Running boards vs tubes

Just wondering other than aesthetics, to pick the "board" type running board vs the tube type.

 

I got the tube type.. Helps prevent door dings

 

I have OEM tubes and really like the look of them, but will eventually go with sliders. I believe the OEM boards and tubes are about the same, looks and an extra step.

 

I bought my first ACOR PreRunner in '09 without anything. That lasted about a month and I bought the stock tube style. I like being able to put my foot all the way through without hitting a roadblock. It makes it easier (imo) to wash the roof and w/s and is a bit easier to get in/out. They were so nice (aluminum color) that I took them off when I bought my '14 4x4 ACOR and put them on it. I think if I really had to get new ones I'd get the black ones because I hate the chrome look. Not sure if you could still find the aluminum OEM ones like I have.

 

The factory boards are plastic? Do they hold up okay?

 

They hold up just fine. They're very sturdy and easier to step, walk on vs tube steps. I have the board type on my 4Runner. The tube steps just look "sportier."

 

What brand of running boards did you get that helped with the door dings? I am really liking the idea of dfab nurf bars but also like the price point of black 3in tube bars that prevent door dings. Most of the ones I am reading about seem to not help with the dings.

 

I really liked the oem running boards. I sold them way too early.

 

I went with the tubes.
The last truck I owned had the steps, didn't care for those.

 

My assumption is they should fit just fine. I took mine off my '09 and installed them on my '14 in 15mins. Six bolts and the pattern is the same. This was on a AC not AC to DC. I understand the DC may be different.