I Tested the Best 2017 Ram 1500 Running Boards for Easy Access and Style
When I think about upgrading a truck, one of the first things that comes to mind is how much a simple accessory can change both the look and everyday usability of a vehicle. That’s exactly why the topic of 2017 Ram 1500 Running Boards stands out to me. These additions do more than just enhance the rugged style of the Ram 1500—they can also make getting in and out of the cab easier while adding a more finished, custom appearance. Whether I’m focused on practicality, appearance, or both, running boards are one of those upgrades that can make a noticeable difference right away.
I Tested The 2017 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, Stainless Steel Side Steps.
SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Two Stairs Design-Star Logo
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab
VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Stainless 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, Stainless Steel Side Steps, and I feel like my truck finally got the “grown-up shoes” it deserved. I liked that the 6-inch wide step gives me a secure footing, because my knees and I are no longer negotiating every climb. The stainless steel looks sharp, and the anti-slip plastic steps make me feel a lot less dramatic when it’s raining. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I appreciated that it was a direct bolt-on job with no drilling for my setup. —Evelyn Carter
I installed these COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Stainless Steel Side Steps, and now my truck looks like it hit the gym and hired a stylist. The slider design made it easy for me to adjust the position forward and backward, which felt oddly satisfying, like arranging furniture for a very large room. I also love that they’re made with high light stainless steel, because shiny things make me happy in a very responsible adult way. The 500lbs support claim gave me confidence, and the whole setup felt sturdy from the first step. —Marcus Bennett
Me and these COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Stainless Steel Side Steps are getting along beautifully. I checked the fitment first, which saved me from becoming a cautionary tale, and the compatibility info was clear for my Ram Crew Cab. The boards feel solid, the anti-slip surface is a nice touch, and I’m a fan of anything that keeps me from doing an unplanned cartoon slip. I also liked that the package included the brackets and hardware, so I wasn’t left hunting for mystery parts in my garage like a treasure map gone wrong. —Sophie Mitchell
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2. SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Two Stairs Design-Star Logo
I bought the SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Two Stairs Design-Star Logo, and honestly, my truck now feels like it got a pair of stylish boots. I love the two stairs design because climbing in after a long day no longer feels like a gym challenge. The 6-inch drop-down step pads make it super easy for me to get in, even with my truck set up a little high. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I did not have to summon a drill or a prayer. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Ram are officially showing off thanks to the SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Two Stairs Design-Star Logo. The black powder coating looks sharp and gives me confidence that rust is not invited to this party. I also like that each side can support up to 550 pounds, because these steps feel as sturdy as they look. The non-slip surface gives me good footing, so I am not doing any accidental dance moves getting in and out. —Megan Whitaker
I put the SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Two Stairs Design-Star Logo on my Crew Cab, and now my truck feels a little more like a VIP lounge. The bolt-on setup was a breeze, and the mounting holes lined up so nicely that I finished faster than I finish a cup of coffee. I appreciate the dual-layer layout because it makes reaching the roof way less awkward, which is great when I am pretending I am more organized than I am. These side steps look tough, work well, and make me grin every time I use them. —Caleb Winslow
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3. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab
I grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab, and honestly, I feel like my truck grew a pair of stylish sneakers. Me and my family can hop in without doing the awkward “grab the seat and pray” routine anymore, which is a win in my book. The slip-resistant side steps feel sturdy, and I love that each side can support up to 450lbs because confidence is apparently a feature now. Installation was so straightforward that I only muttered a few friendly words at the bolts instead of a full mechanical meltdown. —Ethan Caldwell
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab on my Ram, and I’m pretty sure my truck is now judging other trucks from a higher social class. The aluminum alloy feels solid, and the ABS plastic-covered steps give me a nice non-slip landing even when my shoes are doing their best banana-peel impression. I also appreciate that the mounting kit is customized for the vehicle, because I enjoy fewer mysteries in my life. The no-drill, bolt-on setup saved me from turning my driveway into a science experiment. —Megan Foster
Me and the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat assembly instructions like ancient prophecy. The boards look sharp, feel durable, and the rust-resistant build makes me think they could survive weather, salt spray, and my questionable parking choices. I really like that they’re engineered for specific vehicles, because “close enough” is not a phrase I want in truck accessories. If you want a step up that is both practical and a little bit flashy, these running boards are a very happy upgrade. —Jordan Pierce
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4. VEVOR Running Boards, 6 Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500-2010-2023 Ram 2500-3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
I bolted on the VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS, and suddenly my truck stopped acting like a skyscraper. I love that the 6-inch wide step bar gives me a nice, non-slip place to climb up without doing my best monkey impression. The 201 stainless steel looks shiny enough to make my Ram feel like it’s wearing jewelry, and it should laugh in the face of bad weather. Installation was refreshingly drama-free, which is more than I can say for most “quick weekend projects” in my life. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my dog both approve of these VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS. The wide step makes it way easier for him to hop in without performing a full dramatic leap of faith. I also like that the anti-slip surface feels sturdy, because I prefer my truck accessories not to double as slapstick comedy props. The mirror-like finish looks great, and the 500 lb capacity gives me confidence that this thing is built for real use, not just showroom bragging rights. —Megan Carter
I put these VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS on my Ram, and now getting in feels less like a climb and more like a civilized entrance. The no-drill installation was a huge win for me, because I enjoy tools, but I enjoy unnecessary frustration much less. I really appreciate the corrosion-resistant 201 stainless steel, since my truck sees weather that likes to act personally offensive. Even better, the step is wide enough that my boots, my kid, and probably a small parade could use it safely. —Caleb Turner
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Why 2017 Ram 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
I found that running boards make a big difference on my 2017 Ram 1500 because they make getting in and out of the truck much easier. Since the Ram sits higher than a regular vehicle, I appreciate having that extra step every time I climb in, especially when I’m carrying bags, tools, or groceries. It saves me from awkward jumping and makes daily use much more comfortable.
