2nd Gen Running board or Tube Step

Hey Guys,
For those that have a 2nd Gen Taco DBL Cab, I was wondering what looks better as well as provides some protection against door dings, a Tacoma Running Board or the Tacoma Tube step? I have a 2010 Silver DBL Cab and it looks like it needs something under the doors? Appreciate your input. Thanks

 

i dont have a DC but I have a AC with westin running boards if this gives you any idea

 

I don't think either will protect from door dings, as they are not at the height of most point-of-contact. I have a DC with Long Bed and I got the Tacoma tube steps from the dealer. I thought the running board looked like crap and belongs on a '95 Suburban. I strongly believe the tube steps protect against much of the road tar and dirt that accumulate at the bottom part of your doors. Depending on the tube steps, many can help "somewhat" in protecting your door sills from off-road obstacles, but they would not take the place of adding armor underneath. Finally I think the biggest advantage is preventing a lot of wear/tear on the edges of the seats if you use the steps to get in and out of your vehicle.

 

I'm thinking about getting the nerf bars too. I'd like to see some more pics...

 

Hand built hybrid

 

Avid Offroad step bars:

 

The running boards and tube steps look great below the doors.

However, IMO...they get in the way of getting in the truck. You either have to step over them and step into the truck...or, step on them...than slouch down to enter the truck so your head doesn't hit the top of the door opening.

Also...if you are just opening the door to reach in and get or put something in the truck...they again are in the way, IMO. I had this problem with a Tahoe I used to own. Although the tube steps did help entry to the 'Hoe because the door opening is large.

The rock sliders are a whole different animal. And if you do a lot of off roading, they could prove to be a valuable asset.

Having said all of this...I'd love to have a set of tube steps on my DC...but I'm not sure I want to give up practical entry for looks. YMMV

 

can i take your truck please and thankyou

 

Great info! Thanks

 

I have the Toyota running boards (double cab boards on my access cab).

I hate tube steps and I think the running boards look better IMO. They will protect againest door dings because they stick out farther than the door. That's one of the main reasons I got them. I don't use them as a step to get in, but I do use them as a step to wash the truck roof/back windows (I'm short).

 

hey money talks lol

 

I'm looking for something for the wife, she thinks getting into the truck is difficult since it sits so high...any suggestions? running boards or tube steps or sliders? I have a 2011 DC tacoma sport MGM for the color and it is all stock right now.

 

I'm thinking about getting rid of mine. Don't really care for them and I never use them.

 

I love my running boards, they're just perfect.

 

I installed the smittybilt tube steps for my doublecab. As previously stated, they kinda get in the way a little for me but I got them for my daughter. Shes ecstatic about being able to get in and out of the truck by herself and I like the look. Plus it matches my bull bar. I got the black so that when they start rusting I can repaint them.

 

same here. not sure which way to go.

 

Tube steps for me right now, but they'll be replaced with sliders at some point.

 

Toyota OEM Tubestep Silver.
For Steppin', Not Protection.






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