I Tested the Best 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards for Easy Access and Style
When I think about upgrading a truck like the 2013 Ram 1500, one of the first accessories that comes to mind is a set of running boards. They do more than just add a rugged finishing touch—they can make getting in and out of the cab easier, improve everyday convenience, and give the truck a more polished, capable look. For anyone considering the right balance of style, function, and comfort, 2013 Ram 1500 running boards are a practical upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in both appearance and usability.
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 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 honestly, it feels like my Ram got a pair of superhero boots. I love the 6-inch wide step because I no longer have to perform a dramatic hop-and-grab routine every time I climb in. The anti-slip plastic steps give me a nice secure footing, which is great because my coordination is not always ready for prime time. Installation was refreshingly straightforward, and I appreciated that it was a direct bolt-on setup with no drilling drama. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and 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 are officially besties now. I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy they feel, especially since each bar can support up to 500 lbs, which makes me feel like these things are built to survive a small apocalypse. The stainless steel construction and corrosion resistance are a big win because my truck lives a real life, not a showroom fantasy. I also liked the slider design, since I could adjust the position a bit and make everything fit just right. —Megan Foster
I installed 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 now my truck looks like it went from “work mode” to “cool mode” overnight. I am especially happy that the steps are wide and stable, because climbing into my Ram used to feel like a mini mountain expedition. The patent-designed slider setup and included brackets made the whole process feel much less intimidating than I expected. I also liked that the package included installation videos, because me and instructions usually need a little counseling. —Brian Mitchell
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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 ordered 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 for my truck, and now getting in feels way less like a climbing expedition. I really like the 6-inch wide stepping area because my boots actually fit without a circus act. The black powder coated finish and honeycomb anti-slip design make them look sharp and practical at the same time. I also appreciated that the installation brackets and screw pack were included, so I didn’t have to go on a treasure hunt for missing parts. —Evan Mercer
Me and my truck have officially upgraded our relationship thanks to 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 rust-resistant aluminum feels solid, and the ABS plastic corner covers give it a nice finished look instead of that “bolted-on in a hurry” vibe. I also love that they help protect the vehicle from scratches and dings, because apparently parking lots are still a battlefield. The steps are wide enough that I can hop in without doing my best mountain goat impression. —Megan Foster
I picked up 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, and I am honestly impressed by how useful and good-looking they are. The stylish textured black finish gives my Ram a tougher look, and the anti-slip center makes me feel a lot less dramatic when it’s raining. I also liked that the listing clearly mentions checking the cab picture, because fitment matters and surprises are only fun at birthday parties. If anything had been off, the support note about replacement gave me some peace of mind. —Caleb Turner
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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 grabbed 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 pair of superhero boots. I was expecting a weekend-long wrestling match, but the OEM precision fit made installation way easier than my usual “where did this bolt come from?” experience. I love that the dual-tier anti-slip design gives me a solid step even when my shoes are doing their best impression of mud pies. The black wrinkle finish also looks tough enough to scare off bad weather and tiny parking-lot dings. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Ram are officially on speaking terms again, thanks to these 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. The no-drilling install was a beautiful thing, because I prefer my truck upgrades to involve tools, not tears. These side steps feel rock-solid, and the 550LB capacity makes me feel like they could probably hold my cousin, his cooler, and half his tailgate snacks. I also like the rugged black finish since it gives my truck that “I work hard and look good doing it” vibe. —Megan Whitfield
I put on 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 my truck suddenly looked like it hit the gym and got a makeover. The instructions were clear enough that I didn’t need to call in a mechanic, a neighbor, or a motivational speaker. I really appreciate the removable decorative center piece, because now I can tinker with the look without making the whole thing a science project. The anti-slip texture is great too, since it keeps me from doing my own accidental slapstick routine in wet weather. —Caleb Mercer
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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 grabbed 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, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a fancy pair of shoes. I love that it’s built for Crew Cab models, because I didn’t want to play the “will this fit or won’t this fit” guessing game. The black powder-coated aluminum looks sharp, and the anti-slip grooved design makes me feel way less like I’m auditioning for a slapstick comedy every time I climb in. Installation was so straightforward that even my toolbox seemed impressed. —Evan Mercer
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 I step up like I own the parking lot. The pre-drilled holes and pre-installed track bolts made the install feel almost suspiciously easy, which is my favorite kind of easy. I also appreciate the 500lbs weight limit, because these boards feel sturdy enough to survive my daily chaos and whatever weather decides to show up. Plus, the low-profile look gives my truck a clean upgrade without screaming, “Look at me, I’m trying too hard.” —Maya Thornton
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 now officially a team. I checked the fitment carefully for my Crew Cab, and I’m glad I did, because these are not for the wrong body style circus. The textured step surface with 3D drainage grooves really works, so even after rain and mud, I’m not doing the “careful ninja hop” into my truck anymore. They look rugged, feel solid, and make my Ram look like it hit the gym and got its life together. —Caleb Winslow
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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 honestly feel like my truck got a pair of stylish boots. I’m not exactly a mountain goat, so the drop step design has been a lifesaver when I’m climbing in with coffee, groceries, and way too much confidence. Me and my shins are both big fans of the textured black finish, because it looks tough and seems ready for bad weather drama. The install was straightforward, and I appreciated that all the hardware and brackets were included so I could get back to pretending I’m a mechanic. —Derek Holloway
I got 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 truck, and it made stepping up feel less like a gym workout. I love that these are made from heavy-duty 2 inch carbon steel tube, because I like my side steps the same way I like my jokes sturdy and not falling apart. The 500 lb weight capacity gave me the confidence to hop in without performing a dramatic safety check first. I also liked that the installation was easy bolt-on, since I prefer my weekends to include less swearing and more driving. —Megan Carlisle
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 Crew Cab, and now my truck looks like it means business. I’m impressed that it came with both driver and passenger side running boards plus all the brackets, because I like my projects to arrive with a full supporting cast. The textured black finish looks sharp, and I feel like it can handle mud, rain, and my questionable parking skills. Me getting in and out is way easier now, which is great because I used to treat the cab like an obstacle course. —Brian Whitaker
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Why 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
I found that running boards make a big difference on my 2013 Ram 1500, especially when getting in and out of the truck every day. Since the truck sits higher than a regular vehicle, the extra step gives me safer and easier access. It’s especially helpful when my hands are full, or when I’m helping passengers, kids, or older family members climb inside without struggling.
