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what is the difference between a running board and a nerf bar

by Woodrow Thiel Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Running boards provide a flatter and wider surface to place your feet. They are often mounted flush along the length of the vehicle. They may come with non-slip step pads or tread patterns that provide extra grip when entering and exiting the vehicle. Nerf bars feature a round and narrow surface for stepping.Aug 7, 2019

What is the standard size of a nerf bar?

Nerf Bars Running Boards Shape Tubular with a round or oval shape Flat and wide surface Size 2 to 6 inches in diameter 4 to 7 inches in width Length Cab-length Wheel-to-wheel Style Standard nerf bars Sport tubes Standard running boards Lighted running ... 3 more rows ...

What is the difference between Nerf and running boards?

Essentially, running boards will provide a stepping pad that will take up the space of the entire board length. Similarly to that, nerf boards give you a stepping surface on the entry points of your truck but can also extend from wheel to wheel. Now, if you’re interested in details, we suggest you grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and relax.

What is a nerf bar on a pickup truck?

Nerf bars and running boards are essential for those who want a safe area to step onto while exiting or entering a pick-up truck. Both running boards and nerf bars attach to the lower portion of the truck and as such, can be made in different shapes, forms, and material.

What are the best nerf bars and running boards for SUVs?

Cab-length nerf bars and running boards span the entire length of the passenger cabin. They run from behind the front wheel and stop at where the cab doors end. These are highly recommended for full-size SUVs. Wheel-to-wheel nerf bars and running boards extend further than the passenger cab and stretch towards the rear wheel.

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Are nerf bars and running boards the same?

Running boards and nerf bars both make it easier to get in and out of your truck or SUV. The key difference between these two truck steps is that running boards provide a wide, flat step while nerf bars are round or oval in shape with diameters starting at 3 inches.

Why are running boards called nerf bars?

0:402:51Differences Between Nerf Bars, Running Boards, and Rock SlidersYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd they're meant to protect the body and the doors from damage your floors and running boards areMoreAnd they're meant to protect the body and the doors from damage your floors and running boards are useful for a few reasons. Obviously they make getting in and out of the truck or Jeep easier but they

What is the difference between side steps and running boards?

Similar to side steps, running boards perform the same function of adding an extra stepping surface to the vehicle. Running boards tend to be much wider as compared to side steps, and they offer a more comfortable stepping area. They are attached much close to the body of the vehicle, leaving almost no gap in-between.

What is the purpose of running boards?

A running board is a platform attached to a vehicle's doors that helps passengers easily board and leave the car. Running boards are primarily used on trucks and SUVs where users often experience difficulty while trying to enter or exit because of the high ground clearance.

What are nerf bars good for?

Nerf bars are tubular bars that run along the sides of the vehicle. The main purpose of these bars are to provide the driver and passengers with a convenient way to climb in and out of vehicles, especially lifted trucks and tall SUVs.

What does nerf bar stand for?

: a usually tubular steel bumper on some racing cars to keep wheels from touching when cars bump during a race.

How far do running boards stick out?

about 3 inchesSo they only stick out about 3 inches, which is nowhere near wide enough to actually hold any human being's feet. As a result, running boards went from being a useful idea to something you have to step over as you climb into a vehicle that's high off the ground. The next reason I hate running boards: They look stupid.

How much weight can a running board hold?

Most running boards support 250 to 300 pounds, but the beefy Star Armor set of nerf bars with side steps from Tyger Auto is rated at 500 pounds, thanks to a reinforced, truss-like triple tube design.

How much does it cost to have running boards installed?

The most affordable basic running boards range in price from $100 to $300. Those that can withstand higher loads or have more traction might cost up to $500. If you hire someone to install them for you, the cost will range between $50 and $150.

Are running board worth it?

Running boards help block the debris and protect your vehicle from damage. Running boards also help keep the interior of your vehicle clean. They act as a sort of doormat and allow passengers to wipe dirt off their feet before getting into your truck or SUV.

Do running boards prevent rock chips?

Protection from rock chips and other road debris hitting your vehicle. When vehicles move, their wheels kick up all kinds of debris (such as gravel, rocks and more). Having a running board in place can block some of this debris from being thrown high enough to scratch and/or damage doors and side panels.

How do I choose the right running board?

