If you drive a 2023 Toyota Tundra CrewMax, the right running boards make the cab easier to enter, give passengers a steadier step, and help protect the lower body from road spray, rocks, and daily scuffs. This guide focuses on CrewMax-compatible side steps, nerf bars, and running boards that match the buyer intent for a full-size Tundra with four full-size doors.
Quick fitment note: this article is written for 2023 Toyota Tundra CrewMax owners. Many listings also cover nearby model years, often 2022–2025 or 2022–2026, but you should always confirm CrewMax cab fitment, bracket style, and factory mounting points on the Amazon listing before ordering. These are not for Double Cab models unless the listing specifically says so.
This roundup is reader-supported. When you click through Amazon links, we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
Quick Verdict
Best overall: choose the YZONA Willow Leaf Running Boards if you want a strong two-step design with a bold look and high stated load capacity.
Best value: choose the COMNOVA Aluminum Running Boards if you want a lighter, rust-resistant option with a wide step and clean factory-style profile.
Best for bed and roof access: choose the Binary Star Bed Access Running Boards if you often reach cargo, roof racks, or gear near the rear of the cab.
Best wide step: choose the OTHOWE 6.5" CrewMax Running Boards if you want a full-foot platform and four brackets per side.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
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🏆 Best Overall |
Two-step access and heavy-duty build |
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💰 Best Value |
Rust-resistant aluminum and clean styling |
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🔒 Best Bed Access |
BINARY STAR 6" Carbon Steel Running Boards (Rust-resistant finish) |
Rear step for bed and roof reach |
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🔶 Best Wide Step |
Full-foot platform and stable brackets |
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🎯 Best Drop Step |
Lower entry point for tall trucks |
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⚡ Best Brand-Name Steel Option |
No-drill steel step bars |
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🛡️ Best Two-Step Protection |
Lower step plus side protection |
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💡 Best Rugged Tubular Design |
ONINE Tubular 7" Textured Black Running Board (2-in-1 design) |
Wide steel board with louvered tread |
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🚀 Best Off-Road Style |
Rugged drop-down look |
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🎨 Best Simple Wide-Step Style |
Clean 6.5" step surface |
Selection Criteria
You want running boards that fit your 2023 Tundra CrewMax without guesswork, so fitment was the first filter. I prioritized CrewMax-specific listings, four full-size-door compatibility, factory mounting points, clear bracket hardware, and product descriptions that match the 2022+ Tundra body style.
After fitment, I looked at material, step width, tread texture, corrosion protection, weight-limit claims, and install style. Aluminum boards are usually lighter and naturally resist rust better, while powder-coated carbon steel or alloy steel can feel stronger but needs better finish maintenance in salty climates.
I also looked at buyer-friendly use cases. A wide 6.5" platform helps families and older passengers, a drop step helps lifted trucks, and a rear bed-access step helps if you load roof racks or reach bed cargo often.
Before You Buy
- Confirm CrewMax cab fitment: CrewMax has four full-size doors. Do not order a Double Cab set unless the listing specifically fits your cab.
- Check the model-year range: some listings cover 2022–2025, while others now list 2022–2026.
- Match the step style to your truck: drop steps help taller or lifted trucks, while flat wide boards work well for daily family use.
- Think about rust: aluminum resists corrosion well, while steel needs a strong powder coat, e-coating, drain holes, and regular touch-ups.
- Install loosely first: mount brackets loosely, align the boards, then tighten everything once the fit is even.
YZONA Willow Leaf Running Boards
If you want easier access and a tougher look for your Tundra CrewMax, these YZONA running boards are a strong first choice. The two-tier layout gives you a lower step for entry and a higher step for roof access, which is useful if your truck has larger tires or a mild lift.
The listing describes heavy-duty carbon steel construction with a powder-coated finish and a no-drill bolt-on installation. That makes them a good match if you want a step that feels more aggressive than a flat oval running board without moving into a full custom rock-slider setup.
