Side step advice

I have ordered a 2021 TRD Sport 6MT Windchill Pearl and I am getting free side steps. I am looking for a bit of advice from anyone who has the Toyota side steps. I am thinking 5" side steps. I will need them for my wife to get in comfortably.

 

I have the low-profile ones on my truck and really like them. They’re functional but don’t hang-down like I think the Predator steps do. I’ve done some moderate 4wd trails in my truck and have yet to drag or damage them.

 

My wife is 5’1 and the oem predator step was best for her. The other steps were too high and would make it awkward for her to use to step inside.

 

Nfab has some decent ones but keep in mind if off roading they hang down and could get ripped off.

 

I’m 5’3” and put the 4” bar on last weekend. Nice quality, but really awkward to use- they’re too high and launch me up like I’m climbing on the roof... switching to predator steps if anyone has a recommendation on brand.

 

i was thinking of trying these, they are so cheap that i wouldnt be too sad if they were absolutely terrible. if i cant find any OEM steps on craigslist over the next few weeks i will probably go for it.

https://www.amazon.com/Running-Boar...dp/B08PYYKCWH/ref=psdc_15736621_t3_B08D69N8LP

 

Take my word for it... Predator steps are the only way to go.
I've had N-Fab hoop steps, oem running boards, and 5" ovals. My dad has the Predator steps on his 2020.
Running boards and oval steps are way too high and stick too far out. Not functional at all.
When you get out your leg will rub against the step most times.
The Predator tubes sit further inward and the step portion drops to a functional height. This allows you to get in/out without rubbing on the tube, but also allows the step to be functional for shorter folks.
My dad didn't like the look of the Predator tube steps and wanted to trade for my current 5" oem ovals. Once he got in and out of my truck he said NOPE, gotta stick with the predators.

 

Does anyone know if the predator steps fit a 2nd gen Tacoma? Thanks!

 

0 degree rock sliders

 

*In for the feedback!!

 

A friend of mine had N-Fab steps on his Colorado and they rusted out after 4 years. Is that average life on a set of steps?

Genuinely curious, I'm new to the truck game.

 

Maybe they would hold up well in the southern states, but up north the powder coated steel steps don't hold up to the road salt.
The N-fab hoop steps that I had were black powder coated stainless. They must have been a poor grade of stainless because they ended up with rust stains after a year. N-Fab warrantied them and sent me polished stainless (which I sold).
The OEM steps are coated aluminum, so they hold up better than most aftermarket brands.

 

I would definitely recommend rock sliders. They can be made 0 degree with top plates so it can function the same and it doubles as protection.

 

From Amazon ...AMP Research - Power Steps..electric running boards, $1,399.00..

These power steps ..ever see one in action? “So cool”. Open the door the side steps drop ..close the door the side step fits under the truck..

These power steps- Running boards..has being around for a long time...
Aloha,

 

The N-Fab Predator Pro Nerf Side Steps I have are powder coated Aluminum. Don’t think rust will be an issue. Fast to install too. My wife hated the running boards.

 

yes interchangeable

 

Thanks @duckytw I may get some this weekend. Just wanted to get a solid answer.

 

Any pics !

 

Gotta say I love my predator steps, but I do wish the steps themselves were either removable or designed with a spring loaded hinge. It would be nice if you could off-road with them and not worry about ripping off the rocker panels.

 

I don't seem to use my predator steps to get into my truck but I do use the grating on the steps to scrape muck off the bottom of my shoes before getting in. They have inflicted damage on other car doors by owners rudely opening their doors upon my truck only to be horrified they damaged their own car.