Side Step / Runner Bar Advice

Hello! I just got my 2023 Trail Edition Tacoma this week - it’s been too long since I’ve last owned a truck. I’m excited and ready to get some upgrades added. Looking to get a bar/runner to be used more as a side step for my fiancé. I would love any advice or recommendations! Not looking for actual steps prefer the bar look. And definitely going with black over chrome. Would love to see pics if you’ve got them!

Also thrilled to join the community. You all have been amazing so far!

 

Welcome.

First, side steps are not sliders (more often called "rock sliders" or "sliders" instead of "runners"). Sliders are heavy and are bolted or welded to the frame. Steps are lightweight and not as secured. Steps crush, sliders do not.

Weight matters, as bed racks to support RTT (rooftop tents) or front/read bumpers that support recovery or winches, or belly armor (engine skids, transmission skids, catalytic converter covers, transfer case covers) ... these are steel and add hundreds of pounds.

Sliders often do not push out far enough to make good steps.

Toyota makes Predator steps that are not popular for off-roading (thin-walled aluminum pipe) but are lightweight and make decent steps.

Others will chime in with a long list of expensive options that make a difference, beyond the short list I already provided that "add weight".

For reference ... these are "sliders" which are not good steps (I lifted this picture from another TW member for your benefit ... so sue me) ...

 

I'm very happy with my Steelcraft 4" ovals. Just the right distance from the truck body and low enough to be very useful as a step. Welded ends instead of plastic caps. Far better than the round OEM steps that were too high and too close to the truck body to be useful.

 

This is a great option, thank you!

 

Buy a folding foot stool...

 

Welcome!
Definitely list use; is this fit looks or for actual off reading? That’ll help folks recommend.
I have RCI’s, they’re nice, but cost a decent amount and heavy.

 

Don’t know where you live, but if you are in a rust prone area I recommend aluminum for whatever step you choose.

I have the OEM aluminum tube style, but they are not the most functional as steps to get into the truck. They are great to stand on to wash the roof of the cab, but that is about it. They are too high and too close to the body to be really functional as steps. I just like the way they look.

The “Predator” OEM steps might be a better choice as steps, but the “step” portion hangs low, so it could get hung up if you go off-road.

I’ve seen some aftermarket steps that seem like a hybrid of the two OEM designs which look interesting, but again, I would only want aluminum construction in my area.

 

You know your reason for looking... sliders are overkill for application (unless you plan to off road). Otherwise, if you truly care about girlfriend's needs get something that is designed as a step. "Safety over appearance".

 

Actually, I kind of like this train of thought….current girlfriend is short, so need side steps. Next girlfriend is tall, so need a lift and seat jackers. Future girlfriend has poor night vision, so need LED headlights. Just being a “giver” and thoughtful boyfriend.

Unfortunately, I got married before buying my Tacoma’s, but hindsight is definitely 20-20.

 

I have a petite smoking hot trophy wife that needs help getting in and out of truck. Because we don't do much off roading stuff, the OEM Predator step bars work great for her and look good on the vehicle too.

But whatever choice you make, consider buying used! These things will get beat up given where they sit, so why waste good money buying new? Someone is always unloading a set of OEM step bars on Marketplace or Craigslist.

 

Awesome thank you all!

 

I like the round ovals. Mine are OEM.

 

I went with the ovals! Thanks everyone!

 

I had a set of go rhino dominator d6 that i took off my previous truck and installed on my 22 taco. Look good, slider look,very sturdy. My wife is short so it works good as a step for her and does a good job of protecting the sides of the truck. Going to eventually put a roof rack on for hauling long stuff, so they will also work great for reaching across roof to tie down. Oops, just saw O.P's new reply that he decided and got the steps!