What People Say
Buyer feedback in the source article repeatedly highlights a solid feel once the bolts are tightened, a clean truck look, and easier entry and exit. A few buyers mention that careful bracket alignment matters during installation.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
You get a lower stepping point, which makes climbing into a tall cab less awkward. |
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Lifted trucks |
The two-step design reduces the stretch into the cab compared with a flat board. |
|
Loading roof gear |
The upper step gives you a more useful platform when reaching roof racks or cargo. |
Durability
YZONA lists carbon steel construction, black powder coating, and a high stated load capacity. Because coated steel can chip over time, inspect the finish after winter driving, gravel roads, or off-road use and touch up bare metal quickly.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific CrewMax fitment, with listing fitment extending across nearby Tundra model years
- Two-tier drop-step design for easier entry and roof access
- Carbon steel construction with black powder coating
- Textured stepping area for better boot grip
- Bolt-on installation with included brackets and hardware
Check Product Details on Amazon
COMNOVA 6.5" Aluminum Running Boards
If you want a tidy set of steps that actually get used, these COMNOVA aluminum running boards are one of the easiest picks to justify. The 6.5" platform gives passengers a full-foot step, while the aluminum construction is a smart choice if you deal with rain, snow, or road salt.
The low-profile shape works well for drivers who want a factory-style look instead of a bulky off-road bar. The slider-style design can also make alignment easier during installation, which helps if you are installing the boards at home.
What People Say
Owners frequently call out the snug fit, solid feel, and OEM-like appearance. Some mention that removing factory bolts may require stronger tools, so an impact wrench can make the job easier.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily errands |
The wide platform gives you a steady step when you are carrying bags, coffee, or kids’ gear. |
|
Older passengers |
The 6.5" platform and textured pads give shorter or less steady riders more foot room. |
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Wet or snowy weather |
Aluminum construction and textured pads help with corrosion resistance and traction. |
Durability
COMNOVA lists aluminum construction, a dual-stage textured black powder coat, and a 500 lb stated load limit. Aluminum is a strong choice for rust resistance, but you should still rinse off salt and touch up any finish chips.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific fit for Toyota Tundra CrewMax models
- 6.5" wide step with molded non-slip pads
- Aluminum construction for better corrosion resistance than bare steel
- Textured dual-stage black powder coat
- Slider-style design for easier fore/aft adjustment during installation
- Bolt-on install with brackets, hardware, and instructions
Check Product Details on Amazon
Binary Star Bed Access Running Boards
If you use your Tundra for camping gear, roof racks, cargo bins, work equipment, or bed access, the Binary Star design solves a problem that normal running boards do not. The rear step gives you a higher standing point near the back of the cab, so you are not always climbing on tires or stretching over the bedside.
The 6" lower steps still work for daily entry, while the e-coating plus powder coating gives the steel extra protection against corrosion. This is the option to consider when access to the bed matters as much as cab entry.
What People Say
Owners in the source article like the fit, heavy-duty feel, clear labeling, and bed-access layout. They also mention that installing brackets first and tightening after alignment gives better results.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
The lower side steps make normal cab entry easier and steadier. |
|
Roof or bed access |
The rear step helps you reach cargo without climbing inside the cab or balancing on the tire. |
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Wet climates |
E-coating, powder coating, and drainage openings help limit water pooling and corrosion risk. |
Durability
Binary Star lists carbon steel construction, e-coating, powder coating, drainage openings, and a 500 lb stated support capacity. The extra coating layers make this a stronger choice if you want steel but worry about weather exposure.
Key Benefits
- Three-step layout with rear bed-access step
- 6" wide lower steps for cab entry
- Carbon steel construction with rust-resistant e-coating and powder coat
- Drainage openings help reduce trapped water
- Vehicle-specific CrewMax fitment
- Includes brackets and labeled hardware
Check Product Details on Amazon
OTHOWE 6.5" CrewMax Running Boards
If you want an easy way to get in and out of your Tundra CrewMax, these OTHOWE 6.5" boards are a practical bolt-on solution. The wide pad gives your whole foot somewhere to land, which is helpful for kids, older passengers, and anyone stepping in with wet boots.
The listing highlights galvanized carbon steel, double black powder coating, anti-slip plastic step pads, and four brackets per side. That bracket count is worth noting because extra support points can help the boards feel more secure when properly installed.
