Finding the Best Running Boards for Silverado 1500 & 2500hd is not an easy task. Before buying, you need to consider several factors. Most of the time, people don’t know what to buy.
On the other hand, there are plenty of products and brands in the market. So, it is easy to get lost among those products and brands.
To help you with this issue, in this article, we will talk about the running boards for Silverado 1500 and 2500hd.
But, first, what is a running board?
A running board is a support platform that is located near the vehicle’s doors.
Main purpose of these running boards is to help the passengers board and leave the vehicle without any trouble.
Why is the Best Running Board for Chevy Silverado 1500/2500hd?
Those who are familiar with TIGER Auto know that it is one of the most popular brands when it comes to producing running boards.
They have branches in the USA and Canada. Since 2013, they manufacture aftermarket auto parts for various types of vehicles.
So, if you plan to buy a running board, choose TIGER Auto. Still not convinced?
Wait, let’s explain it a little bit more.
TYGER Auto-running boards are made from high-quality materials. They are highly durable, and OEM quality is guaranteed.
For a good running board, high durability is a must-have quality. Moreover, these running boards come in various styles and sizes.
Top 10 Best Running Boards for Silverado 1500 & 2500hd Crew Cab
01. TIGER Auto Running Board TG-SS2C35068 – Best for 2019 – 2022 Chevy Silverado Models
Highlighted Features
- Oval tube design
- Compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado models
- 5″ step pad
- OEM quality material
- Anti-slip qualities
When we talk about the TIGER Auto running boards, the first thing that comes to mind is, perfection.
As mentioned above, they are one of the best running board manufacturers in the world.
For your Chevy Silverado, the TIGER Auto Running Board TG-SS2C35068 will give you the stylish look that you always wanted.
Apart from the stylish look, they made these running boards with powder-coated mild steel; therefore, high durability and a long-life span are guaranteed.
TIGER Auto Running Board TG-SS2C35068 exceeds the OEM standard in every way possible.
Besides, TIGER Auto Running Board TG-SS2C35068 has a higher resistance level to rust, and UV. So, more life span.
And the installation process is straightforward, you will be able to install the running board in 30 minutes; you don’t need any professional help for this one.
Also, this model has a 3.5″ wider step pad. So, boarding and leaving have never been easier. TIGER Auto running boards are considered the best running boards for Chevy Silverado 1500
What We like
- Highly durable
- Easy Installation
- Higher Resistance to rust and UV
What We Don’t Like
- Only fit for Crew Cabs that have four full-size doors
02. TAC 5″ Side Steps Fit Running Board – Best Appearance nerf bars for chevy silverado
Highlighted Features
- UV resistant
- 5″ step pad
- OEM quality material
- A non-slippery surface
- Accurate CNC bending
TAC is a North American aftermarket manufacturer. They have more than 20-year of experience in the field.
We are happy to say that they designed this TAC 5″ Side Steps Fit Running Board with their knowledge and experience.
Most people consider this TAC 5″ Side Steps Fit as the best 2022 nerf bars for chevy silverado 1500 crew cab.
With the perfect fit for the 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado model, this running board is made from stainless steel.
When it comes to appearance, this TAC 5″ Side Steps Fit Running Board surpasses most of the other models in the market.
Moreover, the use of OEM quality materials makes this running board highly durable. With a 5″ non-slip stepping pad and UV resistance ability, this model is comfortable for its users.
Installation is a no-nonsense process that can be completed within 20-30 minutes. If you ever completed a bolt-on installation, you probably know that.
Also, Tac 5″ offers you two awesome designs. You can choose the oval-straight design or oval bend design. So, make sure to choose accordingly.
What We Like
- Compatible with 2019 – 2022 Chevy Silverado models
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Large step pad for boarding and leaving
What We Don’t Like
- None
03. Comnova 6″ Running Board – Best for Handling Heavy Weights
Highlighted Features
- Heavy-duty Carbon Steel design
- 6″ step pad
- 500 lbs weight capacity
- A non-slippery surface
- Light-weighted
If you are looking for a much larger step pad with an anti-slip plastic surface, Comnova 6″ Running Board is the perfect option for you.
Because of the heavy-duty carbon steel design, you don’t need to worry about corrosion and rust. Also, it can hold up to 500 lbs without any trouble.
