Skid plates...yes or no? Factory or aftermarket?

ill be honest, most of my time driving my Tacoma is on the asphalt, but I also do a lot of hiking, camping, mountain biking, etc., taking me on a lot of dirt roads, fire roads, and the occasional light 4WD road.

My question his would it be wise to invest in some skid plates? I've had friends who have had rocks kick up and cause damage, go through an oil pan, etc., but for a guy who doesn't do any hardcore off roading what do you think?

Also would you go with the OEM aftermarket plate for the front or recommend anything aftermarket that's superior and cost the same or similar? Also, I figured if I was going to get the front skid plate I might as get one for the middle of the truck as well, but not sure if Toyota makes one for this as I've only seen aftermarket.

Thanks to all in advance for your replies and suggestions!

 

I'm not hardcore at all, I will be going with aluminum skids(weight savings). Better safe than sorry.

 

Who will you be getting them from?

 

not sure yet, Pelfreybilt/BAMF/All-Pro/RCI, there are alot of manufacturers. Check em out, and see what you like.

 

buy the best skidplate for the price you want to spend. You can also wait a bit to see what aftermarket parts are made or pick up stuff used once the hardcore guys swap their oem skids out.