Should I Switch to Predator Steps?

For for those of you with the predator style running boards/steps: When I got my truck last year I had the 5" oval steps included in the deal. My wife is vertically challenged - she's 5'3" on a good day - and has a hard time getting into the truck, especially with her bad back. The oval steps don't really help her much because they are so close to the height of the door sill. I was wondering if the Predator steps might make a difference for her since they look like they extend lower? I don't use my current oval steps at all. I'm 5'10" and I step right over them to get in and out. I'm more concerned for her. I also don't do any heavy off-roading where the loss of ground clearance would be a concern. For those of you who have experience with the predators, what do you think? This is what I currently have:

 

No sir, I did not. I do now.

Edit: After searching that forum the topics including predator steps seem to revolve around switching them out for rock sliders, which makes sense for a forum called Armor.

 

Not sure i would classify the predator steps as armor.

If you're using the predator steps as armor, you're in for a world of hurt.

 

Depending on your height/wife’s height, you might find them to be a nuisance getting in and out of your truck because of the way the hang off truck.

I bought a set for mine because I like how they looked and to help prevent getting bashed by doors in parking lots. I told my wife it was to make it easier for her to get in the truck though. Does your wife actually need them, or are you telling her she does just so you can buy them?

Either way, they’re cheap enough, and install in like 20 minutes. If you don’t like them you can always sell them pretty fast.

 

Have you considered these options?





I have the 2nd gen running boards (1st pic) on my 2016.

They tuck right against the body. Nice clean look.

 

Actually that's a valid question lol. While I'll admit to using that approach a time or two, this isn't one of those times. I actually prefer what I have, so it really is to make things easier for her, assuming they actually do.
That said, there is a bit of selfish motivation here. I'm hoping that if they help she won't complain every time she has to get in the truck

 

Actually no, I hadn't seen these before. The only ones I had looked at other than the predators are the electric ones that fold up against the truck when the door is closed but deploy when you need them. They seem to go down low, but I had chest pain when I looked at the price lol.

Do you happen to have a link to these?

 

I have Predators on my Pro. My wife is 5'6" and she uses them all the time to get in and out.

 

My wife is 5’1” with a bad back (herniated disk) and yes the predator step is the best for her.
My previous Tacoma had the tubes like yours and it was just to hard for her to step up that high and then lean back down to get in. I took them off instead.
When I purchased my 2021 Tacoma it came with the predator steps and it actually made it easier for her to step in more naturally into the truck.

So go for it!!!

 

Yes. My wife is 5-3 and my daughter is 5-1. They need the steps. I’m 5-10. I use them getting in and out to save the seats. I had them on my 4Runner, also. Highly recommend the Predator steps if looking for a helpful step.

 

I have the factory Predator bars on both my Taco and my FJ Cruiser. My wife is a petite little hottie too and she likes them. And they hold up well too. The ones on my FJ are 15 years old now and still look great.

 

I had Predator steps for a couple years. My wife is 5'1" and they worked perfect for her. I, on the the other hand, hated them. I'm 5'10" and didn't need them. I would step over them to get in the Tacoma and on too many occasions hit my shin on the step. The Predator steps protrude quite a bit, right where shorter people need it. But right in the way for those who don't! It was truly a pain!

Finally got rid of them last year for a set of sliders with a step. The wife doesn't complain about the slightly higher step, but my other vehicle is a 2001 Wrangler with a 4.5" lift and 33" tires. The Tacoma is far easier to get into.

 

Something to consider. Thanks

 

My Tacoma came with the tube steps installed as well. I switched them out for the predator steps because I like the look of them better. But, my wife… only an inch taller than yours… appreciated the fact that the actual steps are lower than those of the tube steps. It’s good door ding protection in parking lots, but not much in terms of actual rock slider since they’re made of aluminum. If you don’t off road, I recommend them. They’re functional and look good.

 

Before buying mine, I tested them at my local dealer. Decent chance you may find a set installed that you can test out before buying. Though low dealer inventory currently might make that a bit more of a challenge.

 

We got a current thread going strong about obnoxious back seat drivers and you are complaining about clogging up the 3rd Gen forum with a discussion about Predator step bars? Give me a break dude!

 

I sold my OEM chrome tube steps and put on Steelcraft 4" oval. Very good as an aid to stepping up into the truck.

 

When you're here longer than last Tuesday and break 100 posts then maybe you can try schooling people on what they should post where.

 

Get a step stool and some chivalry, every time she needs in or out run around get the stool in place then offer your hand. Maybe toss your jacket down if there’s a puddle.
Be as ridiculous as possible for a few days then when you go back to normal she’ll be so thankful thats over maybe she’ll shut up.

That or offer to load her into and out of the bed every time you’re going somewhere.

You don’t need that negativity in your life bro.

 

Hmmm.....I actually have a step stool....