Running boards are a very helpful addition to your RAM 1500.
These will not only help the shorter and shakier passengers to step in but also protect your car against any debris and dirt from getting inside, making the car’s floor mats dirty.
In addition, they will also give a stylish new look to your RAM 1500 from the outside. With higher vehicles, running boards are more like a must.
Here is a list of the best running boards for RAM 1500 with their special features and cons to make it easier for you to choose if you’re planning to purchase some.
Table of Contents
7 Top Rated RAM 1500 Running Boards Comparisons
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK & BEST BUDGET  | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.2 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. APS iBoard Running Boards
The number one product on today’s list is the APS iBoard Running Boards.
These are five inches and also very light. The lightweight property makes it better than other running boards because, as usual, they are heavier.
They will weigh the vehicle down and therefore affect the gas mileage negatively. This won’t be too much of a problem with the APS boards, however.
These are also very durable, and will not wear off even after a long time, and function properly in the long term.
Apart from this, they are also very stylish and good-looking and will give our RAM 1500 a stylish look it deserves.
Moreover, this product has a unibody design. The entire running board is made from one single piece of material.
This is the aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. This makes the running boards strong and durable.
Not only this, even the end caps are built from aluminum and also are welded using a robotic arm. Because of this material, these running boards are lightweight yet so strong.
Moreover, the aluminum also makes it free from any rust that might build up on these running boards, keeping it looking fresh and new for as long as possible.
The load capacity of these running boards is 300 lbs. The upper surface is covered with a great quality rubber pad.
This will help it grip the shoes really well and avoid any slippage, this is helpful because sometimes the shoe might slip when someone is in a hurry which is very dangerous, but these running boards will avoid that, which makes them perfect if you have children or elderly people in your family.
After the product is made, the company makes sure to test it using a few ways.
For example, the salt spray tests to check corrosion resistance, load stress check, which will test the weight capacity, and an accelerated weathering test, this test will check the UV resistance.
Another test is the rubber friction co-efficient test which will make sure that the product is anti-slip.
So many checks and tests make sure that every single product is high quality and not defective.
- Lightweight
- Strong and durable
- Aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum material
- Slip-free rubber pad
- Goes through rigorous testing
- No marks for the front/rear end or left/right piece
APS makes sure that there is no compromise on quality thanks to the many tests, giving you a stylish, perfect running board set, ready to install on your RAM 1500.
2. Tyger Auto TG-RS2D40208 Riser
The second best product on today’s list is the Tyger Auto TG-RS2D40208 Riser.
These running boards can not only be installed on the RAM 1500 but are also available for the RAM 2500 and 3500.
The look is a sleek and simple one, good if you prefer a minimalistic style. Not only are they good-looking, but also very strong and durable.
This will protect them from any damage happening. Also, being powder coated makes sure that the running boards are even stronger than before.
This will make them unable to break with higher weight and help them to last as long as possible.
The design is one piece, another feature to protect it from breaking and falling apart. This product is made of a four-inch, heavy-duty triangle mild steel tubing.
The powder coating is also rust-resistant. Because of this, your running boards will look good for as long as possible.
It also features step pads. These step pads are slip-resistant, which makes them safe in case you have any children or people that find it harder to climb.
These step pads are also UV resistant and will not wear off due to the harsh weather. The installation process is also pretty easy and bolt-on.
This will allow you to install these at home by yourself with only a little assistance.
Therefore, you won’t need to be going to a professional to have these installed, which will save you some money.
In addition, there are complaints about the coating not being exactly rust-resistant, and some customers have reported rust spots forming on them after only a short time.
- Sleek and stylish look
- Strong and durable
- One-piece design
- UV resistant anti-slip step pads
- Easy to install
- Design not original
- Rust spots form after a short time
Overall, these running boards are easy to install, strong, and durable, and with the stylish design, they make them the perfect choice if that is your preference.
