7 Best Running Boards for 5th Gen RAM 1500 in 2026 (Heavy-Duty & Easy Install)

If you own a 5th Gen RAM 1500, you already know this truck sits tall, looks aggressive, and feels built for work. But climbing in and out every day? That’s where most owners start feeling the pain — muddy boots, kids struggling to step up, sliding in rain, and that awkward hop every morning. I’ve been there. After testing different styles on daily drivers and weekend haulers, one thing is clear: not all running boards are created equal.

Some flex under weight. Some rust within one winter. Others look good in photos but feel slippery in real life. That’s exactly why this guide exists. We didn’t just scroll listings — we checked real owner feedback, load ratings, material quality, step width, mounting strength, weather resistance, and install difficulty to find the ones that actually work on the road.

Our Top 3 Picks (If You Want the Best Right Away)

• Best Overall Value: Trumgeta 6″ EZ Side Steps — Rock-solid aluminum build, wide stepping surface, and crazy easy bolt-on install.
• Best Power Running Board: AMP Research PowerStep Vision — Premium retractable design with LED lighting for serious daily use.
• Best Budget Heavy-Duty Option: YITAMOTOR 6.5” Running Boards — Wide platform, strong steel frame, and great grip for the price.

If you want something that looks good, supports real weight, installs without headache, and actually improves daily driving comfort — you’re in the right place.

Now let’s break down the best running boards for 5th Gen RAM 1500 in 2026, based on real-world use, not marketing promises.

Best Running Boards for 5th Gen RAM 1500 4×4 in 2026 (Top Tested Picks)

#1. Trumgeta 6″ EZ Side Steps — Best Overall for Daily Driving

#2. YITAMOTOR 6.5” Running Boards — Best Wide-Step Budget Choice

#3. 4PCS EZ Side Steps Set — Best Value Multi-Panel Setup

#4. AMP Research PowerStep Vision — Best Premium Electric Running Board

#5. Rough Country RPT2 Running Boards — Best Low-Profile Off-Road Style

#6. Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards — Best Heavy-Duty Steel Build

#7. Black Horse Premium Running Boards — Best OEM-Style Look Upgrade

How We Chose the Best Running Boards for 5th Gen RAM 1500

Let’s be honest — anyone can throw together a “top 7” list by copying Amazon ratings. That’s not what we did here.

This list was built the same way real truck owners make buying decisions: by looking at what actually holds up on the road, not what looks good in studio photos.

First, we filtered out anything that wasn’t a proper fit for the 5th Gen RAM 1500 Crew Cab platform. No universal junk. No “might fit” hardware. Every pick here is designed to bolt up correctly without drilling nightmares or alignment issues.

Next came real-world strength testing logic. We prioritized running boards with proven load ratings (most above 600 lbs per side), reinforced mounting brackets, and materials that don’t twist when you step on them with work boots or muddy gear. If a board flexes under pressure, it didn’t make the list.

Then we focused on daily usability. Step width matters. Narrow bars look cool but feel sketchy in rain or snow. That’s why wider platforms like 6” and 6.5” designs ranked higher. More foot contact = better balance = less slipping.

Weather resistance was another deal breaker. RAM trucks see dust, salt, rain, and highway grime. We looked for powder-coated finishes, rust-resistant steel, aluminum construction, sealed electronics on power steps, and real feedback from long-term owners who’ve run these boards through winters and off-road trips.

Installation experience also mattered more than people think. Some boards look great but require half a day, custom drilling, or extra hardware runs. We favored setups that bolt directly to factory mounting points with clear instructions and proper hardware included.

Finally, we separated hype from value. Just because something is expensive doesn’t mean it’s better. That’s why this list includes:

• Premium electric options for luxury builds
• Heavy-duty steel boards for work trucks
• Budget-friendly wide-step choices for daily drivers

Different trucks. Different needs. Same goal: safe entry, solid support, long-term durability.

If a running board didn’t meet real truck-owner standards — strength, fitment, grip, weather resistance, and install ease — it didn’t make this guide. Simple as that.

#1. Trumgeta 6″ EZ Side Steps (Crew Cab 2019–2026)

The first thing you notice with these steps isn’t the look — it’s how natural they feel under your foot. That wide 6-inch platform gives you actual space to plant your boot instead of balancing on a skinny bar. In rain, dust, or muddy jobsite conditions, the textured surface grips better than expected (no awkward slips, no “hold the door and pray” moments).

