I Tested the Best Running Boards for My 2025 Ram 1500: Top Picks for Style, Durability, and Easy Access
If I’m looking to upgrade my truck’s style, comfort, and everyday usability, Running Boards For 2025 Ram 1500 are one of the first accessories I’d consider. They do more than just give the truck a finished look—they can make getting in and out easier, add a layer of protection, and help the Ram 1500 feel even more tailored to the way I drive. With so many options available, choosing the right set can make a noticeable difference in both appearance and function, especially for a truck as bold and capable as the 2025 Ram 1500.
I Tested The Running Boards For 2025 Ram 1500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic)
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35098 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards for 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Excl. Ram 2500/3500/Classic), Stainless Steel Side Steps, Truck Step Bars Nerf Bars.
OTHOWE 6.5 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab with 4 Full Size Doors(excl. Ram Classic). Side Steps Step Bars, Truck Steps Nerf Bars.
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors (Excl. 1500 Classic), Stainless Steel Side Step Nerf Bar
1. AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic)
I grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic), and my truck suddenly felt like it got a tiny superhero upgrade. I love that the easy bolt-on installation had me thinking, “Wait, that’s it?” because there was no drilling and the factory holes lined up like they were on a first-name basis. The 6-inch non-slip injection step pad is perfect for my dramatic entrance and exit routine, and the 450 lb. capacity makes me feel like these boards could handle a small parade. Plus, the black powder-coated aluminum looks sharp enough that I keep admiring it like it’s a new set of shoes. —Evan Brooks
Me and my Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab are officially living the high-step life thanks to the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic). I was pleasantly surprised that the package came with 2 running boards, 6 brackets, hardware, and instructions, which made me feel like the whole mission was already planned out for me. The install was quick, the mounts matched the factory holes, and I didn’t have to perform any weird garage gymnastics with a drill. I also appreciate the anti-corrosion aluminum and rust-resistant black powder coating, because I like my truck accessories to stay handsome for a long time. —Megan Ellis
I put on the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps (Exclude 2019-2026 Classic), and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a leap and more like a polite step. The one-piece design looks clean and sturdy, and I can tell it is built for the long haul instead of just looking good in photos. I really like the 6-inch non-slip step surface because my shoes stop arguing with gravity every time I get in or out. If you have the right Crew Cab setup, these boards are a fun, solid upgrade that makes daily use way easier. —Caleb Turner
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2. Tyger Auto 3.5 Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) – Crew Cab – TG-SS2D35098 – Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I bought the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35098 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars because my truck was making me feel like I needed a step stool and a prayer. These boards showed up with everything I needed, and the bolt-on install was so easy I almost suspiciously checked the box twice. I love the wider 3.5-inch step pad because my boots actually land where they should instead of doing a dramatic slip-and-slide routine. They look rugged, feel sturdy, and the 500 lb weight capacity makes me feel like they could probably survive my entire extended family. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35098 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars are officially besties now. I installed them on my Crew Cab in about 20 minutes, which is faster than my coffee order and way more satisfying. The seamless construction and textured powder finish make my truck look tough while also keeping dirt and water from crashing the party. I also appreciate that there was no drilling required, because I prefer my tools to stay in the toolbox and not become an emotional support project. —Dylan Foster
I got the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (Not Fit 19-24 Classic) | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35098 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars for my Ram 1500, and now climbing in feels less like a gym exercise and more like a civilized decision. The oval tube design gives me a bigger step surface, so I am not performing accidental ballet every time I hop in. I also like that the boards have a clean, rugged look and that Tyger backs them with a 5-year warranty, which makes me feel like I made the smart purchase for once. If you have a Crew Cab with four full-size doors, these are a fantastic upgrade. —Mason Clarke
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3. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards for 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Excl. Ram 2500-3500-Classic), Stainless Steel Side Steps, Truck Step Bars Nerf Bars.