What People Say
Buyers often praise the fit, packaging, straightforward installation, and stable feel. A smaller number mention paint or end-cap wear over time, so regular finish checks are smart in salty or wet climates.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
The wide pad gives you a confident foothold when entering or exiting quickly. |
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Family use |
Kids and shorter passengers get more surface area than they would on a narrow bar. |
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DIY installation |
The included brackets and bolt-on design make home installation more approachable. |
Durability
OTHOWE lists galvanized carbon steel, double powder coating, and a 500 lb stated load capacity. The wide oval shape is better for daily access than aggressive trail clearance, so this is a strong choice for road use and light utility.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific CrewMax fitment
- Wide 6.5" step area for full-foot placement
- Galvanized carbon steel construction
- Anti-slip plastic step pads
- Eight included brackets, four per side
- Slider-style adjustment for easier fit alignment
Check Product Details on Amazon
SMANOW 2-Step Running Boards
If you want easier access to your Tundra CrewMax, these SMANOW running boards are a practical drop-step option. The drop style gives you a lower landing point than many flat boards, which helps if the truck feels tall for kids, shorter passengers, or daily use.
The listing describes carbon steel, a dual-stage textured black powder coat, anti-slip tread, and a bolt-on installation. If you live in a wet or salty climate, plan on inspecting the finish and hardware regularly because coated steel needs maintenance.
What People Say
Many buyers find them straightforward to install and sturdy once tightened. The main caution is long-term finish care in wet or salty regions.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
The lower drop step reduces the climb into the cab. |
|
Weekend trips |
The step gives you a steadier place to stand when loading roof or bed gear. |
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Lifted setups |
The drop-step style helps when larger tires or a lift increase the entry height. |
Durability
SMANOW lists carbon steel construction, textured powder coating, and a 450 lb stated load capacity. It is a good functional choice, but steel boards should be checked for chips, trapped water, and rust after winter road use.
Key Benefits
- CrewMax-specific fitment for compatible Toyota Tundra model years
- Drop-step design for easier entry
- Carbon steel construction with textured black powder coating
- Anti-slip tread pattern
- No-drill installation with brackets and hardware
- Useful for taller trucks and family access
Check Product Details on Amazon
Rough Country BA2 Running Boards (CrewMax)
If you want a clean, no-fuss upgrade from a familiar truck-accessory brand, the Rough Country BA2 boards are worth a close look. The 5" step surface is not as wide as some 6.5" boards, but it gives you a stable place to step without looking oversized.
The listing describes alloy steel, a powder-coated finish, non-slip inserts, and no-drill installation. This option makes sense if you prefer a straightforward steel running board over a more complex two-step or bed-access design.
What People Say
Buyers in the source article highlight easy installation, a grippy foot surface, and a stable feel. A few mention bracket count and installation sequence as things to pay attention to.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
Gives you a dependable side step without a bulky drop-step look. |
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Family runs |
The textured step helps kids and passengers find secure footing. |
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Weekend loading |
Provides a stable platform for reaching roof racks or cargo. |
Durability
Rough Country lists alloy steel construction, powder coating, and a 500 lb stated load limit. Check hardware and touch up coating chips if you drive on salted roads.
Key Benefits
- 5" wide non-slip stepping area
- Vehicle-specific fit for Toyota Tundra CrewMax models in the listing range
- Alloy steel construction with powder-coated finish
- Direct bolt-on installation
- Cleaner profile than many two-step designs
- Good choice for daily access and light utility
Check Product Details on Amazon
AutoBull 6" Two-Step Running Boards (CrewMax)
The AutoBull two-step design is useful if you want a lower step without choosing the YZONA styling. It gives kids, shorter passengers, and older riders a more manageable step-in point, while still adding some lower-body coverage along the rocker panels.
The listing describes two-layer coated carbon steel, black powder coating, and a 36-month warranty. The main thing to watch is bracket alignment, so do not fully tighten the hardware until both boards are positioned evenly.
What People Say
Most feedback is positive around improved access, function, and straightforward installation. Some buyers recommend carefully checking bracket placement and touching up finish chips to reduce surface rust risk.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Family use |
The lower second step helps kids and older passengers climb in with less strain. |
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Daily commutes |
Gives you a consistent step when you are carrying bags or gear. |
|
Light protection |
The rail profile can help shield the lower body from minor road debris and scuffs. |
Durability
AutoBull lists carbon steel construction, a black powder-coated finish, and 36-month warranty coverage. Keep the finish clean and inspect chips after winter or gravel-road use.