Installation is where Trumgeta quietly wins a lot of owners over. Everything lines up with factory mounting holes. No drilling, no trimming, no crawling back under the truck three times because something didn’t match. With basic hand tools and about an hour of time, you can bolt these on solo. That’s not marketing talk — it’s the same feedback repeated by real RAM owners who didn’t want to pay shop labor.

On the road, they sit tight against the rocker panels instead of hanging low. That matters. You keep your factory ground clearance, avoid scraping on steep driveways, and still get protection from road spray and debris. Visually, they blend in cleanly — not flashy, not bulky — just solid and purposeful, the way a RAM accessory should look.

Why This Made Our Top Recommendation List: We included these because they hit the sweet spot most RAM 1500 owners actually want: strong enough for daily abuse, light enough not to drag your truck down, wide enough for real stepping comfort, and simple enough to install without headaches. For most drivers — commuters, families, weekend haulers — this setup delivers the best balance of durability, comfort, and value.

Installation Tip From Experience: Lay out all brackets and hardware before lifting anything onto the truck. Tighten bolts loosely first, align both sides evenly, then torque everything down at the end. This keeps the boards perfectly straight and prevents door clearance issues.

#2. YITAMOTOR 6.5″ Running Boards (Crew Cab 2019–2026)

These are the boards you buy when you want maximum stepping comfort without spending premium money. That 6.5-inch platform makes a noticeable difference the first time you step in. Your foot doesn’t hang off the edge, kids climb up without slipping, and muddy boots stay planted instead of sliding around. It feels more like stepping onto a flat stair than balancing on a bar.

Installation is another reason these sell so well. The slide-mount design lines up with factory points, so there’s no drilling drama. Most owners finish in under an hour, some in 30–40 minutes if they’ve handled truck accessories before. Everything bolts in cleanly, and once tightened properly, the boards sit stable against the frame with a solid, confidence-inspiring feel.

On the durability side, YITAMOTOR did things right where it counts. Aluminum construction keeps weight reasonable while resisting corrosion. Stainless hardware means fewer rust headaches down the road. The black textured finish holds up well under sun exposure and road grime, and visually it gives your RAM a tougher, more planted stance without going overboard on styling.

Why This Earned a Spot in Our Lineup: We recommend these because they deliver serious value per dollar. You get wide stepping space, proper vehicle fitment, easy installation, and a strong daily-use platform — all at a price point that makes sense for most truck owners. If you want functional upgrades without emptying your wallet, this is one of the smartest buys for a 5th Gen RAM.

Installation Insight Worth Knowing: After mounting, recheck bracket bolts after your first week of driving. The hardware can settle slightly during early use, and a quick retightening keeps everything rock-solid long term.

#3. Trumgeta 4PCS EZ Side Steps (Crew Cab 2019–2026)

These aren’t your typical full-length running boards — and that’s exactly why some RAM owners love them. Instead of one long bar, you get four individual step pads positioned where you actually step in. Front door, rear door, both sides covered. It feels more intentional, more practical, especially if passengers climb in and out at different spots.

Once mounted, the steel build immediately stands out. There’s no hollow “tin can” sound when you step on them. They feel planted. Solid. The kind of hardware you expect on a work truck. For daily use — groceries, tools, kids, muddy boots — they hold weight without flexing or wobbling.

Installation stays simple. Everything lines up with factory holes, so there’s no measuring, drilling, or improvising brackets. Most owners finish within an hour and walk away with a setup that looks clean and purposeful. The black finish adds a subtle off-road vibe without making the truck look over-accessorized.

Why This Option Deserves Attention: We included this setup for drivers who want functional step access without the bulk of full-length boards. It’s a great fit if you prefer a cleaner side profile, want to preserve maximum ground clearance, and still need reliable entry support for daily driving. Simple design, strong build, and straightforward installation — that’s the appeal here.

Installation Insight Worth Knowing: Before fully tightening, close and open both doors to double-check clearance around the step placement. Small adjustments during install make a big difference in long-term comfort and door alignment.

