Choosing the best pickup truck running boards for seniors had never been this easy. We have carefully reviewed each running board in detail here.
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Do you suffer from pain in your joints while getting on or off your pickup truck? A running board is your answer.
According to the CDC, 49.6% of people aging 65 and above have arthritis. Arthritis leads to pain, aches, and stiffness in joints, and that can cause mobility issues.
A running board helps seniors while climbing a high vehicle, especially something like a pickup truck. The running board offers an additional step that reduces the angle at which you must bend your knee in order to climb up.
In this article, we have finalized a list of the seven of the best pickup truck running boards for seniors.
In this review, we will help you with:
- What to look for in a running board for seniors
- Some great options for your pickup truck
- Answers to frequently asked questions
How To Choose a Good Running Board For Seniors
Materials
While selecting the best pickup truck running boards for seniors, the material of the running board is one of the crucial factors. Most of the running boards are made of stainless steel, aluminum, or plastic (ABS).
Stainless steel running boards are cheaper than aluminum ones as the raw material for steel is more affordable than aluminum. Stainless steel boards are heavier and sturdier than aluminum, and they cost less. However, steel is also prone to rust, while aluminum doesn’t rust ever. Running boards made of plastic are not that sturdy.
Another thing that you need to double-check is the padding material. Metals or plastic are slippery, and thus a skid resistant padding is provided on the top side of the running board. Ensure that the padding material is rubber to avoid any accidents while a senior is climbing in the vehicle. Always look for tread patterns on the step pad to offer better traction.
Load Capacity
A running board should be able to take a load of even a heavyweight person comfortably without flexing. The load capacity of a running board lies anywhere between 300- 600 lbs. How much load capacity you need would depend on the heaviest person climbing in your truck.
However, it is best to go for a high load capacity if your budget allows it to be on the safer side.
Installation Process
While looking for the best pickup truck running boards for seniors, you must consider the board’s installation process. If the installation process is too lengthy or the instructions are hard to follow, it would be very difficult for a senior to do the installation independently.
Hiring help or taking the truck to the garage for installation would cost extra. Make sure to check the review of the installation of any particular product you might be interested in.
Price
This factor might be last on the list but certainly one of the main factors in choosing a running board. The price of a running board depends on several factors- the material of the board, its weight capacity, and if it has any additional features.
If you are looking to buy a running board to help a senior climb easily into a truck, then sturdiness, slip resistance, and high load capacity are the main factors to consider. Features like electric operated and LED lighting systems would add to the cost and are not necessary.
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Things To Think About Before Buying a Running Board
Who makes the best truck running boards?
A lot of manufacturers make running boards for trucks. However, some manufacturers offer the best quality product at a reasonable price. Choosing the best is a task with so many options available in the market.
AMP Research is one such manufacturer of running boards for trucks. Their products are so good that the top two running boards in our list are from AMP Research. They use top-quality material to make the running boards. The fit of these boards to the truck is excellent, and they come with a high load capacity.
Are aluminum running boards better than steel?
While comparing aluminum running boards with steel running boards, you need to consider several factors like cost, strength, rust resistance, and density of the materials. The cost of steel is less than aluminum. Aluminum, however, is a malleable material and easy to mold into any specific shape.
The steel material is rigid and very strong compared to aluminum which means steel has a better load capacity. However, the strength is due to its high density in comparison to aluminum.
Steel also is prone to rust if left untreated, while aluminum doesn’t rust at all.
Given all the facts, it is clear that for running boards, the best material is steel. So no, aluminum running boards are not better than steel.
How much will it cost to install running boards on a truck?
The cost to add running boards to a truck depends upon the quality of the boards. The basic running boards for trucks can cost anywhere around $100- $300. If you need running boards with specific features like better load capacity or traction, you will need to pay up to $500.
Some running boards are electric-powered and have LED light systems. Those boards tend to cost even more.
Another factor that affects the cost of running boards is the installation. If you hire someone to install the running boards, you will need to pay anywhere from $50 to $100.
What running boards should I buy?
Buying a running board can be confusing with a plethora of options. While choosing which running board to buy, you need to keep a few things in mind. The first and foremost factor would be the material of the board. You can choose stainless steel, aluminum depending upon your budget.
The load capacity of the board and the ease of installation are other factors determining which running board would be better suitable for you. Make sure to check whether the running boards are compatible with your vehicle or not before buying.
Some of the best pickup truck running boards for seniors are listed below.
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7 Best Pickup Truck Running Boards For Seniors
#1 Tyger Auto TG-RS2D40078 Pickup Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 9.4/10
- Load Capacity: 8.7/10
- Installation Process: 8.8/10
- Price: 8.6/10
- Overall Score: 8.8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Exterior: Alloy Steel
- Color: Black
- Item weight: 36 pounds
- Compatibility: Crew Cab
- Weight limit: Over 400 pounds
Bottom Line
The Tyger Auto running boards are great for seniors climbing in a truck with the wide step pads that are slip-resistant.
Pros:
- It is made up of heavy-duty steel.
- The board has wide skid-resistant step pads.
- It is available in dual colors.
- This board is inexpensive.