Key Benefits
- Two-step drop-down layout
- Vehicle-specific CrewMax fitment
- Carbon steel construction with black powder coating
- Left/right pair with included brackets
- Useful for kids, shorter passengers, and taller trucks
- Warranty coverage stated by the listing
Check Product Details on Amazon
ONINE Tubular 7" Textured Running Board
If you want a rugged-looking step that feels more purposeful than a flat oval board, the ONINE tubular running board is worth a look. The 7" step area gives generous width, while the louvered tread lets dirt and water pass through instead of sitting on the surface.
The listing describes 16-gauge steel, an electrostatic base coat, textured powder coating, factory mounting points, and a stated 500 lb per-side capacity. Because it is more aggressive than a slim board, it may stick out more than OEM-style options.
What People Say
Buyers highlight sturdy construction, good fitment, and a roughly one-hour style install when the hardware is laid out first. Some mention vague instructions and wet-weather noise, so read the listing materials before installation.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
Gives you a wide, textured step for quick entry and exit. |
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Wet or muddy use |
Louvered openings help dirt and water pass through the tread. |
|
Light trail use |
The tubular steel profile may add modest rocker-area protection against light brush and debris. |
Durability
ONINE lists 16-gauge alloy steel, an electrostatic base coat, textured powder finish, and a 500 lb stated load rating. Touch up coating chips and rinse off road salt to protect the steel underneath.
Key Benefits
- 7" wide stepping surface
- 16-gauge alloy steel construction
- Louvered tread lets dirt and water pass through
- Textured black finish with electrostatic base coating
- No-drill installation to factory mounting points
- Rugged tubular style for a more aggressive look
Check Product Details on Amazon
Just-V 4" Drop Down Running Boards
The Just-V boards are for drivers who want a tougher drop-down look rather than a clean OEM-style board. The 4" drop profile can help make cab entry easier without going as low as some deeper two-step designs.
Because this listing could not be fully verified through the available page fetch, confirm the exact year range, cab style, included brackets, and weight-limit details on Amazon before buying. It remains relevant to this article because it is presented as a Tundra CrewMax running-board option in the source content.
What People Say
The source article highlights buyer interest in the factory-mated look, solid step feel, and rocker-panel protection style. Since external verification was limited, treat the listing as a fitment-check item before ordering.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily entry |
The drop-down profile gives you a more reachable step-in point. |
|
Rugged styling |
The nerf-bar shape suits owners who want a tougher truck look. |
|
Light trail use |
The profile may help shield rocker panels from light brush and small debris, but it is not a replacement for dedicated armor. |
Durability
The source article describes iron construction with a sand-textured powder-coated finish and a high stated load capacity. Because full external verification was limited, confirm current specs on the product page before purchase.
Key Benefits
- 4" drop-down profile for easier step-in height
- Non-slip textured surface
- Rugged nerf-bar style
- Designed for Tundra CrewMax fitment according to the source article
- Useful for buyers who prefer off-road styling
- Fitment should be verified on Amazon before ordering
Check Product Details on Amazon
Perfit Liner 6.5" CrewMax Running Boards
The Perfit Liner 6.5" boards are a straightforward option if you want a broad step without a complex rear-access or two-tier shape. They make sense for daily use, family entry, and a clean black finish that does not draw too much attention.
Because the live page could not be fully verified through the available fetch, confirm the exact cab fitment, included brackets, and current dimensions on Amazon before buying. Keep this option on your shortlist if you prefer a simple wide-step design.
What People Say
The source article notes positive feedback around easy installation, good looks, and a sturdy feel. As with other steel boards, re-check hardware after the first few drives.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
How It Helps
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Daily commutes |
Makes hopping in and out less awkward, especially when carrying items. |
|
Family use |
The wide step helps kids and older passengers place their feet more securely. |
|
DIY install |
The source article describes a bolt-on design, but verify the current bracket kit before ordering. |
Durability
The source article describes carbon steel construction and a coated finish. Use normal steel-board maintenance: clean off salt, re-torque hardware, and touch up chips before they spread.
Key Benefits
- Wide 6.5" stepping area
- Simple black running-board look
- Designed for Tundra CrewMax fitment according to the source article
- Good daily-use shape for families
- Source article describes bolt-on installation
- Fitment and current specs should be verified on Amazon before ordering
Check Product Details on Amazon
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Running Boards For My 2023 Toyota Tundra?
Start with cab style. Your 2023 Toyota Tundra CrewMax has four full-size doors, so you need running boards listed for CrewMax, not Double Cab. After fitment, choose by step style: wide flat boards are great for family use, drop steps are better for tall or lifted trucks, and bed-access boards help if you reach cargo or roof racks often.