Comnova 6″ Running Board only weighs around 5.6 ounces, and it is one of the admiring features of this model.
You don’t need to spend hours installing this mode. Mount it and then bolt it on the running board.
Furthermore, you can adjust the forward and backward positions of the running board. So, better customization for you.
Also, for this Comnova 6″ Running Board no welding is necessary. Eventually, you can save a lot of money and time.
This helps immensely in the installation process. Besides, this anti-slip plastic running board comes with affordable prices.
Also, this is one of the best running boards for 2020 Silverado crew cab.
What We Like
- Compatible with 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado models
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Safe access for the whole family
What We Don’t Like
- Only fit for Crew Cabs that have four full-size doors
04. Go Rhino Running Board 69404887T RB20 – Best Running Board for Off-Road Driving
Highlighted Features
- Alloy steel design
- Protective Bedliner Coating
- Increased ground clearance
- 5″ step pad
- Anti-Corrosive qualities
Since 1975, Go Rhino has manufactured aftermarket automotive parts for various vehicles. They are popular for producing slimmer designs.
You can expect the same from the Go Rhino Running Board. Because of this smooth design, your Chevy Silverado will have more ground clearance; Eventually, this feature will come in handy while off-road driving.
Apart from that, this Go Rhino Running Board has a 5.5″ step pad made from Alloy Steel; So, there is no need to worry about corrosion and rust.
Besides, the protective Bedliner coating will protect the running board further.
“For some models, Go Rhino offers protective Bedliner coating or powder-coated finish. While ordering, you can choose any one of them.”
The installation process is straightforward, and no drilling is required; You won’t be needing any professional support.
This way, you can save some bucks. If you enjoy off-road driving, this Go Rhino Running Board is the best choice.
With its increased ground clearance, you can drive the Chevy Silverado without any concerns.
What We Like
- Perfect for off-road driving
- Long lifespan
- Easy installation with no drilling
What We Don’t Like
- None
05. APS Drop Steps Board – Unique Aluminum Design
Highlighted Features
- Aluminum black design
- Powder-coated finish
- Unique drops step pads
- Patented pocket style
- Anti-Corrosive protection
If you are looking for a unique and simple running board, the APS Drop Steps Board is perfect for you. They are popular for their simplicity.
The APS team was able to produce a patented edge-to-edge running board that can support up to 300 lbs.
Besides, APS Drop Steps Board is made from aluminum and has anti-corrosive features. Because of the above features, this running board has a long-life span.
Because of that, most people consider these best running boards for 2020 Silverado crew cab.
Also, another thing that makes this APS Drop Steps Board special is its square tube drop step pads.
The exterior design is equipped with a black powder-coated finish. It will give your Chevy Silverado an aggressive and tough look.
Installation is easy to handle and comes with DIY instructions manual. You can install the APS Drop Steps Board by yourself, compatible with 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado models.
With a simple and reliable design, APS Drop Steps Boards are a much better choice for your Chevy Silverado.
What We Like
- Can support up to 300 lbs
- Better fuel economy
- DIY instructions manual
What We Don’t Like
- Not a perfect fit for off-road driving
06. HD Ridez 4″ Running Board – Customizable Design for Your Chevy Silverado
Highlighted Features
- Aluminum and alloy steel design
- Bolt-on installation
- Anti-slip protection
- Highly durable
- DIY installation process
HD Ridez is a brand that only sells running boards. We can put them on our list without any hesitation. Over the years, they have mastered the art of producing running boards to a great extent.
With solid aluminum construction and anti-corrosive features, this HD Ridez 4″ Running Board can support up to 330 lbs easily.
Also, its 4″ anti- slippery step pad will ensure the safety of the passengers.
Moreover, the exterior design is a combination of aluminum and alloy steel. Therefore, this HD Ridez 4″ Running Board is highly durable.
When it comes to installation, you can install this running board easily. Quick and easy bolt-on DIY installation.
Also, this model is lighter compared to other models in the market.
If you are looking for a brand that only produces a running board and has a highly durable design, this HD Ridez 4″ Running Board is the best choice for you.