#4. AMP Research PowerStep Vision (Electric Retractable Steps)

This is not a “step bar” — this is a technology upgrade for your truck. The moment you open the door and the PowerStep drops down smoothly, you understand why owners rave about it. No bending, no climbing awkwardly, no permanent board hanging low. When the door closes, the step tucks itself back under the body like it was never there.

The lighting system is where the Vision version separates itself from regular power steps. Full-length LED glow lights illuminate the ground when you step out at night, then fade into an accent mode that adds a clean, modern look. It’s not just about style — it genuinely improves nighttime safety, especially in dark parking lots, campsites, or job sites.

Then there’s the control side. With the SmartSeries app, you can manually deploy the steps, adjust lighting behavior, and fine-tune how the system reacts. It feels less like an accessory and more like a factory-installed feature. Build quality also matches the price tag — heavy-duty construction, solid motor operation, and components designed to survive real truck use, not just showroom conditions.

Why This Earns Its Premium Spot: We recommend this for RAM owners who want maximum convenience, clean aesthetics, and high-end functionality. If you daily drive your truck, carry passengers often, or simply want the smoothest entry system available, nothing on this list matches this level of refinement. It’s expensive, yes — but it’s also in a completely different category.

Fitment Note Worth Checking: Before ordering, confirm compatibility with your exact model year and body style. RAM platform updates can affect mounting points, and verifying fitment avoids installation surprises.

#5. Rough Country RPT2 Running Boards (Crew Cab 2019–2025)

If you want your RAM to look like it actually belongs on dirt trails and not just mall parking lots, these boards deliver that vibe instantly. The slim, raptor-style profile hugs the body, giving the truck a tougher stance without looking bulky or oversized. On lifted setups, they blend in perfectly instead of sticking out like an afterthought.

Stepping on them feels secure — and that’s not marketing fluff. The wide 6.75-inch platform combined with the dimpled grip pattern keeps your boots locked in place, even when the surface is wet or dusty. For drivers who haul gear, tow trailers, or climb in and out multiple times a day, that extra grip becomes something you appreciate fast.

Build quality is where Rough Country earns its reputation. These boards are heavy, solid, and clearly built for abuse. The steel construction paired with the powder-coated finish stands up well to road salt, rain, and off-road grime. Once installed, there’s no flex, no rattling — just a planted, confidence-inspiring feel every time you step up.

Why This Pick Makes Sense for Certain Builds: We recommend the RPT2 for RAM owners who want maximum toughness and aggressive styling without going electric or oversized. If your truck sees dirt roads, job sites, towing duty, or weekend trail runs, this setup offers the strength and grip that lighter aluminum boards can’t always match.

Fitment Tip Before Buying: Since these are officially listed for 2019–2025 models, double-check compatibility with your exact year before ordering. RAM kept the same body generation, but confirming saves installation headaches.

#6. Tyger Auto 6″ Riser Running Boards (Crew Cab)

These boards are built for owners who want strength without screaming “aftermarket.” The design stays close to the truck body, giving your RAM a clean OEM-style look while still delivering serious stepping comfort. That wide platform makes daily entry easy — whether you’re hopping in after work, loading gear, or helping passengers climb up.

What stands out immediately is the solid feel. When you step on these, there’s no hollow flex, no cheap vibration. The triangular aluminum tubing design spreads weight evenly, which is why Tyger can confidently rate these at 500 pounds. For heavier drivers, work boots, tool bags, or repeated daily use, that extra strength matters more than flashy styling.

Installation is refreshingly straightforward. Everything lines up with factory mounting points on most setups, and many owners finish in under an hour. Once mounted, the boards sit high enough to preserve good ground clearance while still giving you a comfortable step height — a balance that’s hard to get right, but Tyger manages it well.

Why This Option Belongs on This List: We included this model for RAM owners who want maximum load capacity, long-term durability, and a subtle factory appearance. If you treat your truck like a tool — not just a showpiece — these boards deliver reliability without unnecessary complexity or gimmicks.

Fitment Detail Worth Double-Checking: These are designed specifically for Crew Cab setups. Before ordering, confirm your cab configuration and model year to avoid compatibility issues.