3. n-FAB EXD09CC-TX Running Boards
Another great quality product on my list is the n-FAB EXD09CC-TX Running Boards.
These step pads have a steel construction. This material makes it very strong and durable. Therefore, these will last you very long and will be safe from getting ruined.
In addition, the steel will also prevent any rust on the surface, which might ruin the entire look of this product.
The design of these running pads is also very stylish. There is a step design with two steps on either side. This makes the RAM 1500 look neat and pretty as the steps are small.
These running pads will fit all truck beds that are crew cab. They have an angular steps design, and the length of the steps in these is similar to that of the cab length.
Both steps are placed exactly under the door. A black powder coating makes the exterior look stylish and protects the running pads.
They also come with adjustable mounting brackets for maximum convenience.
These mounting brackets are customized to the running boards and are adjustable, which makes the installation process much easier.
Moreover, mounting on these running boards is also very easy and can be done easily by yourself at home.
However, you may feel like needing a friend for help as running pads are usually quite heavy.
The design is very modern and angular, and your car will have a sleek profile from the side, making your RAM 1500 look even more stylish.
- Steel construction
- Strong and durable
- Black powder coating
- Adjustable mounting brackets
- Sleek and stylish look
- Prone to rusting
The sleek and stylish look of these running pads is the perfect addition to your RAM 1500.
4. TAC Oval Black Running Boards
These TAC Oval Black Running Boards are also one of their high-quality items.
TAC is known in the market for producing high-quality car accessories and is a very trustworthy brand. These running pads have an amazing design.
It is hard to find a better set of running pads at the same price as these ones. The design is so stylish that it will make your RAM 1500 look even better.
These can be used on the 2009-2018 RAM 1500 Crew Cab (including 2019-2010 Classic), the 2010-2021 RAM 2500/3500/4500/5500 Crew Cab, as well as the 2009-2018 RAM 1500 Crew Cab and 2010-2019 RAM 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500.
The design is quite simple. However, these pads are very strong and powerful. They have a stylish back exterior.
The heavy duty steel oval tubes used in its construction make them not only strong but very durable.
This will prevent them from breaking or damage over the long term. In addition, they have UV protection helping it against the harsh sunny weather, making the product even more durable.
The step pads are also non-slip, which is a plus if someone is in a rush and for passengers who find it harder to climb, for example, children.
It also comes with a three-year no hassle warranty which will help in case of any manufacturing defects.
Therefore you don’t have to worry about getting your hands on the wrong product. Not only this, but these running pads are also pretty easy to install.
The packaging includes all of the mounting hardware needed for installation. It also comes with instruction making the process much easier.
In this case, you’ll have to purchase some yourself, which might be a hassle.
- Great design
- Strong and powerful
- UV protection and slip-resistant
- 3-year no hassle warranty
- The chance that you don't get the necessary hardware
TAC is a very trustworthy brand, and each of their products, including this one, is high quality and made to give the best performance.
5. Tyger Auto TG-AM2D20078 Star Armor Kit
This Tyger Auto TG-AM2D20078 Star Armor Kit is very strong, making it able to withstand a lot of weight, making it safe to step on.
These running boards are heavy-duty and have a very attractive and eye-catching design, perfect to compliment your RAM 1500.
In addition, the weight capacity is also huge. This is compatible with the 2009-2018 RAM 1500 Crew Cab models as well as the 2019-2020 RAM 1500 Classic.
The running boards are made of three one-piece, heavy-duty metal tubes; whose diameter is 2 inches. In addition, these boards are pre-treated, which helps to minimize contamination.
In addition, it has a special E coating in the interior as well as the exterior. The coating is made of textured black powder.
All of this makes the boards resistant to rust; therefore will stay looking fresh for a long time without having a look ruined. The boards also have end caps that are sealed.
These end caps are very strong and durable and will not allow any dirt or water to come inside the tubes at all. The running boards have step pads made of metal.
