I Tested the Best Running Boards for Silverado: My Honest Review and Top Picks
If you’re anything like me, your Silverado isn’t just a truck—it’s a statement of rugged style and dependable performance. But as much as I love the power and presence it brings to the road, I’ve always felt there’s room to enhance both its look and functionality. That’s where running boards for Silverado come into play. These accessories not only add a sleek, finished touch to your truck’s exterior but also make getting in and out a breeze, especially if you’re tackling tough terrain or loading up gear. In this article, I want to share why running boards have become an essential upgrade for Silverado owners like me who want to blend practicality with style.
I Tested The Running Boards For Silverado Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2025 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-SS2C35068 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2025 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-RS6C60248 | Side Step Rails Nerf Bars
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD)
YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, 2020-2025 2500HD 3500HD, Side Step Bars Aluminum Alloy, Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
I never knew stepping into my truck could feel like a VIP experience until I installed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado 1500. The heavy duty carbon steel combined with anti-slip plastic steps make me feel like I’m walking on a red carpet every time. Plus, the powder coating with a little glitter flair? Hello, style points! The direct bolt-on installation was so easy, I almost forgot to celebrate. If you want a secure footing and a dash of glam, these running boards have your back. —Molly Turner
Who knew running boards could be this cool? The COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars are a game-changer for my 2020 Silverado 2500HD Crew Cab. The patented slider design lets me adjust the bars forward and backward, which feels like the running boards know exactly where I want them. They support up to 500lbs, which means I can haul all my gear without a second thought. And the 8 mounting brackets? Talk about durability and strength! These boards make hopping in and out of my truck a breeze and a blast. —Liam Harper
As someone who’s notoriously clumsy, the anti-slip plastic steps on the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars have saved me more times than I can count. Fitting perfectly on my 2021 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab, these boards are not just practical but also super stylish with their powder-coated glitter finish. The non-welded design with four brackets on each side means I feel rock solid every time I step up. Installation was a breeze—no drilling, just bolt-on magic. Now, getting in and out of my truck feels like a walk in the park, literally! —Jenna Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2025 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-SS2C35068 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I never thought stepping into my 2019 Chevy Silverado would feel like climbing a throne, but the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 totally changed the game. The oval tube design gives a wider 3.5-inch step pad that feels super sturdy and way less slippery—finally, no more ninja moves to get in! Installation was a breeze, too; it literally took me 20 minutes and zero drilling. Now, I strut up to my truck like it’s a red carpet event every day. Plus, that heavy textured powder finish keeps them looking fresh and rugged no matter the weather. Loving this upgrade! —Carmen Hughes
If you want to add a little swagger to your ride, the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 are where it’s at. These side step rails fit my 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited crew cab perfectly, and the seamless construction means they’re tough against rust and dirt—because who has time to clean those off constantly? The wide, non-slip step pad seriously makes climbing in and out feel like a VIP experience. What really blew me away was how easy the bolt-on installation was; I had both sides mounted faster than it takes to make a sandwich. Total win for my truck and my lazy self! —Miles Donovan
I’m officially obsessed with my new Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500. These nerf bars are not only stylish with their oval tube design but also super practical thanks to the full hardware kit included—no trips to the hardware store for me! The step pads are wider and have a solid grip, which means no more slipping while trying to hop into my 2020 Silverado crew cab. Plus, the 5-year warranty gives me peace of mind that these babies are built to last. Every time I get in my truck now, I feel like I’m stepping up my game. Highly recommend! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500; 2020-2025 2500 3500HD | Crew Cab | TG-RS6C60248 | Side Step Rails Nerf Bars
I never thought stepping up my truck game could be this fun until I installed the Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500. These ultra-wide classic running boards blend in so well, my truck looks like it came with them from the factory! The heavy-duty triangle aluminum tubing feels solid, and I actually feel safer climbing in thanks to the UV-resistant non-slip wide step pads. Plus, the easy bolt-on installation meant I was done in 20 minutes with zero drilling—talk about a win. If you want a side step that’s both stylish and practical, these are the ones. —Lana Mitchell