#7. Black Horse PREMIUM Running Boards (Crew Cab 2019–2025)

These boards are built for RAM owners who care about how their truck looks just as much as how it works. The first thing you notice is the clean design — matte black body with subtle stainless trim that gives off a factory-upgrade vibe instead of aftermarket flash. Park next to stock trucks and the difference is obvious, but not overdone.

Underfoot, the 5-inch stepping surface feels natural and comfortable. It’s wide enough for stable entry without making the side profile bulky. For daily driving, grocery runs, office commutes, or family use, it hits that sweet spot between style and function. The aluminum construction keeps weight reasonable while still feeling solid when stepping up.

Installation stays stress-free. Everything lines up with factory holes, hardware is included, and there’s no drilling or custom fitting required. Once mounted, the boards sit clean against the body, following the truck’s lines instead of hanging awkwardly. It’s the kind of upgrade that looks intentional — like it came from the factory that way.

Why This Made Our Final Pick: We included this model for drivers who want a premium appearance without jumping into electric step territory. If you prefer a refined OEM-style look, solid aluminum build, and straightforward installation, this is one of the cleanest options available for the 5th Gen RAM.

Fitment Reminder Before Ordering: These boards are designed for the new body style RAM 1500 Crew Cab and do not fit the Classic models. Double-check your trim and year before checkout to avoid compatibility issues.

5th Gen RAM 1500 Running Boards Comparison (Specs, Strength & Fitment)

Which Running Board Should You Actually Buy? (Quick Decision Guide)

Let’s make this simple. You don’t need seven options in your head. You need one right choice for your RAM and your usage. Here’s the real breakdown based on how truck owners actually use their vehicles:

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If You Want the Best Overall Daily Setup

Go With: Trumgeta 6″ EZ Side Steps
This is the “set it and forget it” option. Strong, wide enough, easy to install, no ground clearance drama. Perfect if your RAM is your daily driver, family hauler, or weekend trip truck.

If You Want Maximum Value Without Cheap Feel

Go With: YITAMOTOR 6.5″ Running Boards
Wider step, solid build, lower price. Ideal for buyers who want comfort and grip but don’t want to spend premium money. This is the smart wallet-friendly choice.

If You Want Luxury-Level Convenience

Go With: AMP Research PowerStep Vision
If you open your door and want the step to come to you — this is it. Auto deploy, LED lighting, smartphone control. Expensive? Yes. Worth it for daily comfort? Also yes.

If Your RAM Is Lifted Or Used Off-Road

Go With: Rough Country RPT2
Aggressive look. Serious grip. Heavy steel build. These are made for trucks that see dirt, mud, job sites, and rough terrain.

If You Want Pure Strength And Work-Use Reliability

Go With: Tyger Auto 6″ Riser
High weight capacity, factory-style design, built for repeated daily use. Perfect for work trucks and heavy-duty routines.

If You Want OEM-Style Premium Appearance

Go With: Black Horse Premium Running Boards
Clean lines. Factory vibe. Subtle upgrade that looks like it belongs on the truck from day one.

One Honest Tip Before You Click Buy

Before ordering anything, confirm two things:

1. Your cab type (Crew Cab vs Classic vs Quad Cab)
2. Your exact model year compatibility

Most “wrong product returns” happen because buyers skip this step. Two minutes of checking saves hours of headache.

Final Word From Real Truck Owners

Running boards aren’t just accessories — they change how you use your truck every single day. Better entry. Less slipping. Easier loading. More comfort. Once you install a good set, you’ll wonder how you lived without them.

Choose based on how you drive, where you drive, and who climbs into your RAM with you — not just price.

Read This Before You Choose Your Running Boards

Most RAM owners don’t regret buying running boards.
They regret buying the wrong ones.

On the first day, everything looks fine. New hardware. Fresh black finish. Clean install photos. Then real life starts. Mud on boots. Kids jumping in. Groceries. Work gear. Rain. Speed bumps. Steep driveways. Six months later is when the truth shows up.

Here’s what actually decides whether your purchase feels smart… or feels wasted.

Width Is Comfort, Not Style

Narrow boards look aggressive in pictures. In daily use, they feel awkward. Your foot hangs off the edge. Balance becomes sketchy in rain. That’s why wider platforms quietly dominate owner satisfaction. More surface area means your body feels stable stepping in. It sounds small. It isn’t.

You notice it every single time you open the door.

