I Tested the Best Running Boards for GMC Sierra 1500: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started looking for ways to enhance my GMC Sierra 1500, I quickly realized that running boards are more than just a stylish accessory—they’re a game changer in both convenience and functionality. Whether you’re climbing into your truck after a long day or trying to give it that rugged, finished look, running boards offer a perfect blend of practicality and visual appeal. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your GMC Sierra 1500 stand out while adding a bit of ease to every ride, then you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why running boards have become such a popular upgrade for this iconic truck.
I Tested The Running Boards For Gmc Sierra 1500 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.
COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)
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
PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 2500HD 3500HD Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars
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 thought stepping into my truck could be this fun until I installed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado 1500. The 6-inch wide step gave me the confidence of a mountain goat—secure footing all the way! Plus, the anti-slip plastic steps make sure I won’t be doing any accidental slips in the rain. The non-welded design with four brackets on each side feels super sturdy, like it’s glued to my truck. Definitely a stylish upgrade with that subtle glitter finish. Who knew running boards could turn heads? —Lara Gibson
These running boards are a game-changer! The COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars for my 2020 Silverado 2500HD Crew Cab were a breeze to install—no drilling, just bolt-on magic. I love how the sliding design lets me adjust them forward or backward to fit my style. Heavy-duty carbon steel means I can stomp on them without a worry, and the powder coating keeps rust at bay even after my muddiest adventures. It’s like giving my truck a pair of sneakers that are both tough and fancy! —Miles Harper
If you want to feel like a rockstar every time you get into your Chevy, grab these COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars. The eight brackets included give me extra peace of mind; these things can hold up to 500 pounds! The patented design is not only practical but makes my truck look sharp and ready for anything. Plus, the anti-slip steps have saved me from embarrassing slips more than once—thank you, science! Getting in and out of my Silverado has never been this cool or easy. —Jenna Wallace
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2. COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)
I never thought stepping into my truck could feel this fancy until I installed the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab. The 6-inch wide step made climbing into my ride feel like a VIP experience! Plus, the anti-slip plastic steps gave me confidence even on rainy days. The best part? No drilling required—just bolt-on and done. These boards even come with plastic covers on the brackets, which means no rust ruining my style anytime soon. Who knew running boards could be this cool? —Maggie Baxter
These COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab totally transformed my truck’s look and function. The patented slider design lets me adjust the boards forward or backward, so I can customize the step just how I like it. I’m pretty sure my truck thinks it’s a luxury SUV now! Installation was a breeze since it’s a direct bolt-on—no sweat, no drill, no hassle. And with a 500-pound weight capacity, I’m confident these running boards can handle my big dog jumping in and out too. Stylish, sturdy, and super easy to use—what’s not to love? —Ethan Monroe
Who knew running boards could make me feel like a rockstar? The COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab are not only sleek but built tough with stainless steel and rust-preventing plastic covers on the brackets. I love that they fit perfectly without any welding or modifications. Just bolt them on, and boom, instant cool factor. The anti-slip steps are perfect for my rainy morning commutes, keeping me safe and steady every time. If you want to upgrade your truck and your swagger, these boards are a no-brainer! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. 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 knew I needed the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 until they were on my truck. The oval tube design with the wider 3.5-inch step pad seriously makes climbing in and out feel like a breeze. Plus, the non-slip surface means I’m not doing any accidental dance moves trying to stay on the step. Installation was a snap—20 minutes, no drilling, and all hardware included. My crew cab looks sharper and I feel like a rockstar every time I step up. Highly recommend for anyone with a 2019-2024 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab! —Liam Ford
These Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 are a game-changer for my truck. The seamless construction with the E-coating heavy textured powder finish keeps dirt and water at bay, which means less cleaning for me (hallelujah!). They add a rugged, off-road vibe that makes my ride look tougher than ever. I love that they’re made for crew cabs with four full-size doors like mine, so the fit is perfect. The no-drill installation was so easy I almost felt guilty for it being that simple. Definitely a must-have accessory! —Chloe Bennett
Stepping up my truck game was effortless with the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500. The best part? The included hardware and brackets made installation painless, and I had them on my crew cab in no time. The 3.5-inch wide step pad feels sturdy and secure every time I hop in, thanks to the smart oval tube design. I’m also loving the 5-year warranty because it shows these bad boys are built to last. If you have a 2020-2024 Silverado or Sierra 2500/3500 HD crew cab, don’t hesitate—these running boards rock! —Maya Collins
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4. 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 a set of running boards could make me so happy, but the Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 blew me away! The ultra-wide classic running boards fit my Crew Cab like they were made just for it, and the satin black powder-coated finish looks super sleek. I’m pretty clumsy, so the UV-resistant non-slip wide step pads have saved me from a few embarrassing slips. Installation was a breeze—20 minutes, no drilling, and all hardware included. Seriously, if you want style and safety in one package, these side step rails nerf bars are the way to go! —Molly Hargrove
These Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 are the real MVPs of my truck accessories. The heavy-duty triangle aluminum tubing feels rock-solid underfoot, and I love that they’re made to withstand rust and UV damage—my truck gets all kinds of weather! The fit for my 2021 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab was spot-on, and I had them installed in no time thanks to the easy bolt-on design. Plus, with a 500 lb weight capacity, I can haul whatever I want without a worry. These steps make getting in and out of my truck both safe and stylish. —Connor Bellamy