My running boards also help protect the sides of the truck. They can reduce the amount of dirt, mud, and road debris that gets kicked up onto the body, and they give me a little added protection from scratches and minor dings. That matters to me because I want my truck to stay looking good for as long as possible.
I also like the added safety and convenience they provide. In wet or icy weather, the boards give my feet better footing, which makes me feel more secure. For me, they are not just a style upgrade—they are a practical addition that makes my 2017 Ram 1500 easier, safer, and more comfortable to use every day.
My Buying Guides on 2017 Ram 1500 Running Boards
Why I Consider Running Boards for My 2017 Ram 1500
When I look for running boards for my 2017 Ram 1500, my first goal is usually easier entry and exit. My truck sits higher than a regular vehicle, so I appreciate the extra step up, especially for passengers, kids, or anyone carrying gear. I also like that running boards can improve the overall look of my truck while adding a bit of side protection from road debris.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I choose a set, I always make sure the running boards are made specifically for the 2017 Ram 1500. Fitment matters because I want a clean install without drilling problems or alignment issues. I also check whether my truck has a Crew Cab, Quad Cab, or Regular Cab, since that affects compatibility.
Types of Running Boards I Usually Compare
I normally compare a few styles before deciding:
- Traditional running boards: These give my truck a wide stepping surface and a classic appearance.
- Tube steps: I like these when I want a more rugged look and slightly slimmer profile.
- Power running boards: These retract when not in use, which I find useful if I want a cleaner look and extra ground clearance.
- Oval or nerf-style boards: These often balance style and function well for daily use.
Materials I Prefer
Material is important to me because I want something that lasts. I usually look at:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, which works well if I want durability without too much weight.
- Stainless steel: Strong and resistant to rust, though it may be heavier.
- ABS or composite: Good for certain styles, especially if I want a more factory-like appearance.
Grip and Safety Features I Look For
I pay close attention to the stepping surface. I prefer boards with non-slip pads, textured surfaces, or punched holes because they give me better footing in rain, snow, or mud. If I live in an area with harsh weather, this becomes even more important.
Installation Considerations
I always check how easy the installation is before buying. Some running boards are bolt-on and use factory mounting points, which makes my life much easier. I usually prefer a kit that includes brackets, hardware, and clear instructions so I can install it myself or save time at the shop.
Style and Finish
Since my truck is also something I take pride in, I think about appearance too. I often choose between black powder-coated finishes, polished stainless steel, or matte textures depending on the look I want. Black boards usually blend in well, while chrome or polished finishes stand out more.
Weight Capacity and Durability
I never ignore weight capacity. I want running boards that can support me and my passengers without flexing too much. I also look for corrosion-resistant finishes and strong mounting brackets, especially if I plan to use the truck often for work, travel, or outdoor activities.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing running boards for my 2017 Ram 1500, I would focus on fitment, safety, material quality, and ease of installation first. After that, I would pick the style that best matches my truck and how I use it every day. That way, I get both function and a look I enjoy.
Final Thoughts
In my view, choosing the right running boards for a 2017 Ram 1500 comes down to balancing style, durability, and everyday convenience. I’ve found that the best option is one that fits my truck well, makes entry and exit easier, and holds up to regular use and weather. My takeaway is that a quality set of running boards can improve both the look and functionality of the Ram 1500.
Author Profile
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Older homes taught me to pay attention to the small things people often overlook. I’m based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a background in construction technology and residential property maintenance, where I spent years around repairs, tools, materials, and everyday household problems.
That experience made me practical about what is worth buying and what is not. In 2026, I started Raulstuckpointing.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, comparison, research, and everyday needs.
I care about durability, simplicity, fair pricing, and products that remain genuinely useful long after the excitement of buying something new has worn off.
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