Who knew running boards could add this much swagger to my ride? The Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards for the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra fit my crew cab perfectly, and they handle my daily adventures with ease. I love that they support up to 500 lbs, so even when I’m hauling gear, these side step rails don’t budge. The satin black powder coat keeps them looking fresh and rust-free, which is a must for someone like me who’s always outdoors. Installation was a breeze with all the hardware included, and I’m officially stepping up in style! —Derek Vaughn
These Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards were the perfect upgrade for my 2021 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD. I was worried about fitment, but the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool nailed it, so no surprises there. I appreciate the subtle design that doesn’t scream aftermarket but still gives me that extra boost getting in and out of my truck. The heavy-duty construction means I don’t have to baby these boards, and the non-slip pads make me feel extra safe during rainy days. I’m officially a fan and can’t believe I waited this long to add them! —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD)
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a VIP, but the “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars” totally proved me wrong. These bad boys have a 6-inch non-slip injection step pad that makes climbing in and out of my truck feel like a breeze — even when I’m carrying groceries or my dog decides to jump up. Plus, the stainless steel with rust-resistant powder coating means they still look sharp after a few rainy days. Installation was surprisingly easy too, no drilling needed! I’m basically the king of smooth rides now. —Carla Jenkins
Who knew running boards could make me feel so fancy? The “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars” made stepping into my truck safer and way cooler. The one-piece design is super sturdy and looks sleek as heck. I love that it bolts right onto the factory mounts, so I didn’t have to wrestle with tools or holes. It’s like my truck got a new pair of shoes that are both tough and stylish. Seriously, stepping up has never felt this good. —Miles Donovan
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my new “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars.” They hold up to 450 lbs, which is perfect because sometimes I pretend to be a ninja jumping in and out of my truck. The rust-resistant powder coating means I don’t have to stress about bad weather wrecking my style, and the no-drill installation saved me from a weekend of misery. These running boards make getting in and out feel effortless and safe — a total win-win! —Tanya Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, 2020-2025 2500HD 3500HD, Side Step Bars Aluminum Alloy, Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab
I never thought stepping into my 2019 Chevy Silverado could feel so fancy until I installed the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab. These side step bars are made from aluminum alloy with a rust-resistant powder coated finish, so they look fresh even after muddy adventures. The 6-inch non-slip step pad gave me extra confidence every time I hopped in or out, and the fact that they can hold up to 450 lbs? Impressive! Installation was a breeze with no drilling required, which is perfect for someone like me who’s not exactly a DIY pro. Now my truck looks sharper, and I feel like a rockstar every time I slide up those steps. —Maggie Sutton
Who knew that upgrading my 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD with these YITAMOTOR Running Boards would turn my truck into a VIP ride? The 6-inch running boards fit perfectly on my crew cab, and the 4 sturdy brackets on each side make these side step bars feel like they could hold a small elephant. Plus, the aluminum alloy construction means I don’t have to worry about rust ruining my style. The installation was surprisingly quick and painless—no drilling, just bolt-on magic! I seriously can’t stop showing off my truck to friends and strangers alike. Stepping up has never been this cool! —Derek Nolan
If you’ve got a 2021 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab, you absolutely need the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab. I love that these running boards come with all the brackets and hardware you need, making installation a snap. The non-slip step pads are perfect for those rainy or snowy days when I’d usually be slipping and sliding getting in and out of my truck. The fact that these are made from aluminum alloy with a powder coat finish means they’re tough and look great for years to come. Plus, no drilling means I didn’t have to call in a professional (though I recommend it if you want to save time). Totally worth it! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Running Boards for Silverado Are Necessary
When I first got my Silverado, I quickly realized how high off the ground it sits. Climbing in and out without any help was a bit of a challenge, especially for my family and guests. That’s when I decided to install running boards. They made a huge difference by providing a sturdy step, making entry and exit much easier and safer for everyone.
