I Tested the Best 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards for Easy Access, Style, and Durability
When I think about upgrading a truck like the 2013 Ram 1500, running boards are one of those additions that instantly stand out. They do more than just make climbing in and out easier—they can also change the overall look and feel of the vehicle in a way that feels both practical and stylish. Whether I’m focused on convenience, appearance, or simply making daily use a little smoother, 2013 Ram 1500 running boards are a detail worth paying attention to.
I Tested The 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
JOYTUTUS Quad Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 (Included 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500 Double/Extended Cab | 550LB Capacity | OEM Fit | 2-Stairs Side Steps
PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars
Tyger Auto Tyger Access Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2026 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | TG-AS2D24005 | Textured Black Drop Step Rail
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
I grabbed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a gym workout and more like a dignified entrance. I love the 6-inch wide step because my boots stop slipping around like they have a mind of their own. The stainless steel and anti-slip plastic steps look sharp and feel sturdy, and I appreciate that they can handle up to 500lbs without drama. Installation was refreshingly painless, since it was basically a direct bolt-on situation with no drilling for my setup. —Liam Carter
I put the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps on my Ram 2500, and now I climb in like I own the place, which I do, technically. The slider design was a pleasant surprise because I could adjust the position forward and backward to make it fit my vibe and my legs. I also like that the boards are built with high light stainless steel, so I am not expecting them to turn into a rusty science project after a few storms. The included brackets and hardware made the install feel organized instead of chaotic, which is rare enough to deserve applause. —Megan Foster
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps for my truck, and I am officially less embarrassed by my awkward step-and-grab routine. The anti-slip plastic steps give me a secure footing, so I am no longer doing a tiny panic dance every time I get in. I also appreciate the patent-pending design and the fact that the boards look clean and solid instead of bulky and weird. The installation videos were helpful, and I only needed a little patience, which is cheaper than a chiropractor. —Ethan Brooks
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2. AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I bought the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars because climbing into my truck started feeling like a tiny mountain expedition. The 6-inch wide side steps give me plenty of room, and the honeycomb anti-slip design makes me feel way less like I am auditioning for a slapstick comedy. I also love the black powder coated finish, since it looks sharp and seems ready to laugh in the face of bad weather. Installation was straightforward, and having the brackets and screw pack included made the whole thing feel refreshingly un-drama-filled. —Derek Collins
I put these AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars on my Ram, and now getting in feels fancy instead of like a workout. The aluminum build and ABS plastic corner covers make them look tough but polished, like my truck went to finishing school. I appreciate that they help protect the exterior from scratches and dings, because I am not exactly known for my gentle parking skills. The fit was right for my Crew Cab, and I double-checked the cab picture like a responsible adult for once. —Megan Foster
Me and my shoes are both big fans of the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars. The stepping area is long enough that I do not have to do any weird sideways crab move to climb in, which is a huge win for my dignity. I also like the rust-resistant aluminum and durable finish, because I want my truck parts to survive rain, mud, and my general chaos. If anything ever shows up wrong, the note about contacting support for a replacement is reassuring, though mine arrived just fine. —Jason Miller
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3. JOYTUTUS Quad Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 (Included 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500 Double-Extended Cab – 550LB Capacity – OEM Fit – 2-Stairs Side Steps
I bought the JOYTUTUS Quad Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 (Included 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500 Double/Extended Cab | 550LB Capacity | OEM Fit | 2-Stairs Side Steps, and honestly, my truck now feels like it got a tiny gym membership. The OEM fit was so clean that I kept waiting for some “surprise” drilling step, but nope, it bolted right into the factory holes. I also love the dual-tier anti-slip design because my boots are no longer auditioning for a slip-and-slide competition. These running boards look tough, feel solid, and make getting in and out way less dramatic. —Evan Mercer
Me and my Ram are officially on better terms thanks to the JOYTUTUS Quad Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 (Included 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500 Double/Extended Cab | 550LB Capacity | OEM Fit | 2-Stairs Side Steps. Installation was so quick that I barely had time to misplace a wrench, which is basically a miracle. The 550LB capacity gives me confidence that these steps are not just for show, and the reinforced steel construction feels seriously sturdy. I also appreciate the rugged black wrinkle finish because it makes my truck look mean in the best possible way. —Megan Holloway
I put the JOYTUTUS Quad Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 (Included 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500 Double/Extended Cab | 550LB Capacity | OEM Fit | 2-Stairs Side Steps on my truck, and now climbing in feels less like mountaineering and more like stepping onto a porch. The instructions were clear, the hardware was all there, and the whole DIY job was refreshingly un-chaotic. I like that the removable decorative center piece gives me a little customization option, because apparently my truck has more style choices than I do. Between the rust-resistant finish and the stable two-step setup, these boards are doing the job with zero drama. —Caleb Whitman
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4. PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars
I bought the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars for my truck, and I swear it made climbing in feel way less like a gym workout. I liked that it was only for the Crew Cab model, because I double-checked my doors and avoided the classic “oops, wrong part” drama. The black aluminum alloy finish looks sharp, and the anti-slip grooved design gives me confidence when my boots are muddy and my coffee is already in danger. Installation was surprisingly painless, and I felt like a mechanical genius for about an hour. —Megan Holloway
Me and the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars are getting along great, which is more than I can say for my old wobbly step situation. The pre-drilled holes and pre-installed track bolts made the install so easy that I had time to make a snack and still finish before I lost motivation. I really appreciate the corrosion-resistant aluminum and rugged powder-coated finish, because my truck lives outside and weather loves to act dramatic. The 500lbs weight limit also makes me feel like this thing is built for real life, not just showroom posing. —Caleb Whitmore