What We Like
- Can support up to 300 lbs
- Highly resistant to corrosion and rust
- Affordable compared to other models
What We Don’t Like
- No instruction manual
07. OEDRO 6.5″ Running Board – Most Convenient Running Board for Chevy Silverado
Highlighted Features
- Aluminum alloy stainless steel
- Bolt-on installation
- 5″ step pad
- Powder-coated finish
- Resistance to rust
With a 6.5 wide step pad and 450 lbs weight capacity, these OEDRO 6.5″ Running Boards are more comfortable and safer for their users.
Compatible with 2007 – 2018 Chevy Silverado models; while the main design is made from aluminum alloy, OEDOR uses stamped stainless steel for this 6.5″ step pad.
Because of this material, OEDRO 6.5″ Running Board has a highly durable design and long-life span. The unique powder-coated finish makes this model highly resistant to rust.
When we talk about the exterior design, its combination of perfectly divisional canals and blind roads prevent water accumulation and skidding.
The installation process is quick and easy. No drilling or cutting is required and will save you lots of money and time.
When we talk about the OEDRO 6.5″ Running Board, we cannot ignore its 6.5″ step pad.
Most people use the OEDRO Running Board because of this. With a 6.5″ step pad, you will get maximum safety and an easy boarding process.
What We Like
- Can support up to 450 lbs
- Much larger step pad compared to other models
- Prevent water accumulation
What We Don’t Like
- None
08. ONINE Chrome 6″ Running Board – Heavy Duty Running Board for Chevy Silverado
Highlighted Features
- Aluminum stainless steel design
- Mirror polished exterior
- UV resistant non-slippery step pad
- Adjustable step pad
- Highly durable
ONINE is one of the leading companies in the world for manufacturing running boards. They are famous for producing heavy-duty running boards.
You can expect the same with this ONINE Chrome 6″ Running Board.
With an aluminum mirror-polished exterior design and UV-resistant anti-slip step pad, this ONINE Chrome 6″ Running Board is one of the best products you can find in the market.
Capable of holding up to 350 lbs and has a good grip even in icy or muddy conditions.
Also, this model has forward and backward adjustment capabilities that give its users more customization.
Besides, the installation process is easy and includes all the instructions you will need.
Moreover, heavy-duty all-steel design and seamless appearance make this ONINE Chrome 6″ Running Board a suitable addition for your Chevy Silverado. This is one product that you don’t want to miss.
What We Like
- Can support up to 350 lbs
- Suitable for off-road driving
- More customizations
What We Don’t Like
- None
09. ODERO 6.5″ Running Board – Best Low-Profile Design for Chevy Silverado
Highlighted Features
- Aluminum stainless steel design
- Brushed Exterior
- Unique non-slippery pattern
- 5″ step pad
- Rust-proof
If you choose an ODERO product, you won’t be disappointed. Because of the low-profile design, the ODERO 6.5″ Running Board is a perfect choice for off-road driving.
We cannot forget about the 6.5″ step pad. When we consider safety and comfort, these 6.5″ paddles will do the trick for you. Compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado models.
Made with aluminum alloy steel for better lifespan and durability. Also, the double black color powder coating will protect the running board from any weather conditions.
Furthermore, this ODERO 6.5″ Running Board comes with anti-corrosive qualities and is highly resistant to UV.
For the installation process, you only need to spend around 15 minutes. Easy bolt-on installation and a detailed instruction manual will make your life much easier.
Besides, this model can hold up to 500 lbs easily. All things considered; this is an all-in-one running board that is perfect for your Chevy Silverado.
What We Like
- Can support up to 500 lbs
- Detailed instruction manual
- Easy bolt-on installation
What We Don’t Like
- None
10. YITAMOTOR 4.6″ Drop Side Steps – Best Protection for Chevy Silverado
Highlighted Features
- Alloy steel design
- Powder-coated
- Waterproof rust
- Marked pedals for both sides
- Extra rocker panel
If you are looking for a running board with supreme functionality, the YITAMOTOR 4.6″ Drop Side Steps are a perfect fit for you.
Compatible with 2019-2022 Chevy Silverado models, with an alloy steel design and powder-coated exterior, this running board is made for heavy-duty interactions.
Moreover, it can hold up to 500 lbs and has 4.6″ traction pads. Highly resistant to rust and corrosion. You can drive under any weather condition without any concerns.
Also, these step pads have higher strength, and their extra rocker panel reduces the collision impact. And it prevents direct door impact. So, more safety for you and your vehicle.
