Running boards solve a practical problem for truck and SUV owners. As vehicles have become taller, climbing into the cab has become more difficult for drivers, passengers, children, and anyone loading equipment throughout the day. Running boards provide a stable stepping surface that improves vehicle access while also protecting lower body panels from everyday wear. For people who rely on their vehicles for work, recreation, or daily transportation, choosing the right running boards means selecting a product that fits how the vehicle is actually used.
Owens Products manufactures American-made running boards designed for commercial fleets, work trucks, personal pickups, and SUVs, offering durable solutions built for long-term performance. We make running boards for people who actually use their trucks, whether that’s on a job site, in a fleet, hauling equipment, hunting on the weekend, or just getting in and out of a daily driver.
Some customers use their trucks for work, some for personal use, and many for both. Owens designs running boards that fit all of these situations. Instead of offering one generic style, we offer multiple running boards using different materials so customers can choose what works best for their vehicle and environment.
What Are Running Boards and Why Are They Important?
Running boards are full-length stepping surfaces mounted along the sides of a vehicle between the wheel wells. Their primary purpose is to make entering and exiting taller vehicles easier while providing secure footing in all weather conditions. Originally, running boards appeared on early automobiles when vehicle frames sat much higher above the ground.
Although automotive design has changed significantly, modern trucks and SUVs continue to benefit from running boards because today’s vehicles often have higher ride heights than passenger cars. Beyond improving accessibility, running boards contribute to the overall appearance of a vehicle by creating a finished, integrated look. Whether installed on a commercial fleet truck or a personal pickup, they combine functionality with style while helping protect lower door panels from road debris and everyday use.
Drivers who frequently enter and exit their vehicles, transport family members, operate work trucks, or use lifted or off-road vehicles often benefit the most from installing running boards.
Running Board Types: Traditional, Electric, Retractable, and Custom Designs
There are many different types of running boards available. Each is designed to meet different driving needs and vehicle applications.
Traditional Running Boards
Traditional running boards remain permanently mounted beneath the vehicle and provide a continuous stepping surface. They are known for their durability, simplicity, and low maintenance requirements. Since there are no moving parts, traditional running boards provide dependable performance in demanding environments.
These boards are an excellent choice for:
- Work trucks
- Fleet vehicles
- Daily drivers
- Commercial service vehicles
Electric Running Boards
Electric running boards automatically extend when a door opens and retract when the door closes. This design preserves ground clearance while maintaining a clean exterior appearance. Electric boards are popular among owners who prioritize convenience and premium styling. However, they require electrical components that may need additional maintenance over time.
Retractable Running Boards
Retractable running boards operate similarly to electric models but may use different deployment systems depending on the manufacturer. These systems appeal to drivers who want improved access without permanently visible running boards. They are commonly installed on luxury trucks and SUVs where appearance is a priority.
Custom Running Boards
Custom running boards are designed specifically for particular vehicle models or owner preferences. They may feature specialized materials, finishes, widths, or mounting systems to match the intended application. Owens Products offers multiple custom-fit running boards that allow customers to select the right combination of appearance, durability, and performance for their vehicle.
Material Options for Running Boards
Each material serves a purpose based on how and where the vehicle is used. Material selection directly affects durability, maintenance requirements, weight, and appearance.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a popular choice for running boards as it has excellent rust resistance, is lightweight, has high strength, and requires minimal maintenance.
Owens offers several aluminum running board options, including Diamond Tread, Grip Strut, and smooth aluminum designs that perform well in rain, snow, mud, and road salt.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel running boards provide exceptional corrosion resistance with a polished appearance. They are commonly selected for personal trucks and SUVs where both durability and aesthetics are important.
Plastic and ABS
ABS and TPO plastic running boards deliver a factory-style appearance while remaining durable enough for everyday driving. These materials are often preferred by owners seeking factory-inspired styling, smooth finishes, lower maintenance, and everyday functionality.
Owens offers several running boards using engineered plastics to provide dependable performance with a clean appearance.
Composite Materials
Composite running boards combine lightweight construction with excellent weather resistance. Depending on the application, composites can offer long service life while maintaining an attractive finish.
Selecting the right material depends on how the vehicle is used. Vehicles operating year-round often benefit from aluminum, while personal vehicles may prioritize appearance with ABS, TPO, fiberglass, or stainless-steel options.
Owens Products Running Boards
Owens offers several different running boards so customers can find the right balance between durability, appearance, and use.
Owens Commercial™ Boards
Built for heavy use, these include Grip Strut and .100 Diamond Tread Aluminum options. These boards are commonly used on work trucks, fleet vehicles, and commercial applications where traction and durability matter most.
ClassicPro™ and Classic Series™
Available in custom‑fit and universal aluminum designs, these provide a simple, reliable step for trucks that see a mix of work and everyday use.