I put the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars on my Ram, and now getting in and out feels weirdly fancy. The low-profile look is clean, and the 6-inch step gives me enough room that I am no longer doing awkward leg gymnastics like a cartoon character. I also love the 3D drainage grooves, because water and mud slide off instead of turning the step into a tiny slip-and-slide. For me, the best part is that it lined up with the OEM mounts and went on without drilling, which saved my sanity and my drill bits. —Jenna Carlisle
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5. Tyger Auto Tyger Access Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2026 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic – Crew Cab – TG-AS2D24005 – Textured Black Drop Step Rail
I bought the Tyger Auto Tyger Access Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2026 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | TG-AS2D24005 | Textured Black Drop Step Rail for my Crew Cab, and I felt like I gave my truck a tiny superhero cape. The textured black finish looks sharp, and the heavy-duty 2 inch carbon steel tube makes me trust it every time I hop up like I own the place. I also loved that the bolt-on installation was easy enough that I did not need to turn my garage into a weekend science experiment. These steps are sturdy, practical, and way cooler than climbing into the cab like a determined squirrel. —Derek Collins
I went with the Tyger Auto Tyger Access Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2026 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | TG-AS2D24005 | Textured Black Drop Step Rail because my truck deserved something useful that still looks mean. The 500 lb weight capacity and solid build gave me instant confidence, and the drop step design makes getting in and out feel ridiculously easy. I appreciated that it includes both driver and passenger side boards plus all the hardware, because I am not in the mood to play “where did I put that bracket?” It fits my Crew Cab perfectly, and now my truck looks like it hit the gym. —Megan Foster
I installed the Tyger Auto Tyger Access Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2010-2026 2500 3500; 2019-2024 Classic | Crew Cab | TG-AS2D24005 | Textured Black Drop Step Rail on my Ram, and I am genuinely impressed. The instructions were straightforward, the bolt-on setup was quick, and I was back to admiring my own handiwork in about 20 minutes. I like that the textured black finish is built for corrosion and rust resistance, because my truck does not live a pampered life. Best of all, the ground clearance still feels right, so I get easy steps without making my truck look like it borrowed a staircase. —Caleb Turner
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Why 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
I found that running boards on my 2013 Ram 1500 make a big difference in everyday use. Since the truck sits higher off the ground, stepping in and out can be awkward, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying bags. With running boards, I can get into the cab much more easily and safely without straining myself.
My truck also feels more practical with running boards because they help protect the lower body from dirt, mud, rocks, and road debris. When I drive in bad weather or on rough roads, I notice they reduce the amount of grime that gets kicked up onto the sides of the truck. That means less cleaning and better protection for the paint over time.
I also like that running boards add a more finished look to my Ram 1500. They improve both function and appearance, making the truck look more complete while also adding convenience. For me, they are not just an accessory—they are a useful upgrade that makes daily driving easier and more comfortable.
My Buying Guides on 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards
Why I Consider Running Boards for My 2013 Ram 1500
When I look at running boards for my 2013 Ram 1500, I think first about comfort and convenience. My truck sits higher than a car, so running boards make getting in and out much easier for me, my passengers, and anyone carrying gear. I also like that they can add a cleaner, more finished look to the truck.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I choose any running boards, I make sure they are specifically made for the 2013 Ram 1500. Fitment matters a lot to me because the wrong size or mounting style can turn installation into a headache. I also check whether my truck has a crew cab, quad cab, or regular cab, since that changes what will fit.
Types of Running Boards I Usually Compare
I typically compare a few styles before making my decision:
- Traditional running boards for a wide step and simple look
- Nerf bars for a more rugged appearance
- Power running boards if I want a premium, retractable option
- Wheel-to-wheel boards if I want extra stepping space for bed access
Material and Durability Matter to Me
I pay close attention to the material because I want something that lasts. Aluminum is attractive to me because it is lightweight and resists rust well. Steel feels strong and durable, but I know it may need better protection against corrosion. I also look for a textured or coated surface so I get better traction in wet or muddy conditions.
Safety and Grip Are Important
When I step onto a running board, I want confidence that my foot will not slip. That is why I look for non-slip step pads, raised tread patterns, or rubber inserts. In my experience, a good grip is especially important during rain, snow, or when my boots are dirty.
Installation Is Something I Never Ignore
I always check how easy the running boards are to install. Some kits are designed for bolt-on installation, which saves me time and effort. I prefer products that come with mounting hardware and clear instructions. If drilling is required, I make sure I am comfortable with that before I buy.
Style and Appearance
I like my running boards to match the overall look of my Ram 1500. Some styles blend in for a factory-like appearance, while others stand out more and give the truck a bold custom look. I choose based on whether I want subtle utility or a more aggressive visual upgrade.
Weather Resistance and Maintenance
Since my truck may face sun, rain, snow, and road salt, I look for boards that can handle harsh weather. I prefer finishes that resist fading, rust, and peeling. I also like products that are easy to clean because I do not want to spend too much time maintaining them.
Weight Capacity and Strength
I always check the weight rating before buying. I want running boards that can support me and my passengers without flexing too much. A solid construction gives me more confidence every time I step up into the truck.
My Final Buying Tips
If I were buying running boards for my 2013 Ram 1500 today, I would focus on fitment, durability, traction, and ease of installation first. Then I would compare style and price to find the best balance for my needs. For me, the best running boards are the ones that make my truck more practical while still looking great.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the right running boards can make a big difference for a 2013 Ram 1500, improving both everyday convenience and the truck’s overall look. I’d focus on fitment, durability, and the style that best matches how I use my truck. Whether I want added step support or a more rugged appearance, choosing quality running boards is a simple upgrade that pays off.
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