- It comes with a five years warranty.
Cons:
- Installation can be a bit tough.
Detailed Features
Materials: These running boards from Tyger Auto have heavy-duty steel tubes which are lightweight and sturdy. The tubes are four inches wide and offer a better footing for a senior to climb into the truck safely.
Load Capacity: These running boards offer a load capacity of more than 400 pounds. This much capacity is sufficient for even a heavyweight senior to climb in the truck with ease. The steel tubes can take heavy loads without flexing.
Installation Process: A senior can install the boards on their own with the instruction manual. However, if their truck is of the older model, there might be some drilling required, and they might need a handyperson for that.
Price: With being just under $200, these running boards are a steal. These boards are made with top-quality material and a clean, professional look at such a low price.
#2 Tyger Auto Pickup Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 8.8/10
- Load Capacity: 8.7/10
- Installation Process: 8.2/10
- Price: 8.6/10
- Overall Score: 8.6/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Carbon steel
- Exterior: Anti-slip pads
- Color: Black
- Item weight: 46.9 pounds
- Compatibility: Crew Cab
- Weight limit: over 400 pounds
Bottom Line
These Tyger Auto running boards are our second favorite for seniors, with them being easy to install with just some essential tools.
Pros:
- It is made of good quality steel material.
- It has a full body powder coating which offers protection against rain, dust, and dirt.
- The step pads on these running boards are wide.
- It is effortless to install with the instructions from the manual.
- The boards have a five-year warranty.
Cons:
- Exposure to harsh weather may result in rust.
Detailed Features
Materials: These running boards are made using robust steel tubes. Steel is strong and is durable. The oval design of the tubes offers a 3.5 inches wide step which is wide enough for seniors to climb in the truck comfortably.
Load Capacity: The steel tube is super strong and doesn’t flex even after high pressure. It is the reason why these running boards offer a load capacity of more than 400 pounds. It is safe for even an overweight senior.
Installation Process: The installation process of these running boards is really simple. Even if a senior is installing these boards on their own, they would be able to do so with some essential tools without needing any help.
Price: These running boards are priced just under $200. Even though costlier than our top choice, the boards are cheaper, and the quality of these running boards is superior for such a low price.
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#3 YITAMOTOR Pickup Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 8.6/10
- Load Capacity: 8/10
- Installation Process: 8.2/10
- Price: 8.4/10
- Overall Score: 8.3/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel
- Exterior: Stainless steel
- Color: Stainless Steel Silver
- Item weight: 52.9 pounds
- Compatibility: Crew Cab
- Weight limit: 450 pounds
Bottom Line
These running boards from YITAMOTOR offer the best value for money with being great for seniors with a high load capacity and great build.
Pros:
- The running boards have stainless steel material.
- These boards come with a load capacity of 450 pounds.
- The boards are resistant to rust and UV radiation.
- The installation of these boards is easy.
- The running board kit comes customized for your vehicle.
Cons:
- The Plastic step padding might be slippery in wet weather conditions.
Detailed Features
Materials: The running boards are made of stainless steel material. Stainless steel is solid and durable and is less prone to rust and damage. These boards are resistant to saltwater sprays and UV radiation. The non-slip pad made of ABS plastic is also highly durable.
Load Capacity: These running boards can withstand a load of 450 pounds on each side with high-quality stainless steel material. With this high load capacity, these boards are safe even for a heavyweight senior to step on them without the fear of falling.
Installation Process: The running boards come with an installation instruction manual that is easy to follow. Even a senior can easily do the installation independently without any help as there is no cutting or drilling required.
Price: This is the cheapest running board on our list that can match up the high quality of other boards. With the price being just under $200, it is the best option for a senior who is on a budget.
#4 APS Pickup Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 8.4/10
- Load Capacity: 7.8/10
- Installation Process: 7.9/10
- Price: 7.9/10
- Overall Score: 8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Aluminum
- Exterior: Powder Coated Matte Black
- Color: Aluminum Black
- Item weight: 40.3 pounds
- Compatibility: Truck
- Weight limit: 300 pounds
Bottom Line
These running boards have a comprehensive step that is entirely skid-resistant, making them ideal for seniors.
Pros:
- These running boards have aluminum material.
- It has a low-profile design.
- The running boards are entirely covered with skid-resistant step covers.
- It can take up a load of 300 pounds.
- The running boards are easy to install.
Cons:
- The steel brackets are prone to rust.
Detailed Features
Materials: It is built with aircraft-grade aluminum 6061. The aluminum metal is rust-resistant and incredibly durable. The whole five inches wide step is covered with skid-resistant material, making it safe for a senior to climb into the truck.
Load Capacity: The aluminum in this running board is a solid material that offers a high load capacity of 300 pounds. High weight capacity allows a senior to get in the truck without the board flexing comfortably.
Installation Process: These running boards come with an instruction manual that makes the installation process more straightforward. The installation is simple, and even a senior can do it easily.
Price: While the price of this running board is costlier than the above three. The quality of this running board is worth it with high-quality materials.