11:1612:38Ultimate Running Board Shopping Guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd they will always offer some type of textured stepping surface on top. Now step bars are designedMoreAnd they will always offer some type of textured stepping surface on top. Now step bars are designed to look aggressive. But they're also functional. You'll still get a nice wide stepping platform.

What is truck nerf bars?

Nerf bars are often spaced away from the body of your truck cab, which distinguishes them visually from the truck cab. They are often tubular or oval shaped and provide a flat, no-slip stepping surfaces at cab doors.

What is a Nerf Side Step?

A nerf bar is a tubular accessory with step pads for each door. A running board is a step platform that runs the length of the cab or wheel to wheel. Side steps are single steps installed at each vehicle door for greater accessibility.

What are the step ups on trucks called?

Side bars are referred to by many names, including nerf bars, step bars and side steps, to name a few. A side bar's primary function is to provide a stepping surface into the vehicle. For this reason, they are generally used on larger vehicles, such as pickup trucks and SUVs.

What is a rocker bar?

Rocker Bar is most effective when used for demolition projects. The 30 in. bar is perfect for large projects and is forged from high quality steel for long-lasting durability. Ergonomically made for easy use and application, along with 2 nail slots for extra versatility.

What is the difference between a running board and a nerf bar?

If you’re buying it strictly for functionality, then a running board might be a better choice. On the contrary, a nerf bar is a bit more subtle and allows you to achieve almost the same functionality, with less visibility. The slip-resistant characteristics are more or less the same, ...

What is a nerf bar?

Unlike running boards, which come in a bigger plethora of materials, nerf bars are made of either steel or aluminum and can hold a maximum of 500lbs.

What are Running Boards?

Furthermore, running boards are made to endure extreme conditions and as such, they’re made slip-resistant in snow, rain, and other extreme environmental conditions.

Why are nerf bars used?

They came straight from the high-speed racing, where nerf bars were used to keep off the aggressive racers at early days of racing. Because of that, nerf bars were and are used as protection. In the aforementioned case, nerf bars were protecting a particular racer ...

What are the sizes of nerf bars?

There are tube, oval, and hooped nerf bars. For example, tube bars come in 3 and 4-inch tubes, while oval nerf bars come in 4, 5, and 6-inch tubes. Hooped bars come with steps cropped out below them in a u-shape. The sizes of hoop bars aren’t in inches but in steps – one, two or three-step sizes are the most common.

How does an electric running board work?

The way electric running boards work is retracting and detracting when needed. When you open the door, the electric running board retracts to allow you to step on it and get in your truck. When you get in and close the door, it automatically detracts inside, so it’s not visible.

What are the pros and cons of running boards?

The great thing about running boards is that they are tailored toward shorter passengers. They include a step-up, which makes it easier to get inside lifted vehicles, such as big transport trucks.

How wide is a Nerf bar?

In general, nerf bars have diameters measuring between 2 to 6 inches while running boards have widths in the range of 4 to 7 inches. Both nerf bars and running boards come in two lengths: cab-length and wheel-to-wheel.

What is the difference between a round and oval nerf bar?

Oval nerf bars provide a wider surface than round nerf bars for better access to the vehicle.

What is a wheel to wheel nerf?

Wheel-to-wheel nerf bars and running boards extend further than the passenger cab and stretch towards the rear wheel. This provides them with an additional function—you can easily access items inside the truck bed from the side of your vehicle or reach any roof/utility racks on top of your vehicle.

What are Nerf bars made of?

Much like running boards, nerf bars are made of single aluminum or steel tube.

How much weight can a Nerf support?

Nerf bars made from dense steel, if installed with heavy-duty mounting brackets, can support a maximum weight of approximately 300 lbs. at a time. Running boards have greater weight capacity because of the support frame that run underneath them. They can carry up to 500 lbs. at a time.

Why do trucks have nerf bars?

In some cases, nerf bars are installed in taller trucks simply to give them a more rugged look.

What is a running board made of?

Most running boards make use of high-strength plastic supported by an integrated aluminum frame. They often come in a matte black or dark grey color. The surface of plastic footboards may have a molded step, while those made from aluminum are often stamped with a tread design to prevent slipping.

What is the difference between a running board and a nerf bar?

According to Auto Anything, running boards generally provide a stepping pad that runs the entire length of the board. Nerf bars, on the other hand, provide a stepping surface at each entry point into your cabin. However, there are numerous styles, sizes and types of nerf bars vs. running boards. It’s important to explore information on each type of accessory to determine which is best for you.

