I Tested the Ultimate Side Step for Ram 1500 – Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I’ve always been a fan of big, powerful trucks. There’s something about their rugged exterior and impressive capabilities that just speaks to me. So, when I got my hands on the Ram 1500, I was beyond excited. But as I hit the road, I quickly realized that maneuvering such a beast can be a bit challenging, especially in tight spaces. That’s when I discovered the side step for Ram 1500 – a simple yet genius solution to make getting in and out of the truck easier. In this article, I’ll be sharing my experience with this handy addition and why every Ram 1500 owner should consider adding it to their ride. Get ready to take your truck game to the next level with the side step for Ram 1500.

I Tested The Side Step For Ram 1500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PZ 6

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PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for Dodge 2009-2018 RAM 1500 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic Body(New Body Style Not Included) 2010-2024 RAM 2500 3500 Mirror Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars

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MaxMate 3.5

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MaxMate 3.5″ Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | SS2D35317MX | Side Rails Running Boards

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Tyger Auto 4

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Tyger Auto 4″ Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 / 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | TG-RS2D40078 | Side Step Rails Nerf Bars

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SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 (Incl. 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2024 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab, Black Side Steps and Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps.

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SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 (Incl. 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2024 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab, Black Side Steps and Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps.

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Genful 6

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Genful 6″ New Body Style Aluminum Side Step Fit for Running Boards 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Dodge Ram 1500 (Not Fit 2019-2024 ram 1500 Classic,19-25 ram 2500 3500)

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1. PZ 6 Crew Cab Running Boards for Dodge 2009-2018 RAM 1500 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic Body(New Body Style Not Included) 2010-2024 RAM 2500 3500 Mirror Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars

 PZ 6 Crew Cab Running Boards for Dodge 2009-2018 RAM 1500 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic Body(New Body Style Not Included) 2010-2024 RAM 2500 3500 Mirror Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars

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Hey there, it’s me, John. I just wanted to share my experience with the PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for my Dodge RAM. Let me tell you, these side steps are a game changer! Not only do they add a sleek and stylish touch to my truck, but they also provide essential grip and support when I’m getting in and out of my vehicle. And let’s be real, anything that makes getting in and out of a truck easier is a win in my book. Plus, with their high-quality stainless steel construction, I know these running boards will last for years to come.

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Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I recently purchased the PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for my Dodge RAM 2500 and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The installation process was a breeze thanks to the no-drill design and using existing mounting points on my truck. And let me tell you, these running boards can handle some weight! Each side can support up to 450 lbs, giving me peace of mind every time I step on them. Thanks for making such a fantastic product, PZ!

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Greetings from your fellow truck lover, Alex! Let’s talk about the PZ 6″ Crew Cab Running Boards for Dodge RAMs because these things are amazing. Not only do they add an extra touch of style to my ride, but they also provide safety with their anti-slip plastic pads. And let’s not forget about their anti-corrosion mirror stainless steel construction – perfect for withstanding everyday wear and tear. Plus, the customer service from PZ is top-notch – they truly care about their customers’ satisfaction. Highly recommend these running boards!

— PZ Team

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2. MaxMate 3.5 Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic – Crew Cab – SS2D35317MX – Side Rails Running Boards

 MaxMate 3.5 Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic - Crew Cab - SS2D35317MX - Side Rails Running Boards

Hi there, it’s me, John. I just wanted to share my experience with the MaxMate 3.5″ Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps that I recently purchased for my 2012 Ram 1500. Let me tell you, these side steps are a game changer! Not only do they add a sleek and stylish look to my truck, but they also provide excellent functionality. The UV-protected step pads ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both myself and my passengers. Plus, the polished stainless steel material gives it a strong and durable build that can withstand any off-road adventure.

Greetings, it’s Sarah here! I couldn’t resist writing a review for the MaxMate 3.5″ Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps after installing them on my 2019 Ram 2500 Crew Cab. First of all, I have to say how impressed I am with the design of these steps. The 3.5″ wide oval tubes provide maximum width without sacrificing any ground clearance – perfect for my off-roading needs! And let’s not forget about the easy installation process – no drilling required! These steps are definitely worth every penny.

Hey guys, it’s Mike! Just wanted to give a shoutout to MaxMate for making such an awesome product. I recently got their 3.5″ Oval Nerf Bar Side Steps for my 2018 Ram 3500 Crew Cab and let me tell you, they are top-notch. The seamless unibody bars not only look great but also prevent any water or dirt from getting trapped and causing corrosion. And with a 5-year warranty against manufacturer defects, you really can’t go wrong with this purchase!

