Side Steps - Yay or Nay?

[Markubis]

I got this style because it allows me to step up into the cab easily but doesn't get in the way when i exit the cab.

https://realtruck.com/p/havoc-hs2-black-hoop-steps/v/ford/ranger/2020/

Plus they provide some side protection from car doors swinging out into my truvvk.

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[D Fresh]

Nay! I have them ONLY because they came with the truck. I don't use them to get out of the truck and they're constantly hitting the back of my legs. I would prefer sliders which I will be getting on my Bronco. Some give you just enough to step on but offer better protection when off road.

Same for me.

Currently debating sliders vs powersteps for the Ranger.

Wife and kids would like the powersteps I think. And they seem to be more useful to me while adding sill protection while driving.

The mild protection they offer would deteriorate quickly if faced with the big rocks though.

 

[AzScorpion]

Same for me.

Currently debating sliders vs powersteps for the Ranger.

Wife and kids would like the powersteps I think. And they seem to be more useful to me while adding sill protection while driving.

The mild protection they offer would deteriorate quickly if faced with the big rocks though.

The power steps are nice and you can get them in sliders too. When we were at the off road show back in December there was a company called Rock Slide Engineering that had power step sliders and they were around $1,500. The Shrockworks sliders are the ones I like the best. You can add the tread plate and use it as a step. If you haven't already seen it here's a good thread on them with a picture where you can fit your foot on them easily on post #35.

https://www.ranger5g.com/forum/threads/shrockworks-rock-sliders-on-site-and-on-sale.4045/

 

[D Fresh]

The power steps are nice and you can get them in sliders too. When we were at the off road show back in December there was a company called Rock Slide Engineering that had power step sliders and they were around $1,500. The Shrockworks sliders are the ones I like the best. You can add the tread plate and use it as a step. If you haven't already seen it here's a good thread on them with a picture where you can fit your foot on them easily on post #35.

https://www.ranger5g.com/forum/threads/shrockworks-rock-sliders-on-site-and-on-sale.4045/

Definately been eyeballing the Shrokworks sliders, and their winch mount, and their skids.

Did not know about powered sliders though.

Thanks, now I off exploring in my Google machine!

 

[HenryMac]

So Is it an option worthy of it's cost for looks and function or just looks?

factory running boards are not worth the cost IMO.

Others have mentioned rock sliders.

The factory running boards attach to the sheet metal body.

Rock sliders, or should I say quality rock sliders, attach to the frame. And they are very strong and protect the body.

I installed Shrockworks Rock Sliders on our Ranger. They tuck up nicely to the body and you have the option of getting dimpled step plates.

More Here: Installation of Shrockworks Rock Sliders

 

[AzScorpion]

Definately been eyeballing the Shrokworks sliders, and their winch mount, and their skids.

Did not know about powered sliders though.

Thanks, now I off exploring in my Google machine!

Rock Slide Engineering makes them for Jeeps but said they were going to have them for the Bronco once it came out, not sure about the Ranger.

 

[D Fresh]

Rock Slide Engineering makes them for Jeeps but said they were going to have them for the Bronco once it came out, not sure about the Ranger.

Yep, site shows Jeep applications only. Makes sense they'll offer some for the Bronco. Aftermarket support for the Bronco is going to be great.

Back to my original internal debate I guess.

 

[AuburnRanger]

I like ones that tuck tight in to the body. The Shrockworks sliders aren’t really meant to be side steps but they do somewhat function as steps. Added benefit is that they hide the ugly seam weld. I have the Go Rhino RB20s and I like that they sit close to the body a stick out a bit. It provides rock protection and also some level of door ding protection. Makes a great platform for accessing the roof as well.

 

[OxyGenIII]

Yay. I like the look of the factory ones but they hang too low for offroading. Just got my rock sliders yesterday but need to install them once I confirm I have all the hardware. Seems I might be missing a couple powdercoated brackets but not sure. Gonna climb under the truck soon.

 

[NickTheEnforcer]

pro step camp. i will have to take a pic. took me some time to find ones i like tht looked good on the truck..

 

[Trigganometry]

There is more than one question to ask yourself here. The factory ones mount to the body of the truck so limited protection especially on off-road use. Rock sliders for the most part attach to the frame so you could potentially lift the truck with them.

Then it comes down to style. Many shapes, sizes and some with steps. Really comes down to your wallet and how much protection you’re looking for.

Me, I have factory ones. It was part of the package when I bought it. They do what I need for them so fits my needs.

 

[Viscerol]

I have decided to take mine off. I don’t use them as I’m 6’1”, and even a modest lift I’ll be ok. The oem’s kinda look like an afterthought to me.

I am thinking of getting these just for rock chip protection from the road when I put in some sliders. I have those rewards burning a hole in my account.

https://accessories.ford.com/plate-door-scuff-12380.html#2019/Ranger

 

[NH BOY]

I think I have narrowed down my search on the Ranger I would like but the only option I am torn on are sidesteps. I "think" I like the look of them on the Ranger but do they get in the way? I already know I do not need them at my height but in my current Tacoma, I do not have side steps, purposely. When I tried some models with the side steps, they actually got in the way and made it awkward to get in.

So Is it an option worthy of it's cost for looks and function or just looks?

I am over 6 feet tall but have the running boards because I love the look of them - plus much shorter wife would never be able to make that first step up without them.

 

[r1ch999999]

I got them, and I use them. Hell, I'm 6'1" and I use them to avoid sliding over the seat and wearing out the front cushion. I also have little kids, so it helps them, and my dogs, get in the back.

 

[troutspinner]

Thank you for the replies guys. You did not help! LOL I kid, I kid! I was hoping all would say yes or no but it is definitely a personal choice.

You guy have however made me realize that those steps should not be a sticking point for me when buying. If the truck I find has them, great and if I end up not liking them, take them off. If the truck I find does not have them, maybe have them throw them in to sweeten a deal. . Or if I end up wanting some, just go aftermarket. Always good to have choices.

Thanks again!

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