What is nerf bar?

Nerf Bars. Truck manufacturers originally adopted nerf bars from the world of high speed racing. “Nerf bars, which were originally designed to fend off overly aggressive racers in the early days of professional car racing, are often pipe like fixtures that attach to the side of your vehicle.” 4Wheel Online, 2013.

Why do trucks have nerf bars?

On the other hand, nerf bars can easily become slippery in cold, dewy or wet weather conditions.

Why do you need a nerf bar?

The primary purpose for both nerf bars vs. running boards is to help someone easily get in and out of your truck. They both act as a ladder that allows you and your passengers to enter and exit your vehicle mor e easily. Apart from the convenience they offer, they also make your pickup truck appear closer to the ground, giving it a more streamlined look from the side.

How much weight can a Nerf bar hold?

Nerf bars come in a variety of lengths and materials. They’re also usually made of aluminum or steel and can hold up to 500lbs. Some nerf bars offer rubber foot grips at each entryway of your vehicle for extra slip resistance, while other sleeker designs forgo this option.

What is a running board?

Running Boards offer a sufficient, or “running,” amount of foot space for entering or exiting your cabin. They often times will feature non-slip step pads to keep your foot firmly on the step. Most importantly, they are built to resist slipping in rain, snow, and other environmental elements. (Sports Wing, 2017)

Where do running boards attach to a truck?

They both attach to the bottom of the truck , can be made from various materials and come in various lengths. While the function of these truck accessories is similar, they have some important distinctions to consider that may play a role when it comes time to make your decision. According to Auto Anything, running boards generally provide ...

Nerf Bars

Like many other leading-edge accessories, nerf bars came from the racing industry. The truck industry quickly realized that nerf bars could be also used on your favorite 4X4 and look good at the same time.

Running Boards

Unlike its brother, running boards only serve one purpose and that is to help you get in your truck easier. In recent years, running boards have become the favorite for everyone, from popular automakers to the aftermarket industry. On top of that, some running boards can also be motorized.

Running Boards vs Nerf Bars

Now that we've gotten you up to speed on what the key differences between running boards and nerf bars are, let's go over some of the pros and cons of each. Remember, what you want to get out of your truck may not be ideal for the next person and vice-versa.

Nerf Bars

Planning to go do some 4X4-ring? Why not benefit from the added protection that a quality set of nerf bars can offer. They are usually mounted lower on the cab so that they can act as protection.

Running Boards

Running boards are made for the single purpose of helping you get in and out of your vehicle with ease, they are often made from lightweight metal and/or covered in plastic for added grip.

Final Words

No matter the reason why someone would nerf bars or running boards, it is important to know the difference between the two. While the two names are used interchangeably, they are different in both function and design.

What is the difference between a Nerf bar and a running board?

There is no major difference when it comes to the price point for Nerf bars and running boards. Nerf bars are more stylish and sleek as compared to the boards. But if you own a lower vehicle or a compact SUV, then a running board will be more suitable for you as it gives more functionality when it comes to ground clearance. However, if you own a pickup truck, you can opt for Nerf bars. Both of these options are essential to make the entry and exit in the vehicle easy. I hope this article helps you to understand all the features and differences between these accessories completely.

What is a Nerf bar made of?

Design and specifications of Nerf Bar: The bars are usually made of carbon steel or stainless steel. There are other variants of bars that are made from aluminum. These bars are usually available in oval or round shapes. There is a step pad provided on the top of some bars. Also, some companies provide the hoop steps to give a step down closer ...

Why do Nerf bars have hoop steps?

Also, some companies provide the hoop steps to give a step down closer to the ground. Nerf bars generally have an individual step bar for each door on the vehicle. It is designed to mount low on the vehicle so that there is less ground clearance. Side bars are narrower as compared to the running boards.

How far does a running board drop down?

The running board runs the length of the vehicle or long enough to provide a stepping surface for the car. It drops down about three inches from the vehicle’s pinch weld that makes it easy to enter and exit the car. Some companies offer models in electric running boards too.

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29 hours ago Running Boards offer a sufficient, or “running,” amount of foot space for entering or exiting your cabin. These boards feature non-slip step pads to keep your foot firmly on the step. They are …

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