With a nonsense installation process, you don’t have to drill or cut anything.
The only thing you need to do is read the instruction manual and initiate the bolt-on installation.
With all these features, YITAMOTOR running boards can provide better safety and durability and are considered as one of the best side steps for 2020 chevy Silverado.
What We Like
- Can support up to 500 lbs
- Highly resistant to rust and corrosion
- Simple installation process
What We Don’t Like
- Not a perfect fit for off-road driving
What to Consider Before Buying : Best Running Boards for Silverado 1500 & 2500hd
Are you looking to buy a new running board for your Chevy Silverado?
If that is the case, this section will help you immensely toward that process.
In this section, we will talk about style, material, size, and many more factors that you should consider before buying a new running board.
All these factors will help you nicely when you try to find the best running board for Chevy Silverado 2500hd. So, without wasting much time, let’s start.
Style
Before talking about the other factors, we need to clear this topic;
There are several styles that you can choose from. Eventually, the decision should be made according to your needs; So here are those styles.
Traditional Running Board
With a flat surface and no gap between the rocker panel and the board, these traditional running boards are popular among most Chevy Silverado users.
Most running boards have 2 to 10-inch step pads. If you want a wider space, this is the best choice.
Step Bar Running Board (Nerf Bars)
For those who are looking for more functionality, the step bar running board is perfect for you.
With round or oval tubing, these running bars range from 2 to 6 inches. They will offer you a more rugged look for your Chevy Silverado.
Rocker Bar
If you plan to go for wheeling, these rocker bars are the only option for you. Made from thick steel tubing and powder coated. These running bars are more durable, they can endure heavy impacts.
Hoop Steps
Hoop steps are single steps that can be mounted to the rocker panel. You can install them right under the door. For all four doors, you will need four hoop steps.
Materials
There are two main types of materials that manufacturers use for running board construction: Aluminum and Steel.
Aluminum
Aluminum is an excellent material because it is resistant to rust and lightweight. You don’t need to treat or paint the aluminum.
Steel
Steel is heavier and sturdier compared to aluminum. Unlike aluminum, steel needs to be treated properly. If you treat steel properly, it will show high resistance to rust and corrosion.
For off-road use, steel running boards are the best option.
Step Materials
Some manufacturers use a different material for steps that are placed on the steel or aluminum bar. Sometimes they use the same material.
But when they use a material like rubber or plastic, it will affect the life span of the running board. With time this soft material will fall apart.
But these running bars are much cheaper than the aluminum running board and steel running bars.
Coating and Finish
For coating, there are two popular choices: powder coating and chrome plating. Powder coating running boards are highly durable.
On the other hand, proper chrome plating comes with three different layers: Nickel, copper, and chrome. So, you will get a shiny running board.
Width of the Step Pad
Before buying a running board, you need to check the step pad width. Without enough space, boarding and leaving can be a difficult task.
Most modern running boards come with a 2 to 10-inch step pad, but our recommendation is you should go for at least 4 inches while choosing a running board. After all, you need some space to place your foot. Right?
Weight Capacity
Without proper weight capacity, a running board can be a useless item. So, make sure to buy a running board that has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds or higher.
Because sometimes, more than one person could step on the running board. So, having over 300-pound weight capacity is very important.
Installation and Instruction Manual: Tyger Auto Step Bar installation(Video)
Don’t choose a running board that has a complicated installation process.
But if you buy that type of product, at least make sure to get the instruction manual. That way, you will be able to install the running board properly.
But we highly recommend choosing a running board that comes with a simple installation process, such as bolt-on installation. All you need to do is, tighten the bolts accordingly.
Few More Special Features that You Need to Consider
Weight of the Running Board: Actually, the weight of the running board plays a significant role; Lighter boards are perfect for off-road driving.
On the other hand, with heavier running boards, you will get a more stable riding experience.
Lighting: Regardless of the color of the running board, if you cannot see it at the night, it will be useless.
To prevent this from happening, most manufacturers produce their running board with built-in lighting. Make sure to choose a running board that has built-in lighting.
Foldable Running Boards: With a foldable running board, you can easily switch your running board in and out of the vehicle. You can use the running board whenever you needed. After that, you can fold it.
Road Clearance: Always remember, you should pick according to your requirement. For instance, if you are an off-road fan, you should consider buying a running board that has higher road clearance.