Weight Rating Is About Confidence

The number isn’t there to impress you. It’s there to tell you how strong the mounting system really is.

Higher ratings usually mean thicker steel brackets, stronger welds, and better load distribution. What that translates to in real life is simple: less flex, less creaking, less movement when you step up. When a board feels solid under your weight, you trust it. That trust matters more than brand names.

Ground Clearance Becomes Important After You Install

This is something most buyers only learn the hard way.

Boards that hang too low start scraping on speed bumps. You feel them on steep parking lot ramps. You hear them on uneven roads. Slim designs that tuck close to the rocker panel keep your RAM usable the way a truck should be used. Clearance isn’t just for off-road guys. It affects daily driving.

Installation Quality Predicts Long-Term Happiness

When a running board lines up perfectly with factory mounting points, that’s not luck. That’s engineering.

Good fitment usually means fewer rattles, no door clearance issues, no weird angles, no “why does this feel loose” moments months later. A clean install today often means fewer problems tomorrow.

How You Use Your Truck Should Decide Everything

There is no universal “best” running board.

If your RAM is a daily driver with family riding along, comfort and wide steps matter most.
If you run job sites or tow regularly, strength and weight rating come first.
If you built a lifted truck, clearance and grip matter more than looks.
If you want a clean premium build, design and integration become important.

Buying based on photos alone is how people end up replacing boards a year later.

The Honest Reality

Once installed, running boards become part of your routine. You step on them every morning. You rely on them when your hands are full. You expect them to hold up when the weather turns bad.

That’s why the right choice doesn’t feel exciting for one day.
It feels right for years.

What Nobody Tells You About Living With Running Boards

Buying running boards is easy. Living with them every day is where the real test begins.

At first, every product feels fine. The problem shows up later — when the novelty fades and routine takes over. When you’re late for work. When it’s raining. When your hands are full. When someone else climbs into your truck and misses the step because it’s too narrow or too high.

That’s when you realize running boards aren’t just accessories. They change how your truck behaves in daily life.

A good set makes entry natural. You don’t think about it. Your foot finds the step automatically. You step in without shifting your weight. That’s comfort you feel without noticing.

A bad set makes you adjust your movement every time. You hesitate. You balance. You look down before stepping. That small friction repeats every single day.

Over months, that difference becomes obvious.

Another thing most buyers ignore is how boards age. Sun exposure fades cheap coatings. Road salt eats weak hardware. Poor brackets loosen over time. What looks tough on day one can feel tired by year one. That’s why material choice, mounting design, and finish quality matter more than flashy descriptions.

There’s also resale value. Clean, solid running boards actually help your truck hold value. Rattling, rusty, bent ones do the opposite. Future buyers notice these details, even if they don’t say it out loud.

In short, this isn’t about choosing something that looks good today.
It’s about choosing something that still feels right after thousands of door opens.

That’s the standard we used when putting this list together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts From Someone Who Actually Drives These Trucks

At the end of the day, running boards aren’t about showing off. They’re about making your RAM easier to live with.

It’s the small moments that matter — stepping in without thinking, not slipping when it rains, watching your kid climb up without struggling, loading gear without awkward balancing. Those little wins add up. That’s when you realize the upgrade was worth it.

There’s no “perfect” running board for everyone. There is only the right one for how you use your truck. Daily commuting. Job site work. Weekend trips. Family hauling. Off-road fun. Each one needs something slightly different.

If this guide helped you narrow that down, then it did its job.

Pick the setup that matches your lifestyle, double-check your cab fitment, take your time with installation, and enjoy the upgrade. Because once you install a good set of running boards, you don’t think about them anymore.

They just work.
And that’s exactly how truck accessories should be.

Why Trust Motoraxle?

At Motoraxle, we don’t recommend parts based on hype or random star ratings. Every product in this guide was selected after checking real owner feedback, installation difficulty, long-term durability reports, material quality, and fitment accuracy for the 5th Gen RAM 1500 platform.

We focus on what actually matters to truck owners — daily usability, safety, strength, and value over time. Our goal isn’t to push products. It’s to help you make confident buying decisions that you won’t regret six months down the road.

You can see exactly how we research, test, and evaluate products in our full review process here:

We believe transparency builds trust. That’s why our recommendations are based on real-world performance, not marketing promises.