NERF BARS VS. RUNNING BOARDS, PROS, CONS, AND DIFFERENCES

Both running boards and nerf bars attach to the lower portion of the truck and as such, can be made in different shapes, forms, and material. These two have some distinct differences. Let’s take a look at what they are.

What are running boards?

Running boards offer you more than sufficient space for entering your truck. They often come with non-slip step pads, ensuring that you can stand firmly with one leg. Running boards are made to endure extreme conditions. They are made slip-resistant in snow, rain, etc.

Pros and Cons of Running Boards

The great thing about running boards is that they are tailored toward shorter passengers. They include a step-up, which makes it easier to get inside lifted vehicles. As they cover up the entire board length, they are useful not only for getting in and out of the vehicle but also for wiping of dirt off your shoes before entering. It is made of durable materials (plastic, fiberglass, aluminum, and steel), and can sustain all kinds of stresses and keep that elegant, sleek look.

What are Electric Running Boards?

Electric running boards add a touch of elegance, sleekness, and functionality to your car. The way electric running boards work is retracting and detracting when needed. When you open the door, the electric running board retracts to allow you to step on it and get in your truck. Thanks to the ability to retract in a matter of one or two seconds, the electric running board is equally as efficient as the ordinary one. However, since this is a newer technology, it generally costs a bit more.

What are Nerf Bars?

Nerf bars came straight from the high-speed racing, where nerf bars were used to keep off the aggressive racers at early days of racing. Because of that, nerf bars were and are used as protection. Nerf bars were protecting a racer from other aggressive racers, whereas now, they protect your truck from rock chips and road debris while driving.

Pros and Cons of Nerf Bars

Much like running boards, they also have the same function allowing you to get in or out of the truck and wiping off dirt from your shoes. Unlike running boards, which come in a bigger plethora of materials, nerf bars are made of either steel or aluminum and can hold a maximum of 500 lbs.

As much as they are great at protecting your vehicles from debris, stones, and grime while driving, the downside is that they can become very slippery in extreme conditions – dewy, wet, or cold. You will need to wipe the nerf bars before stepping on them, which is not the case with running boards.

What is the Difference Between a Running Board and a Nerf Bar?

There is no major difference when it comes to the price point for Nerf bars and running boards. Nerf bars are more stylish and sleek as compared to the boards. But if you own a lower vehicle or a compact SUV, then a running board will be more suitable for you as it gives more functionality when it comes to ground clearance. However, if you own a pickup truck, you can opt for Nerf bars. Both of these options are essential to make the entry and exit in the vehicle easy.

The difference between those two is in the style. If you are buying it for functionality, then a running board might be a better choice. On the contrary, a nerf bar is a bit more subtle and allows you to achieve almost the same functionality, with less visibility. The slip-resistant characteristics are similar, with running boards being a tad better.

So, which one is better? Take a good look and see what fits your car the best, from both practical and looks standpoint.

Need some help? Give us a call today or come visit our showroom. Ask for Rick and tell him Angie sent you. Our experienced sales staff is here to assist you with all your accessory questions.

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Address: 17000 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188 We are located near Southcenter Mall Hours: Monday- Friday 8:30-5:30 Phone: (425) 277-9000 https://seattletruckaccessories.com