Step-down running boards are not an option for you. Next time you buy a running board, remember this fact. It will help you immensely while choosing the best running board for Chevy Silverado 1500/2500hd.
More [FAQs] On Best Running Boards for Chevy Silverado 1500/2500hd.
What is the best running board for my Chevy Silverado?
Running boards are mainly made from aluminum and stainless steel. Apart from that, you can find fiberglass and plastic too.
It is safe to say there are four types of running board. But which one is the best for Chevy Silverado?
To answer this, we need to discuss each type separately.
Aluminum Running Boards: Usually, these boards are resistant to rust and light-weight. Also, this running board has anti-slipping qualities.
Stainless Steel Running Boards: Compared to aluminum, stainless steel running boards have higher durability. But need to be treated to protect from corrosion and rust.
Fiberglass Running Boards: Light-weight design with an attractive style. Lacks durability, but you can combine it with a steel plate to increase durability.
Plastic Running Boards: Made from less expensive materials. But stronger than regular plastic. Compared to aluminum and steel, these plastic boards have a short lifespan.
Among these four options, it is either aluminum or steel. Depending on your requirements, you can pick any one of them.
Is Installing a running board on my truck worth it?
Yes, it is worth your time and money. Because, after you install a running board, you can benefit from it in many ways. Here are some of the benefits.
Provide Assist to Shorter Passengers: When a shorter person gets into taller SUVs or lifted trucks, that person will face some difficulties. But, with a running board, that person can get in and out of the truck or SUV easily.
More Protection: When you drive your vehicle, the tires will kick up the debris onto your vehicle. Sometimes, it can damage the doors and windows.
But when you have a running board, it will block most of the debris from hitting the vehicle’s doors and windows.
Much Cleaner Interior: Running boards can act like a doormat for your vehicle. Most passengers will wipe off the dust and mud on the running board. Your vehicle’s interior will be safe and clean.
I am planning to install a running board on my Chevy Silverado; Should I, do it?
Yes, we highly recommend you go forward with the upgrade. Installing a running board comes with many benefits. Mainly it will help passengers to get in and out of your Chevy Silverado.
Especially if you have a lifted Chevy Silverado, installing a running board is a must.
Besides, it will make sure passengers get in and out without any safety issues. Also, the running board will protect your vehicle from debris and will keep the vehicle’s interior clean.
Which one is better, steel, or aluminum running board?
Usually, aluminum running boards are resistant to rust and lightweight. Also, this running board has anti-slipping qualities.
Aluminum is an excellent material because it is resistant to rust; therefore, you don’t need to treat or paint the aluminum.
On the other hand, compared to aluminum running boards, steel running boards have more durability. But need to be treated to protect from corrosion and rust.
If you treat steel properly, it will show higher resistance to rust and corrosion. Also, steel is heavier and sturdier compared to aluminum. For off-road use, steel running boards are the best option.
After comparing the above features, we highly recommend you go with the steel running boards. They are much more durable and perfect for off-road driving.
What kind of effect does the running board have on ground clearance?
Ground clearance is vital during off-road driving; With higher ground clearance, you can drive more comfortably. That is why most people lift their trucks.
But, with lower ground clearance, you will have a hard time driving off-road. Your vehicle might contact the ground.
So, whenever you install a running board, the vehicle might lose a few inches of ground clearance. Especially, if you are planning to install a step-down running board, you will lose ground clearance.
Is there a connection between the running board and drag?
Depending on the shape and type of the running board, this might vary. For instance, when you install a running board, it will add extra weight, and drag to your vehicle.
But at the same time, if you use a round tube running board, it will help the air flow smoothly across the vehicle. Therefore, it will improve the drag coefficient.
You can get even better results with a fully integrated flush-mounted running board. On the other hand, if you are using a running board that does not support aerodynamics, it will increase the drag.
Final Thoughts
We hope that, with this article, you were able to clear all the doubts about running boards.
The above-mentioned ten products are the best running boards for Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2500hd; You can choose any product from the list.
When you buy, consider the points we talked about in this article. There are numerous products and brands in the current market.
So, it is easy to get confused. If that happens, go through the article again and make the best possible decision for your Chevy Silverado.
You might also like to go through our popular review of best upper control arms for lifted Silverado 1500