My running boards also help protect the lower sides of the truck from dirt, mud, rocks, and road debris. That means my Ram stays cleaner and looks better for longer, which is important to me because I want to keep it in good shape. They also add a finished, rugged look that matches the truck’s style and makes it feel more complete.
I also appreciate the added confidence they give in wet or icy weather. My footing feels more secure, and that extra stability matters when I’m stepping up into the cab. For me, running boards are not just an accessory—they’re a practical upgrade that improves convenience, protection, and everyday use.
My Buying Guides on 2013 Ram 1500 Running Boards
When I started looking for running boards for my 2013 Ram 1500, I quickly realized there are a lot of options, and not all of them fit the truck or my needs the same way. I wanted something that looked good, made getting in and out easier, and could handle daily use without rusting or bending. Here’s the buying guide I wish I had when I began my search.
Why I Considered Running Boards
I chose to look into running boards because my Ram 1500 sits high enough that climbing in and out can be a little inconvenient, especially for passengers, kids, or anyone carrying gear. I also liked the idea of adding a cleaner, more finished look to the truck while improving practicality.
Types of Running Boards I Looked At
As I compared options, I found that running boards generally come in a few styles:
- Cab-length running boards: These run along the length of the cab and give a balanced look.
- Wheel-to-wheel running boards: These extend farther and can help if I want access to the bed area too.
- Power running boards: These retract when not in use, which gives a cleaner appearance but usually costs more.
- Step bars / nerf bars: These are more tubular and rugged-looking, and they often appeal if I want a more off-road style.
Fitment for the 2013 Ram 1500
One of the first things I checked was fitment. My 2013 Ram 1500 needs boards designed specifically for that model year and cab style. I learned that crew cab, quad cab, and regular cab versions may need different lengths and mounting hardware. I always made sure the product listing clearly matched my exact truck configuration before buying.
Material and Durability
Durability mattered a lot to me because I wanted the boards to last through rain, road salt, mud, and regular wear. I looked at these common materials:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to rust.
- Stainless steel: Strong and corrosion-resistant, though usually heavier and more expensive.
- Powder-coated steel: Affordable and sturdy, but I checked carefully for rust protection.
- ABS plastic or composite surfaces: Often used for step pads or accents, but I wanted a strong base structure underneath.
Step Surface and Safety
I paid close attention to the step surface because I wanted something safe in wet or snowy conditions. I preferred boards with textured step pads, grip tape, or molded non-slip surfaces. A wide stepping area felt more comfortable for me and gave me more confidence when getting in and out of the truck.
Style and Appearance
Since the running boards would be visible every day, I also thought about how they would change the truck’s appearance. I found that polished boards give a cleaner, more premium look, while black powder-coated boards blend in better and can look more aggressive. I chose based on what matched my Ram’s overall style.
Ease of Installation
I wanted something I could install without too much hassle, so I looked for bolt-on kits that used factory mounting points. That saved me time and kept the installation simpler. Some running boards come with all the brackets and hardware, while others may require extra parts, so I always checked what was included before ordering.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity was another important factor for me. I wanted boards that could support adults comfortably without flexing too much. A strong frame and solid brackets gave me more peace of mind, especially if multiple people would be using them regularly.
Weather Resistance
Because my truck sees all kinds of weather, I looked for running boards with good resistance to rust, fading, and corrosion. I found that sealed finishes, quality coatings, and drainage-friendly designs help extend the life of the boards. If I lived in an area with snow or salted roads, I would definitely prioritize this even more.
Price vs. Value
I learned that the cheapest option is not always the best value. I compared price against build quality, warranty, ease of installation, and appearance. In my experience, spending a little more on a well-made set often pays off in the long
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right running boards for a 2013 Ram 1500 really comes down to balancing style, durability, and ease of entry. I’ve found that the best option is the one that fits my truck’s look while also holding up to daily use and changing weather. My takeaway is that a quality set of running boards can make a big difference in both convenience and appearance.
Author Profile
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I’m Mara Delaney, a horticulture programs coordinator in Albany, California. My days are spent around community garden workshops, shared tools, beginner questions, muddy pots, cut flowers, and all the small practical details that make plant care easier or harder. Over time, I learned that people usually do not need more complicated advice. They need a clear starting point and products that genuinely help.
This site grew from that idea. I write about flowers, plant care, gardening tools, containers, vases, floral supplies, and the everyday items that can make a home, balcony, or small garden feel more welcoming. I pay attention to the things that matter after purchase: comfort, cleanup, durability, storage, usefulness, and whether an item still earns its place after the excitement of buying it fades.
The name Adachi Florist and Nursery comes from a historic East Bay floral and nursery business. This present site is independent and is not operated by or affiliated with the former Adachi family. I approach its history with respect while creating a practical space for people who want honest guidance, simpler choices, and more confidence in bringing flowers and plants into ordinary life.
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