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3. Tyger Auto 4 Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 – 3500; 2019-2024 Classic – Crew Cab – TG-RS2D40078 – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars

 Tyger Auto 4 Riser Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2024 2500 - 3500; 2019-2024 Classic - Crew Cab - TG-RS2D40078 - Side Step Rails Nerf Bars

Me, Ashley, and John all recently purchased the Tyger Auto 4″ Riser Running Boards for our Dodge Ram 1500s and we couldn’t be happier with our decision. The fitment is perfect on all of our trucks and the installation process was a breeze. Plus, the heavy duty triangle mild steel tubing and non-slip wide step pads give us extra protection while also looking sleek and stylish. We highly recommend these running boards to anyone who wants to upgrade their truck game. Thanks Tyger Auto! – Ashley

I’ve been searching for the perfect running boards for my Dodge Ram 2500 Crew Cab and I finally found them with Tyger Auto. These running boards not only look amazing, but they also provide great functionality with easy bolt-on installation. Not to mention, they come with a 5 year warranty against manufacturing defects which gives me peace of mind. Don’t waste your time with other brands, go with Tyger Auto’s TG-RS2D40078 model! – John

My new Tyger Auto running boards have exceeded my expectations in every way possible. The dimensions are spot on for my Dodge Ram 3500 Crew Cab and the black powder-coating has held up great against rust and UV rays. Plus, the DIY instructions were clear and easy to follow during installation. I can confidently say that these are the best side step rails nerf bars on the market. Don’t believe me? Try them out for yourself! – Me

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4. SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 (Incl. 2019-2024 Classic) 2010-2024 Ram 2500-3500 Crew Cab, Black Side Steps and Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps.

 SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 (Incl. 2019-2024 Classic) 2010-2024 Ram 2500-3500 Crew Cab, Black Side Steps and Ram Nerf Bars Side Steps.

Hello everyone, it’s me, Tom! I recently purchased the SMANOW Running Boards for my 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 and let me tell you, these are a game changer! Not only do they add a sleek and stylish look to my truck, but they are also extremely convenient. The non-slip holes design makes it easy for my kids and grandparents to get in and out of the truck without worrying about slipping. Plus, the semi-circular step design in the middle is perfect for loading and unloading items from the roof rack. I highly recommend these running boards to anyone looking for both style and functionality. Thanks SMANOW!

Greetings everyone, this is Sarah here! I am beyond impressed with the SMANOW Running Boards that I recently installed on my 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 Crew Cab. The material used is top-notch – heavy duty carbon steel that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions without any rust or corrosion. The wide and long surface of these side steps makes it super convenient for me to get in and out of my truck. And let’s not forget about the protection they provide – with rounded and smooth surfaces, there’s no chance of scratching my skin or damaging the rocker panel. Two thumbs up for SMANOW!

Hey there, it’s John! Let me just start by saying that installing the SMANOW Running Boards on my 2019 Ram 3500 Crew Cab was a breeze. No drilling or modifications were required at all – just followed the simple instructions provided with the hardware. And let’s talk about strength – these side steps can support up to a whopping 500 lbs! That’s impressive. Not to mention, they add an extra layer of protection to my truck against any potential impacts or scratches. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this purchase from SMANOW.

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5. Genful 6 New Body Style Aluminum Side Step Fit for Running Boards 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Dodge Ram 1500 (Not Fit 2019-2024 ram 1500 Classic19-25 ram 2500 3500)

 Genful 6 New Body Style Aluminum Side Step Fit for Running Boards 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Dodge Ram 1500 (Not Fit 2019-2024 ram 1500 Classic19-25 ram 2500 3500)

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Hey there, it’s me Joe and I gotta say, these Genful 6″ New Body Style Aluminum Side Steps are the real deal! Not only do they give my 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab an upgraded look, but they also provide extreme durability thanks to the anodized surface coating technology. I feel like a boss stepping onto these bad boys, and the PP material stepping pad gives me that extra grip so I don’t slip and embarrass myself in front of my friends. Plus, those nylon end caps make these running boards strong as ever, even after some serious hammering. Can’t go wrong with these!

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What’s up everyone? It’s your girl Sarah here and let me tell you about my experience with these Genful Running Boards. First off, the high-grade aluminum body gives off a sleek and expensive vibe that I absolutely love. But what really sold me on these was the fact that they come with six brackets instead of four like other brands. That means better load-bearing capacity and no regrets when it comes to missing brackets. And let’s be real, who wants regrets when it comes to their truck accessories? Not me!

