping distance for taller vehicles
- Feature a tubular, cylindrical design that is narrower
- Provides a sporty, bold look that gives your vehicle off-road style
Running Boards
- Focus more on providing a wide, platform-like step for shorter vehicles
- Feature a wide, long stepping surface that is ideal for stability
- Provides a more subtle, factory style that gives your vehicle a distinguished look
ARIES ActionTrac™ Powered Running Boards Combine the Benefits of Both
If you're stuck choosing between the benefits of side bars and running boards and like the idea of having a wide, long platform-like step but also desire a side bar that further reduces the stepping distance to the ground, ARIES ActionTrac™ powered running boards offer the perfect combination of all the best features.
ARIES ActionTrac™ powered running boards are wide and long, similar to traditional running boards, but are designed to reduce the stepping distance to the ground further through a powered step that deploys downward when the door of the truck or SUV is opened.
The running board mounts just beneath the doorsill while also providing a second step in between the top step and the ground — the perfect combination of utility that provides a more gradual, stable step up into your truck or SUV.
The second step also retracts when the door is closed and is hidden when not in use! ARIES ActionTrac™ powered running boards add sophisticated style and technology that improves the aesthetics of your vehicle while providing advanced utility for friends, family, and pets when entering or exiting your vehicle.
ARIES powered running boards combine the benefits of side bars and traditional running boards and are designed to mount just beneath the doorsill of the vehicle, providing two platform-like stepping surfaces for a gradual, stable entry into your truck or SUV.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about ARIES Running Boards & Nerf Bars
What's the difference between side bars, nerf bars, step bars, and running boards?
Step bars, nerf bars, and side bars are often used interchangeably to describe the same type of accessory, which typically attaches to the sides of trucks and SUVs to provide a stepping surface for easier entry and exit. Although, these different categories have distinct differences. Running boards are similar but usually wider and flatter, providing a larger stepping area along the vehicle's sides.
Are side bars and running boards compatible with all types of trucks and SUVs?
Many side bars and running boards are designed to be universally compatible but ARIES side bars are made specifically for your model of trucks or SUV. It's essential to check compatibility with your specific vehicle make, model, and year before purchasing.
Do step bars and running boards affect ground clearance?
In general, step bars and running boards are designed to minimize the impact on ground clearance. However, some models may reduce ground clearance slightly, so it's important to consider the design and installation of the specific product.
Are side bars and running boards easy to install?
Many side bars, nerf bars and running boards come with detailed installation instructions and mounting hardware, making them relatively easy to install for those with basic mechanical skills. However, professional installation may be recommended for some models or for those who are not comfortable with DIY installations.
Can side bars and running boards support heavy weight?
Most step bars and running boards are designed to support the weight of passengers entering and exiting the vehicle. However, it's essential to check the weight capacity of the specific product to ensure it meets your needs.
Do side bars and running boards come with a warranty?
Many manufacturers offer warranties for their side bars and running boards, but the duration and coverage can vary. Be sure to check the warranty information provided by the manufacturer before making a purchase.
Do side bars and running boards affect aerodynamics and fuel efficiency?
While step bars and running boards may have minimal impact on aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds, any added accessories may affect vehicle performance.
Are side bars and running boards slip-resistant?
ARIES side bars and running boards feature slip-resistant surfaces or textured patterns to improve traction, especially in wet or icy conditions. However, it's essential to check the product specifications to ensure it meets the safety requirements for your specific application or needs.
Do side bars and running boards interfere with factory-installed sensors and cameras?
ARIES side bars and running boards are made to not interfere with factory sensors and cameras; however, some step bars and running boards may interfere, depending on their design and placement. It's essential to choose a product that is compatible with your vehicle's sensors and cameras or to seek professional installation to ensure proper functionality.