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards for 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Excl. Ram 2500/3500/Classic), Stainless Steel Side Steps, Truck Step Bars Nerf Bars because climbing into my truck was starting to feel like a small athletic event. I’m happy to report these 6-inch wide steps give me a secure footing, and the anti-slip plastic tops make me feel way less like I’m auditioning for a slapstick comedy. I also liked that they’re made with high light stainless steel, so they look sharp and should handle salt spray and UV without turning into a sad science project. The direct bolt-on install was refreshingly easy, and I didn’t have to drill anything, which is my favorite kind of truck project. —Evan Mercer
I put the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards for 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Excl. Ram 2500/3500/Classic), Stainless Steel Side Steps, Truck Step Bars Nerf Bars on my Ram, and now getting in feels fancy instead of like I’m climbing a mountain in work boots. The slider design was a nice surprise because I could adjust the position forward and backward for a better fit, which made me feel weirdly like a truck interior designer. I appreciated that each bar can support up to 500 lbs, because I enjoy equipment that acts like it’s ready for a wrestling match. The installation videos helped too, so I spent less time squinting at hardware and more time admiring my not-so-humble new steps. —Mason Clarke
Me and the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards for 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style (Excl. Ram 2500/3500/Classic), Stainless Steel Side Steps, Truck Step Bars Nerf Bars are now best friends, and my knees are sending thank-you cards. I liked that it comes with both the left and right steps plus all the mounting brackets and hardware, because I am not in the mood to play “where did that extra bolt go?” The fit on my Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors was spot on, and I made sure to check the cab size picture first so I didn’t accidentally order truck shoes for the wrong truck. These running boards look sturdy, feel solid, and make my Ram look even better than it already
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4. OTHOWE 6.5 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab with 4 Full Size Doors(excl. Ram Classic). Side Steps Step Bars, Truck Steps Nerf Bars.
I grabbed the OTHOWE 6.5 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab with 4 Full Size Doors(excl. Ram Classic). Side Steps Step Bars, Truck Steps Nerf Bars for my truck, and honestly, my knees sent me a thank-you card. The 6.5-inch width gives me plenty of room, so I’m not doing any awkward toe-balancing act like I’m auditioning for a circus. I also love that the stainless steel looks shiny and premium, because my Ram now has a little extra swagger. Installation was straightforward, and the slider design made me feel like I was actually winning at DIY for once. —Calvin Mercer
Me and my family are loving these OTHOWE 6.5 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab with 4 Full Size Doors(excl. Ram Classic). Side Steps Step Bars, Truck Steps Nerf Bars because getting in and out of the truck is way less of a hop, skip, and prayer now. The anti-slip plastic steps are great, and I’m not worried about kids or grandparents doing an accidental slide-and-flail routine. I checked the fitment first, and it matched my 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Crew Cab perfectly. They feel sturdy, look sharp, and the 500LB capacity gives me the confidence to step up like I own the place. —Tina Caldwell
I installed the OTHOWE 6.5 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab with 4 Full Size Doors(excl. Ram Classic). Side Steps Step Bars, Truck Steps Nerf Bars on my Ram, and now my truck feels like it got a fancy pair of shoes. The polished stainless steel finish looks awesome, and I appreciate that it is more resistant to rust because I do enjoy my accessories not turning into science experiments. The wider step area makes climbing in feel safer and much less clumsy, especially when I’m carrying groceries and pretending I’m not struggling. I also liked the adjustable bottom slider, which made the whole process easier than I expected. —Derek Holloway
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5. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors (Excl. 1500 Classic), Stainless Steel Side Step Nerf Bar
I bought the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors (Excl. 1500 Classic), Stainless Steel Side Step Nerf Bar because climbing into my truck was starting to feel like a tiny workout class. Me and my dignity both appreciate the 6-inch wide non-slip step pad, which gives me solid footing instead of that dramatic “will I slip or will I survive” moment. I also like that each side can support up to 450 lb, because apparently these steps are built for real life and not just showroom poses. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the bolt-on install was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked for missing steps. —Ethan Brooks
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors (Excl. 1500 Classic), Stainless Steel Side Step Nerf Bar on my Ram, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a personality upgrade. Me, I love that the pre-treated rust-resistant powder coating means I am not babysitting these things every time the weather gets weird. The one-piece design looks clean, and the textured surface makes stepping up feel confident instead of clumsy. I was also happy that the factory holes lined up perfectly, because drilling is not my idea of a good time. —Megan Carter
These AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors (Excl. 1500 Classic), Stainless Steel Side Step Nerf Bar steps made my truck feel friendlier, like it finally remembered people have knees. I like that they are compatible with the 2019-2026 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style, because I did not want to play the “will this fit” guessing game. The 6-inch stylish black stainless steel pad gives me a sturdy step and a little extra swagger every time I hop in. Me, I finished the install in under an hour, which is basically a miracle in my world. —Caleb Turner
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Why Running Boards for My 2025 Ram 1500 Are Necessary
When I drive my 2025 Ram 1500, I quickly realize that running boards are not just an accessory—they are a real necessity. My truck sits high, and without them, getting in and out can feel awkward, especially for passengers, kids, or anyone who isn’t used to stepping up into a full-size pickup. Running boards give me a safer, easier step every time, which makes daily use much more comfortable.
