The best side step for a truck depends on whether you want a permanent cab step, a pair of individual steps, or a portable tire-mounted platform. The Auto Dynasty set is a straightforward choice for buyers seeking two aluminum steps, while the UTVJATV running boards are specifically designed for certain GMC Canyon crew cabs. Bully offers cast-aluminum individual steps, and Powerbuilt’s tire step suits occasional access to a truck bed, roof rack, or engine bay.
| Product | Best for | Key detail |
|---|---|---|
| Powerbuilt Tire Step | Portable access | Folds flat; 300-pound capacity |
| Auto Dynasty Side Steps | A pair of individual steps | Aluminum; 350-pound capacity |
| Bully BBS-1103 | Cast-aluminum cab steps | Pair with mounting brackets |
| UTVJATV Running Boards | 2016–2018 GMC Canyon crew cab | Two-level design |
| Bully BBS-5002 | Universal-style individual steps | Cast aluminum; 350-pound capacity |
Powerbuilt Tire Step
This is a portable step that rests over a tire rather than a permanently installed running board. It is best for truck owners who need occasional access to a roof rack, truck box, engine bay, or other elevated area.
The adjustable design is specified for tires up to 13 inches wide at the tread. Its steel “cheese grater” surface and anti-slip strips provide traction, while the open construction lets mud, slush, and debris pass through. The step folds flat for storage and has a listed 300-pound capacity.
Why it was selected: It offers a different kind of truck access from fixed side steps and can be stored when not in use. Limitation: It is not a permanent step at the cab door, and buyers should check their tire width before choosing it.
Auto Dynasty Universal Side Steps
This set of two aluminum steps is best for buyers who want a separate step on each side of a truck or SUV. The manufacturer describes the steps as a universal fit for most trucks and SUVs and advises checking its compatibility guide before ordering.
The steps have a black coating, a non-slip design, and a stated capacity of up to 350 pounds. The product listing says mounting hardware is included and describes the steps as easy to clean.
Why it was selected: The pair provides a clear option for buyers comparing individual side steps rather than full-length running boards. Limitation: “Universal” does not guarantee fit for every vehicle; confirm the vehicle against the compatibility information before purchase.
Bully BBS-1103 Side Step Set
The Bully BBS-1103 is best for truck owners who prefer individual cab steps and want a pair with mounting brackets. The listing describes a one-piece cast-aluminum construction with no welded seams and an extra-deep step surface.
Its stated weight limit is 350 pounds. The product is described as fitting most vehicles, including various trucks from Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, GMC, Dodge Ram, and Jeep. Check the listing’s fit details for the specific vehicle before ordering.
Why it was selected: Its cast construction, pair format, and included brackets make it a useful comparison with other individual-step sets. Limitation: The listing’s broad fit description is not a substitute for confirming fitment for a particular truck.
UTVJATV GMC Canyon Running Boards
These running boards are best for owners of a 2016, 2017, or 2018 GMC Canyon crew cab with four full-size doors who want a two-level step. The listing says the design can help with access on vehicles with lift kits and oversized tires.
The boards are made from 3-millimeter-thick carbon steel and have a hollow-out, anti-slip surface intended to help shed dirt and moisture. The stated capacity is up to 550 pounds per side. The product listing also describes a two-layer coating for rust and corrosion resistance.
Why it was selected: It offers a vehicle-specific running-board option with a two-level design. Limitation: Fitment is restricted: the listing excludes Chevrolet Colorado LT crew-cab pickup models. Check the cab and vehicle details carefully before buying.
Bully BBS-5002 Universal Side Steps
The BBS-5002 is best for buyers comparing a pair of individual steps for a truck or SUV. The product name specifies black powder-coated aluminum, while the feature description identifies cast-aluminum construction and a 350-pound weight limit.
The listing describes an extra-deep step and a universal fit for most vehicles, including trucks from Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, GMC, Dodge Ram, and Jeep. As with other universal-style products, verify that the steps suit the exact vehicle and installation location.
Why it was selected: It provides another two-piece cast-aluminum option with a stated capacity, making it easy to compare with the BBS-1103. Limitation: The fit description is broad, so confirm vehicle-specific fitment before purchase.
Buying Guide: How To Choose Truck Side Steps
Do you need a permanent step or a portable one?
Choose running boards or mounted side steps if you want access beside the cab whenever you enter or exit. A tire-mounted step is intended for temporary access to higher areas, such as a roof rack or truck bed, and can be removed and stored. It does not replace a fixed cab step.
Will the steps fit your truck?
Check the year, make, model, cab style, and any stated exclusions. Vehicle-specific running boards can offer a clearer fit range, but the GMC Canyon product here is limited to certain model years and crew-cab configurations. For universal-style steps, use the seller’s compatibility information rather than assuming every truck fits.
What capacity and surface details matter?
Compare the listed weight capacity for each product, noting whether it applies per step, per side, or to the product as a whole. Look for a non-slip surface and consider whether an open design that sheds dirt and moisture suits your driving conditions. Listed capacities and surface features are product specifications, not a substitute for safe installation and use.
Should you choose individual steps or running boards?
Individual steps create separate footholds near the doors; running boards provide a longer platform along the cab. Consider which style best suits your truck’s access needs, then confirm that the mounting hardware and installation approach work for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tire steps the same as truck side steps?
No. A tire step rests over a tire and is generally portable. A side step or running board is mounted to the vehicle for access near the cab.
Do universal truck steps fit every truck?
No. Universal fit descriptions generally refer to many vehicles, not all vehicles. Check the product’s compatibility details for your truck.
What is the difference between a side step and a running board?
A side step is typically an individual foothold, while a running board is a longer platform along the side of the cab. The products listed include both styles.
What should I check before ordering running boards?
Confirm the model year, make, model, cab configuration, and any listed exclusions. Also review the product’s mounting and fitment information before ordering.
Can a tire step stay mounted on the truck?
The Powerbuilt step is described as folding flat for storage and slipping over a tire for use. The supplied product information does not describe it as a permanently mounted step.