GlaStep™
Made from custom fiberglass, these are often chosen for personal trucks where drivers want durability with a smoother, finished look.
Owens Factory Boards™
Built from custom TPO plastic, these are designed to provide a factory‑style appearance while still offering solid footing and access.
Fusion™ Oval Step
A rounded step design that blends appearance and function, offering a comfortable stepping surface with a cleaner profile.
TranSender™
Offers TPO plastic or extruded aluminum universal boards, paired with custom brackets to fit specific vehicles. This option works well for customers who want flexibility while still getting a proper installation.
Owens Premier™ and Premier Grip™
Constructed from custom ABS and TPO plastic, these boards are often chosen for personal trucks where appearance and everyday usability matter just as much as durability.
Benefits of Different Running Board Types: Functionality, Safety, and Value
Running boards are one of those things people don’t always think they need, until they have them. They make it easier to get in and out of a vehicle, especially on taller vehicles, and they help reduce strain when climbing in multiple times a day. The right running boards also improve more than vehicle access. A stable stepping surface makes entering and exiting safer, especially during rain, snow, or muddy conditions. Owens uses textured and grip‑focused surfaces, especially on boards designed for work or outdoor use.
For work trucks, durable running boards reduce fatigue by making repeated entry and exit easier throughout the workday. For families, they simplify access for children and older passengers. Running boards also contribute to the overall appearance of the vehicle while helping protect lower body panels from rocks, road debris, and everyday wear.
Since they improve both functionality and appearance, quality running boards may also enhance resale value by making the vehicle more attractive to future buyers. People often wonder if running boards will get in the way or reduce ground clearance. We design our boards to sit at a practical height, working with the vehicle rather than against it. Proper mounting keeps the boards secure and stable without interfering with how the vehicle is used.
Installation Considerations
Most running boards mount directly to factory attachment points using vehicle-specific brackets.
A typical installation includes:
- Identify the correct mounting locations.
- Install vehicle-specific brackets.
- Position the running board.
- Secure all mounting hardware.
- Verify alignment and tighten fasteners to specification.
Many vehicle owners can install traditional running boards using common hand tools and basic mechanical experience. Vehicle-specific mounting kits simplify the process while helping ensure proper fitment.
Do-it-yourself installation offers cost savings but requires careful attention to mounting hardware and alignment. Choosing professional installation helps ensure proper operation and long-term reliability.
Professional installation may be the better option for:
- Electric running boards
- Complex mounting systems
- Fleet installations
- Owners without appropriate tools or installation experience
Customization Options
Running boards can be customized to match both the vehicle and its intended use.
Available options include:
- Diamond tread finishes
- Smooth aluminum surfaces
- Oval step designs
- Factory-style plastic finishes
- Commercial traction surfaces
- Custom-fit mounting systems
Owens offers many different types of running boards that allow customers to prioritize appearance, durability, or commercial performance based on how they use their vehicle. Running boards can also complement other vehicle accessories, such as toolboxes, headache racks, grille guards, mud flaps, and cargo management systems to create a complete work-ready or recreation-ready vehicle. Current trends continue to favor factory-style integration combined with heavy-duty construction, allowing owners to improve accessibility without sacrificing appearance.
Comparing Costs and Value: Making an Informed Choice
Running board prices vary based on material, construction, mounting system, and features. Traditional aluminum running boards offer excellent long-term value, while plastic and composite boards provide an affordable solution for everyday driving. Stainless steel options balance durability with premium appearance.
Electric and retractable systems typically represent the highest investment due to their additional components. While lower-priced products may reduce upfront costs, long-term durability, corrosion resistance, and fitment should also be considered. For customers who depend on their vehicles every day, investing in American-made running boards built with quality materials from Owens Products provides better value through longer service life and dependable performance.
Choosing the Right Running Boards for Your Vehicle
The best types of running boards depend on how the vehicle is used. Commercial trucks, fleet vehicles, and heavy-duty applications typically benefit from durable aluminum running boards designed for constant use. Personal trucks and SUVs often prioritize factory-style appearance while maintaining dependable everyday functionality. Owners seeking premium convenience may choose electric or retractable systems, while those wanting maximum durability often prefer traditional fixed running boards.
Owens Products manufactures American-made running boards designed to perform in real-world conditions. With multiple materials, styles, and vehicle-specific options available, customers can choose a solution that matches their vehicle, work environment, and daily driving needs. Selecting the right running boards is about more than appearance. The right choice improves accessibility, enhances safety, protects the vehicle, and delivers reliable performance for years of everyday use.
Built the Owens Way
Owens Products doesn’t build running boards to follow trends. We build them to get stepped on, used daily, and trusted over time. With multiple materials and series available, customers can choose the running board that fits their vehicle, their environment, and how they actually use it — without overthinking it.