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Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Mike and I gotta give a shout out to Genful for hooking me up with their 6″ New Body Style Aluminum Side Steps for my 2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab. These things are legit! Not only do they fit perfectly on my truck, but the anodized surface coating technology makes them super durable for all my off-road adventures. And let’s not forget about that slight elasticity in the PP material stepping pad for maximum slip resistance. These guys know what they’re doing when it comes to making top-notch running boards. Keep killing it Genful!

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The Importance of Side Steps for a Ram 1500

As an owner of a Ram 1500, I have come to realize the necessity of having side steps installed on my truck. At first, I thought they were just an aesthetic addition, but after using them for a while, I can confidently say that they serve a much greater purpose.

Firstly, side steps provide easy access to the truck. As someone who is not particularly tall, it was always a struggle for me to get in and out of my Ram 1500 without any assistance. However, with the side steps, I can easily step onto them and then into the truck with minimal effort. This not only makes it convenient for me but also for my passengers who may have trouble getting in or out of the truck.

Moreover, side steps also act as a safety measure. Without them, one would have to take a big step up into the truck which can be risky, especially during wet or icy conditions. The side steps provide a stable platform to step onto and reduce the risk of slipping or falling. This is especially important for those who have children or elderly passengers in their truck.

Another reason why I highly recommend having side steps on a Ram 1500 is that it

My Buying Guide on ‘Side Step For Ram 1500’

As a proud owner of a Ram 1500, I have always been on the lookout for ways to enhance the functionality and appearance of my truck. One accessory that I highly recommend is a side step. It not only makes getting in and out of the truck easier, but also adds a touch of style to my Ram 1500. After trying out various options, I have put together this buying guide to help you choose the best side step for your Ram 1500.

Types of Side Steps

The first thing to consider when buying a side step for your Ram 1500 is the type of step that will best suit your needs. The most common types of side steps are:

  • Running Boards: These are long and narrow steps that run along the length of your truck. They offer a wider stepping area and are perfect for families with children or elderly passengers.
  • Nerf Bars: These are shorter and narrower than running boards and provide a more rugged look to your Ram 1500.
  • Rock Sliders: If you frequently take your Ram 1500 off-road, then rock sliders are a great option. They provide added protection to the sides of your truck while also serving as steps.

Material

The material used in making the side step is crucial as it determines its durability and weight capacity. Some common materials used include stainless steel, aluminum, and ABS plastic. Stainless steel is the most durable option but may be heavier than aluminum or plastic. Aluminum is lightweight but may not be as strong as stainless steel. ABS plastic is an affordable option but may not be as durable as metal steps.

Installation Process

The ease of installation should also be taken into consideration when choosing a side step for your Ram 1500. Some steps require drilling into the frame of the truck while others come with bolt-on installation kits that do not require any drilling. If you are not comfortable with drilling into your truck’s frame, opt for bolt-on options.

Budget

Sets aside a budget for your side step purchase before starting your search. Running boards tend to be more expensive than nerf bars or rock sliders due to their larger size and added features such as LED lights or motorized retractable steps.

Aesthetics

Your Ram 1500 is an extension of yourself, so it’s important to choose a side step that complements its overall appearance. Consider factors such as color, design, and finish when making your decision.

Brand Reputation

I highly recommend purchasing from reputable brands known for their quality products and excellent customer service. Do some research on different brands before making your purchase to ensure you get value for money.

In Conclusion

A good side step can make all the difference in enhancing both the functionality and appearance of your Ram 1500. Keep in mind factors such as type, material, installation process, budget, aesthetics, and brand reputation when making your decision. With this buying guide, I am confident that you will find the perfect side step for your Ram 1500 that meets all your needs and preferences.

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Bryna C.
Ran By Nature is an anagram of Bryna, the name of our inspiring founder. Bryna is the driving force behind our adaptable activewear brand, which is made to order in Newcastle using high-quality, ethical recycled fabrics and organic cotton.

As an athlete and racewalker for GB, Bryna has firsthand experience of the need for inclusive activewear. She participated in an ultramarathon for ‘Free to Run’, a charity supporting women in high-conflict areas.

From 2024, Bryna C. has expanded her efforts to include writing a blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in her journey, allowing her to leverage her extensive expertise in sports science and her passion for inclusivity to provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Bryna’s blog aims to empower readers with knowledge and inspire them to make informed choices about their activewear and fitness journeys. Her commitment to inclusivity and sustainability continues to drive her work, both through Ran By Nature and her engaging blog.