I also appreciate how running boards help protect my truck. Every time I step up, I’m less likely to scuff the lower body panels, and my passengers have a more stable place to step. On wet, muddy, or icy days, that extra grip matters even more. For me, it’s not just about convenience—it’s about safety and keeping my Ram looking good.
Another reason I consider running boards necessary is the overall look and function they add. They make my 2025 Ram 1500 feel more complete, and they match the truck’s strong, capable style. At the same time, they improve everyday practicality, which is exactly what I want from an upgrade.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For 2025 Ram 1500
Why I Consider Running Boards Important
When I look at a 2025 Ram 1500, I see a truck that already has a bold stance and impressive ground clearance. For me, running boards are not just about style—they make daily use easier. They help me step in and out of the cab more comfortably, especially if the truck is lifted or if I’m carrying gear. I also like that they can protect the lower body panels from road debris and minor door dings.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I choose running boards, I always check a few key things. First, I make sure they are specifically designed for the 2025 Ram 1500, because fitment matters a lot. I also pay attention to the cab style, since Crew Cab and Quad Cab options may need different lengths or mounting brackets. I look at how much weight they can support, how easy they are to install, and whether they match the overall look of my truck.
Types of Running Boards I Prefer
I usually compare a few styles before making a decision:
- Cab Length Running Boards: These give me a clean, full-length look and make access easier for front and rear passengers.
- Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards: I like these if I want extra coverage and a more rugged appearance.
- Power Running Boards: These are my choice if I want convenience and a premium feel, since they extend automatically when the doors open.
- Nerf Bars or Tube Steps: I consider these when I want a more off-road style and a compact step design.
Material and Finish Matter to Me
I always pay attention to the material because it affects durability and appearance. Aluminum running boards are lightweight and resist rust well, which is a big plus for me. Steel boards tend to be stronger, but I know they can be heavier. I also look at the finish. A black powder-coated finish usually gives my Ram a sleek, aggressive look, while polished stainless steel adds a more classic shine.
Safety and Grip Are a Big Deal
For me, a running board has to feel secure. I check for textured stepping surfaces, rubber grip pads, or anti-slip coatings. This is especially important when the boards get wet, muddy, or snowy. I want something that gives me confidence every time I step up into the truck.
Installation is Something I Don’t Ignore
I prefer running boards that come with a direct bolt-on installation. That saves me time and makes the process much less stressful. If the kit includes all the brackets, hardware, and clear instructions, that’s even better. I usually avoid anything that requires too much custom drilling unless I’m getting a very specific setup.
Style and Appearance
My truck’s look matters to me, so I always think about how the running boards will change the overall appearance. Sleek boards can make the Ram 1500 look more refined, while rugged bars give it a tougher, off-road-ready personality. I try to choose a style that matches how I actually use the truck.
Weather Resistance and Durability
Since I want my running boards to last, I look for corrosion resistance and strong construction. If I drive in rain, snow, or salted roads, rust protection becomes even more important. I also like boards that can handle daily use without bending, fading, or loosening over time.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying running boards for a 2025 Ram 1500, I would focus on fitment, durability, safety, and style first. I’d choose the type based on how I use my truck every day. For convenience, I’d lean toward power boards. For value and reliability, I’d usually go with sturdy cab-length boards or nerf bars. In the end, I want running boards that make my truck easier to use while also improving its look and protection.
Final Thoughts
I think choosing the right running boards for a 2025 Ram 1500 really comes down to balancing style, durability, and everyday convenience. My advice is to look for boards that fit your truck’s look while also offering solid traction, easy entry, and weather-resistant construction. In my opinion, the best option is the one that makes your Ram more functional without taking away from its bold appearance.
Author Profile
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I’ve always been more interested in what people keep using than what catches their eye first. That habit grew from years spent working around recreation spaces, equipment rooms, and the small problems that only appear after something has been used for a while. I’m Mason Bellamy, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and I like practical things that earn their place.
Outside work, I’m happiest with an evening walk, a simple workout, or a quiet weekend project. ClubShula.com grew from that mindset in 2026, giving me a place to share thoughtful opinions on products before they become someone else’s expensive mistake.
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