This helps it have a higher weight capacity with the ease of stepping inside or outside the car. The weight capacity is 500 lbs which is a lot more than most other running boards.
This makes this product special. These boards also have an easy bolt-on installation process, which will allow you to do that easily at home without needing to go a professional.
However, you might need to drill yourself with the 2009-2012 models. The packaging also comes with all the required instructions allowing you to do it yourself.
However, as running boards are quite heavy, you might need a friend to help you handle them easily.
In addition, there are a lot of complaints from customers about receiving damaged products in the box, so Tyger Auto should fix that.
- High 500 lbs weight capacity
- One-piece, heavy-duty metal tubes
- E coating makes them rust resistant
- Metal step pads
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Welds might be soppy in some cases
- Complaints about receiving damaged products from factory
If you want the perfect high-weight capacity running boards, then these are the best option as they can withstand up to 500 lbs, which is kind of insane.
6. Galaxy Auto 5” Oval Curved Running Boards
The next product on my list for your RAM 1500 is these Galaxy Auto 5” Oval Curved Running Boards.
These will work with not only your RAM 1500 but also the RAM 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, as long as they are crew cab.
They will fit a lot of different models. In addition, the installation process is quite easy as there is an easy bolt-on installation.
In addition, all of the necessary hardware is included in the packaging.
The instructions also come along with the packaging; therefore, you can easily install these running boards at home without needing to go to a professional.
These running boards have an excellent build quality. It is made of 5″ high quality, heavy-duty stainless steel.
This makes the product very strong and able to withstand a lot of weight. In addition, the steel also makes it very durable.
Therefore these running boards will last you longer than you’d expect, so you won’t have to get them replaced any time soon after purchasing these.
Moreover, the step pads on these boards are also nonslip, which helps a lot if you’re going to have passengers more likely to slip, such as the elderly and children.
This will also keep you safe if you’re ever in a hurry and help you safely enter your tall RAM 1500 without any hassle. These are some of the best running boards for this price.
- Easy installation process
- Packaging includes necessary hardware and instructions
- Excellent build quality
- Steel construction makes them strong and durable
- Anti-slip step pads
- Will only fit crew cabs
- Bolts and brackets might rust after only a year
The steel build makes these running boards very strong and durable, and you won’t feel like replacing them a long while after your purchase.
7. AA Products Dropped Steps Hoop Style Running Boards
So finally I am going to write the last product today.
These AA Products Dropped Steps Hoop Style Running Boards have different models of these running pads for different RAM 1500 and Crew Cab models.
These running boards have two steps for each side which are attached to a tube. The construction is done using heavy-duty material.
This will help these running boards to withstand a lot of weight.
In addition, these running boards are also durable in most harsh weather conditions. Therefore they will last you long no matter how severe the weather is.
These steps are welded robotically to the tubes. These tubes are 3 inches in diameter, and the ends are sealed. This will prevent any water from entering the tubes.
Moreover, both the running boards have three holes for mounting brackets. This will help these to attach themselves to the RAM 1500 on 3 points.
These mounting brackets are included in the packaging, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing those. For this reason, you won’t need to buy anything new for the installation.
You can also easily do the process at home if you’d like, adding to saving the costs.
The black finishing on the exterior makes these running boards look much more stylish as well as prevent any rust from building on the outside.
This will help keep the boards looking fresh and new for long.
That said, this might also be a bit unsafe, especially if you have children or older people, and stepping on may be harder.
- Heavy-duty material
- Welded robotically to tubes
- Includes mounting brackets in the packaging
- Black finishing on the exterior
- Rust resistant
- May bounce a little bit
Overall, these running boards are another great pick with a stylish exterior and convenient installation process.
What To Look For When Buying Running Boards For Your RAM 1500
Buying the reliable running boards for the RAM 1500 can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be.
This guide will help you know everything there is to know about running boards, so you make your purchase and buy one that will fit your needs perfectly.