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#5 AMP Research Pickup Truck Electric Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 7.9/10
- Load Capacity: 8.3/10
- Installation Process: 7.4/10
- Price: 7.5/10
- Overall Score: 7.8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Aluminum
- Exterior: Black
- Color: Black
- Item weight: 51 pounds
- Compatibility: Truck
- Weight limit: 600 pounds
Bottom Line
These running boards made their way to our list with being electrically operated and with LED lights.
Pros:
- These boards are made with aluminum material.
- The boards offer a weight capacity of 600 pounds.
- The boards extend when you open the car door.
- These boards have LED lights.
- It is corrosion-resistant.
Cons:
- The price of these running boards is way too high as compared to others on this list.
Detailed Features
Materials: These running boards are made of aluminum material. Aluminum material offers extreme strength and durability. The outer material is PTFE coating which makes this running board skid-proof making it safe for seniors.
Load Capacity: These running boards are strong and have a load capacity of 600 pounds. Higher load capacity ensures the safety of seniors who are overweight.
Installation Process: Installation of these running boards is not that easy. It comes with an instruction manual, and if someone has experience in handling tools, they can do it on their own. However, for seniors, it isn’t easy to install.
Price: The price for these running boards is way too high. Due to the running boards being electrically operated, they cost more than $1500.
#6 TAC Pickup Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 7.7/10
- Load Capacity: 7.5/10
- Installation Process: 7.3/10
- Price: 7.5/10
- Overall Score: 7.5/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Exterior: Alloy Steel
- Color: Texture Black
- Item weight: 49 pounds
- Compatibility: Truck
- Weight limit: 350 pounds
Bottom Line
These running boards from TAC are great for seniors with their broad, non-slip step pads.
Pros:
- The running boards and bracket are both of alloy steel.
- The outer of the board is coated with e-coating.
- The boards are rust and scratch-resistant.
- It comes with a warranty of five years.
Cons:
- Installation instructions are difficult to understand.
Detailed Features
Materials: The alloy steel material used in these running boards are extremely strong with improved durability and strength. The upper coating is a black powder coating that is scratch and dust resistant, and non-slippery, making it safe for a senior to climb into the truck.
Load Capacity: The running boards have a load capacity of 350 pounds. Even a heavyweight senior can easily use these running boards to climb into the truck, and the boards would not flex.
Installation Process: It comes with an installation instruction manual. The installation is pretty easy, and even a senior can do it. However, the instructions can be challenging to understand.
Price: These running boards are priced just under $200. The price is affordable, and with the quality these boards have, it is a great deal.
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#7 Off Roader Pick up Truck Running Boards
Features
- Materials: 7.6/10
- Load Capacity: 7.5/10
- Installation Process: 7.4/10
- Price: 7/10
- Overall Score: 7.4/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Aluminum
- Exterior: Aluminum, Non-slip step pad
- Color: Silver and Black
- Item weight: 44.3 pounds
- Compatibility: Truck
- Weight limit: 300 pounds
Bottom Line
These running boards from Off Roader are excellent for seniors, with a four inches wide non-slip step padding all over the board.
Pros:
- The installation of these boards is easy. It is made using aircraft-grade aluminum.
- The step pad is textured and has treads for better grip.
- These boards offer a load capacity of 300 pounds on each side.
Cons:
- The brackets are not strong enough.
Detailed Features
Materials: The aircraft-grade aluminum used in the making of these boards is highly sturdy and durable. The aluminum will last long without any wear and corrosion. The non-slip rubber pad with treads offers a better grip. It is suitable for a senior to get in the truck safely, even in wet weather.
Load Capacity: The load capacity of these running boards is 300 pounds on each side. Having such a high load capacity is ideal for a heavyweight senior to climb in the truck without comfortably flexing the boards.
Installation Process: The installation manual comes with the boards with explicit instructions. It is easy to follow, and even a senior can do the installation independently without much help.
Price: With the running boards price being under $250, it is not cheap compared to some other boards on this list. But the price is reasonable enough, and the quality of these boards is excellent.
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Conclusion
Owning a pickup truck as a vehicle is great when you have to carry some stuff. But the height of the truck from the ground is way too much. Seniors often suffer from several bones and joint issues and have a lot of trouble getting in and out of the vehicle.
Installing running boards on the pickup truck would be a brilliant idea to efficiently help a senior get in and out of the truck. If you are looking for running boards and are confused about which one to buy. We have made a list of seven of the best pickup truck running boards for seniors to help you out.
Our top choice in the Best pickup truck running board for seniors is Tyger Auto TG-RS2D40078 Pickup Truck Running Boards. These running boards have heavy-duty steel tubes which are lightweight and sturdy. The tubes are four inches wide and offer a better footing for a senior to climb into the truck safely.
Our second favorite is Tyger Auto Pickup Truck Running Boards. These running boards are made using robust steel tubes. The oval design of the tubes offers a 3.5 inches wide step which is wide enough for seniors to climb in the truck comfortably.
If you want something under your budget and don’t want to compromise on quality, then YITAMOTOR Pickup Truck Running Boards is the best. These boards are resistant to saltwater sprays and UV radiation. The non-slip pad made of ABS plastic is also highly durable.