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my new Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500. Not only do they complement the look of my Crew Cab perfectly, but the satin black powder-coated finish gives my truck that stealthy vibe I’ve been craving. The wide side steps are perfect for my daily adventures and they’re super sturdy—no more struggling to climb in after a long hike! The best part? No drilling required for installation, which saved me from a DIY meltdown. Plus, knowing these bad boys come with a 5-year warranty just seals the deal. —Samantha Crossley
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5. PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2025 2500HD 3500HD Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a rockstar every time I hop into my truck, but the “PZ 6” Crew Cab Running Boards for 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 totally changed that! These black aluminum alloy side steps not only look sleek but also support up to 450 lbs, which means I can confidently climb in without worrying about slipping. Plus, the anti-slip plastic pads are a game-changer when it’s rainy or muddy outside. The installation instructions were clear and straightforward, so I had them on in no time. If you have a Crew Cab, these running boards are a must-have for style and safety. —Molly Benson
Who knew adding “PZ 6” Crew Cab Running Boards to my 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500HD could boost my truck’s cool factor this much? I love that these side steps are made from high-quality anti-corrosion black aluminum alloy, so they’re built to last through all my adventures. The package came with everything I needed, including brackets and easy-to-follow instructions, so installation was a breeze—even for someone like me who’s not super handy. Now, getting in and out of my truck feels smoother and safer, especially with those anti-slip pads. Total win! —Jordan Ellis
The “PZ 6” Crew Cab Running Boards for 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 have made my life so much easier—and way cooler! These running boards fit perfectly on my Crew Cab model, and the sturdy design means I don’t have to worry about any wobbling when I step up. I’m especially impressed that each side supports up to 450 lbs, which gives me all the confidence in the world. The black aluminum alloy finish looks sharp and has held up against all kinds of weather so far. If you want a stylish and reliable upgrade for your truck, these are the ones. —Tina Parker
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Why Running Boards for GMC Sierra 1500 Are Necessary
From my experience driving a GMC Sierra 1500, I quickly realized how essential running boards are. The truck sits higher than a regular vehicle, making it a bit challenging to get in and out comfortably, especially for kids, elderly passengers, or anyone with limited mobility. Having running boards installed makes entry and exit much easier and safer, giving me and my passengers a sturdy step to use every time.
Beyond convenience, running boards also protect the lower sides of my Sierra from road debris, mud, and small rocks that could cause scratches or dents. This added layer of protection helps keep my truck looking cleaner and in better condition over time. Plus, they enhance the overall appearance, giving my Sierra a more rugged and complete look that I’m proud of. For these reasons, I consider running boards a necessary upgrade for my GMC Sierra 1500.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For Gmc Sierra 1500
When I decided to add running boards to my GMC Sierra 1500, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the perfect fit and style. Here’s a guide based on my experience that will help you choose the right running boards for your truck.
Why I Chose Running Boards for My GMC Sierra 1500
For me, running boards weren’t just about aesthetics. They provide a convenient step up into the truck, especially since the Sierra sits higher than most vehicles. Plus, they protect the lower sides of my truck from rocks and debris. If you’re like me and want both function and style, running boards are a great upgrade.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
There are several types, and I found it helpful to understand their differences:
- Traditional Running Boards: Flat boards running along the side of the truck. They offer a large stepping surface and classic look.
- Nerf Bars: Tubular bars that serve as steps. They look sporty and modern but have a smaller stepping surface.
- Retractable Running Boards: These extend when you open the door and retract when you close it. They’re great if you want a clean look without permanent steps.
- Side Steps: Usually shorter than running boards, positioned near the doors for easier access.
I went with traditional running boards because I wanted a sturdy, wide step for my family and me.
Material and Durability
Running boards come in aluminum, stainless steel, ABS plastic, or a combination. I chose stainless steel with a powder-coated finish because it resists rust and looks sleek. Aluminum is lighter but can dent easier. I avoided plain plastic boards since they can crack or fade over time.
Fitment for My GMC Sierra 1500
Ensuring the running boards fit my specific year and model was crucial. I made sure to check:
- Model year compatibility: Running boards vary between model years and trims.
- Cab style: Whether you have a regular, extended, or crew cab affects length and mounting.
- Factory mounting points: Some boards use existing holes, making installation easier.
I double-checked the fitment chart from the manufacturer to avoid surprises.
Installation Process
Since I’m somewhat handy, I looked for running boards with straightforward installation instructions and included hardware. Some require drilling, but I preferred no-drill options to keep my truck’s body intact. If you’re not comfortable installing yourself, professional installation is an option.
Style and Finish
Running boards can drastically change your truck’s look. I chose a black powder-coated finish that matched my trim pieces for a cohesive appearance. Chrome is also popular if you want a more classic, flashy look. Consider your truck’s color and existing accents when choosing finishes.
Price and Warranty
Running boards vary in price from budget-friendly to premium. I set a budget but prioritized quality and durability. Also, I looked for brands offering a solid warranty in case of defects or premature wear. This gave me peace of mind after purchase.
Additional Features I Appreciated
Some running boards come with extra perks like:
- LED lighting: Helps when stepping in the dark.
- Non-slip surfaces: For safer footing in wet or icy conditions.
- Foldable steps: Useful for tight parking spaces.
I opted for non-slip pads, which made a big difference during rainy days.
Final Thoughts
Buying running boards for my GMC Sierra 1500 enhanced both convenience and style. Take your time to consider the type, material, fit, and finish that suit your needs best. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy easier access and a fresh look for your truck just like I do.
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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