Avoid Low-Quality Materials
While many different types of materials can be used to make them, I strongly recommend avoiding plastic or similar quality boards as they will not last long.
Instead, opt for stainless steel or aluminum, as these materials will withstand weather conditions and provide a reliable service without breaking down too soon.
In addition, the finish on them is harder to come off, so the look of your truck will remain intact.
Check The Carrying Capacity
The most important thing to find out is how much weight they can carry. You want to confirm that the running boards won’t bend or break under the weight of an adult.
This is generally not a concern with most running boards, but it does not hurt to confirm using buyer ratings.
Confirm Compatibility
When searching for running boards for your RAM 1500, it’s important to confirm that the product is compatible with your vehicle.
Some manufacturers will list compatibility with various trucks, but some aren’t compatible with certain vehicles. If unsure, you should not risk it by ordering the running board.
Instead, purchase one that is guaranteed to work with the RAM 1500.
Should Be Corrosion Resistant
It’s very important that you get the highest quality product when it comes to running boards. After all, they will be attached to your vehicle and must withstand constant use.
One thing to look for is corrosion resistance. Corrosion can weaken metal running boards and make them unsafe, so it’s important to find a seller that advertises this feature.
If the seller does not mention corrosion resistance, it’s best to avoid that brand.
Lastly, the rusting will also ruin the look of the running board, which means you will have to take it off.
It is better to confirm that it is rust-free so as not to be surprised by something like this later.
How To Install Running Boards On Your RAM 1500
Installing a running board on the RAM 1500 can be fairly easy, but it involves a few steps.
That’s why I have created this guide! I’ll walk through everything you need to know about the installation process.
- You need to line up the bracket’s holes with the bolts and then insert them into those holes. The brackets should be sitting flush against the frame of your truck.
- Next up, you need to install the washers and then the nuts. Tighten them up.
- Repeat this two times for that side and three times for the other side. I suggest you finish one side and move to the next.
- Then, you need to lay down the running board itself on the part of the brackets that are sticking out.
- Make sure to align the mounting points properly.
- Finally, install the required nuts and bolts. There is one set for each mounting point.
The process may not be similar for all running boards, but it may be close enough.
If any hardware is missing or looks like a manufacturing defect with the running board itself, you need to contact the manufacturer and ask for a refund or exchange as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Will RAM 2500 Running Boards Fit Ram 1500 Truck?
Yes. The RAM 2500 running boards will fit 1500.
However, for the 2017 RAM 1500 crew cab running boards, 2017 RAM 2500 crew cab running boards, and 2017 RAM 3500 crew cab running boards, the front driver seat will need to have pre-threaded screws inside of it.
It will also need the special one for the driver’s front side. This is included in the packaging.
Q2. How Much Does It Cost To Have Running Boards Installed On A Truck?
Usually, the cheapest running boards will cost anywhere $100 to $300.
There are running boards that can support more weight and also have added traction, and these can cost up to $500.
If, in addition, you cannot install the running boards yourself and need a professional to do it for you, that will add around $50 to $150 to the cost.
Usually, the most expensive running boards will also connect to the electrical system of the truck.
Q3. Are Running Boards A Good Idea For RAM 1500?
After installing running boards, these will block any debris as well as protect your truck from any damage. These boards will keep the interior of your car clean.
This is because they are kind of like a doormat for passengers to use before they step in and will help wipe off any dirt on their shoes.
If you wish to keep the interior of your RAM 1500 clean, then running boards will help a lot with that.
Conclusion
With all of the great quality items on the list, it is quite hard to say which one tops them all.
However, after a detailed analysis, I can say that the APS iBoard Running Boards are the best running boards for RAM 1500 among all other boards listed in this article.
These are very popular and the top choice of most users and professionals so you can totally go for these if you want.
Before purchasing some for yourself, however, it is important to choose ones that suit your own needs best.
I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.