Next, compare material. Aluminum is lighter and naturally corrosion resistant. Carbon steel and alloy steel can feel heavy-duty, but the finish matters more because chips can expose metal to rust. Look for powder coating, e-coating, drain holes, and clear hardware instructions.
Are These Running Boards Easy To Install?
Most of the running boards in this guide advertise bolt-on installation to factory mounting points, but difficulty can still vary. You may need basic sockets, a torque wrench, and sometimes an impact tool for stubborn factory bolts.
The safest method is to loosely attach all brackets first, set the boards in place, check alignment from front to rear, then tighten everything to the manufacturer’s recommended torque. Re-check the bolts after a few drives.
Do Running Boards Reduce Ground Clearance?
Some do. Wide flat boards usually sit close to the rocker panel, while drop steps hang lower. If you drive off road, over deep snow, or on rough job sites, pay attention to how far the step drops below the cab. A lower step is easier to use, but it can be more exposed to rocks, curbs, and trail obstacles.
How Do I Prevent Rust On Steel Running Boards?
Wash off road salt and mud often, especially around brackets, seams, end caps, and drain holes. Inspect the finish every few months, touch up chips quickly, and re-torque fasteners if the boards loosen. If you live in a salty climate, aluminum boards or steel boards with e-coating plus powder coating are usually the safer choice.
Will Running Boards Void My Truck Warranty?
Installing bolt-on running boards usually should not void your entire vehicle warranty, but poor installation or damage caused by an accessory could affect related claims. Use the correct brackets, avoid drilling unless required by the listing, and have a shop install them if you are unsure.
Buyers Top Picks
When choosing between the top options, focus on the problem you want to solve. YZONA is the strongest all-around choice if you want bold two-step access. COMNOVA is the better everyday value if you want aluminum, rust resistance, and a wide step. Binary Star is the most practical if you use roof racks or need easier bed access. OTHOWE is a strong wide-step pick for families who want a stable full-foot platform.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right running boards for your 2023 Toyota Tundra CrewMax comes down to how you use the truck. If you want the best overall mix of step access, strength, and styling, the YZONA Willow Leaf boards are the top pick. If value and corrosion resistance matter most, COMNOVA’s aluminum boards are the easiest recommendation. If you load gear often, Binary Star’s bed-access design solves a problem most standard boards do not.
Use this guide to match material, step width, drop height, fitment, and finish protection to your real driving needs. Then confirm the Amazon listing’s exact cab and model-year compatibility before you order.
| Product | Image | Best For | Material | Weight Limit | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CrewMax Cab Running Boards Side Steps |
 |
Best overall two-step access | Carbon Steel | 550 Pounds | 84.25 x 10.23 x 8.66 inches | Check Details |
| COMNOVA Aluminum Running Boards Compatible with 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra |
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Best aluminum value | Aluminum | 500 Pounds | 86 x 6.5 x 2 inches | Check Details |
| BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra |
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Best bed and roof access | Carbon Steel | 500 Pounds | 83 x 6 x 6 inches | Check Details |
| 6.5" Running Boards Compatible with 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra |
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Best wide step | Carbon Steel | 500 Pounds | 86 x 6.5 x 2 inches | Check Details |
| Running Boards Compatible with 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra |
 |
Best drop step | Carbon Steel | 450 Pounds | 83 x 4 x 4.7 inches | Check Details |
| Rough Country BA2 Running Boards for Toyota Tundra CrewMax |
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Best no-drill steel option | Alloy Steel | 500 Pounds | 89 x 16.2 x 8.7 inches | Check Details |
| Running Boards Compatible with 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra Crewmax |
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Best two-step protection | Carbon Steel | Check listing | 85.04 x 15.16 x 6.5 inches | Check Details |
| ONINE Tubular 7” Textured Black Running Board |
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Best rugged tubular design | Alloy Steel | 500 Pounds | 85 x 8.7 x 7.9 inches | Check Details |
| Just-V Drop Down Running Boards for Toyota Tundra |
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Best rugged drop-down style | Iron | 550 Pounds | 87 x 7 x 4.6 inches | Check Details |
| Perfit Liner 6.5 Inches Running Boards |
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Best simple wide-step style | Carbon Steel | 550 Pounds | 87 x 6 x 12 inches | Check Details |
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