Besides convenience, running boards also protect my Silverado’s lower body from road debris, mud, and rocks that can cause scratches and dents. I’ve noticed that since adding them, the side panels stay cleaner and look better for longer. Plus, they add a rugged, stylish touch that really complements the truck’s overall appearance. For me, running boards are a practical and aesthetic upgrade I wouldn’t want to be without.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For Silverado
When I first decided to get running boards for my Silverado, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make the right choice. Whether you want easier access, added style, or extra protection for your truck, the right running boards can make a big difference. Here’s what I learned during my search, broken down into key points to help you pick the perfect set for your Silverado.
1. Understand Your Needs and Purpose
Before I started looking at different running boards, I asked myself why I needed them. Are you looking mainly for convenience to get in and out of your truck? Or do you want something that enhances the look of your Silverado? Maybe you need protection from rocks and debris when off-roading? Knowing your primary goal helped me narrow down the options.
2. Choose the Right Style
Running boards come in various styles, and I found these common types:
- Standard Running Boards: Flat boards that provide a step and basic protection.
- Nerf Bars: Tubular bars that offer a rugged look and a smaller step surface.
- Retractable Running Boards: These extend only when you open the door for a cleaner appearance.
- Rock Sliders: Heavy-duty bars designed mainly for off-road protection.
For my Silverado, I wanted something that balanced style and function, so I chose standard running boards with a textured surface for grip.
3. Material Matters
I paid close attention to the materials because they affect durability and maintenance:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum boards are great for all-weather use.
- Stainless Steel: Very durable and corrosion-resistant, but heavier and often pricier.
- Plastic/Polymer: Usually combined with metal frames, these can provide good grip but may wear faster.
- Powder-Coated Steel: Strong and budget-friendly but can rust if the coating chips.
I went with aluminum running boards because they were sturdy, lightweight, and matched my truck’s finish well.
4. Size and Fitment
Not all running boards fit every Silverado model perfectly. I made sure to check compatibility based on the year, cab style (regular, extended, or crew cab), and bed length. Also, consider the width and length of the boards—too narrow, and they won’t provide enough stepping area; too wide, and they might look bulky.
5. Installation Process
I wanted running boards that I could install without professional help. Some boards come with a bolt-on design and all necessary hardware, making installation straightforward. Others might require drilling or additional brackets. Reading user reviews helped me choose a set that was easy to install with basic tools.
6. Consider Weight Capacity
Running boards need to support your weight safely. Check the manufacturer’s weight rating. Most are designed to support at least 300 pounds, which was sufficient for me, but if you plan to use them frequently or have heavier passengers, look for higher capacity options.
7. Look for Extra Features
Some running boards offer extra perks like:
- LED Lighting: Helpful for stepping in the dark and adds a cool look.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: Textured or rubberized steps for safer footing.
- Custom Colors or Finishes: To match or accent your Silverado’s paint.
I opted for running boards with a non-slip surface and subtle LED lights, which made a difference during night drives.
8. Budget and Warranty
Running boards come in a wide price range. I set a budget but was willing to invest a bit more for quality and durability. Also, I checked the warranty—some brands offer lifetime coverage, which gave me peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing running boards for my Silverado was about balancing style, function, and durability. By considering the style, material, fitment, installation, and extra features, I found a set that improved my truck’s accessibility and looked great. I hope these tips help you find running boards that fit your needs just as well!
Author Profile
-
Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
Latest entries
- September 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 39.5 X 20.25 X 7 Inches Sterilite Storage Bin: My Ultimate Solution for Organized Living!
- September 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Bean Bag with a Washable Cover: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite!
- September 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ferragamo Women’s 53 mm Black Sunglasses: A Perfect Blend of Style and Comfort!
- September 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Funniest Physical Therapy Shirts: Here’s What Made Me Laugh and Feel Great!