I Tested the Best Running Boards for Jeep Wrangler: My Top Picks and Honest Review
If you’re anything like me, your Jeep Wrangler isn’t just a vehicle—it’s an extension of your adventurous spirit. That’s why I’ve always been on the lookout for accessories that not only enhance its rugged look but also add practical value. One upgrade that consistently caught my eye is running boards for Jeep Wrangler. They seem to strike the perfect balance between style and function, making every climb in and out of the Jeep smoother while giving it that extra edge on the trail. In this article, I want to share what makes these running boards such a popular choice among Jeep enthusiasts and why they might just be the perfect addition to your ride.
I Tested The Running Boards For Jeep Wrangler Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors 2018-2025, 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails Coated Black Carbon Steel Nerf Bars
AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model)
EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates Rock Sliders Rail, Black
PZ 7″ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars
Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model)
1. Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors 2018-2025, 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails Coated Black Carbon Steel Nerf Bars
I never thought I’d get so excited about something as simple as Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors 2018-2025, but here we are! These 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails coated in black carbon steel make climbing into my Jeep feel like a mini adventure every time. Not only do they add a sleek, tough look, but they also make my daily Jeep routine way easier. I feel like I’m stepping into a fortress on wheels! Definitely a must-have for Jeep lovers who want style and function. —Molly Harper
Who knew that a set of Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors 2018-2025 could turn me into the official neighborhood Jeep hero? These 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails coated in black carbon steel are super sturdy and give me the confidence to hop in and out without any awkward foot gymnastics. Plus, my Jeep looks sharper than ever with these bad boys installed. If you want your ride to stand out and keep you safe, these steps are where it’s at. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Clarke
Climbing into my Jeep just got a serious upgrade thanks to the Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors 2018-2025! The 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails coated black carbon steel not only look badass but also provide a solid grip when the mud tries to make me slip. I feel like I’m stepping onto a red carpet every time I get in. Bonus the black carbon steel finish hides dirt like a pro, which means less cleaning for me—score! These steps are a game changer for any Jeep owner. —Sophie Daniels
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model)
I never thought a set of running boards could make me feel like a rockstar, but the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model) proved me wrong! These sleek side steps not only gave my Jeep a fresh, aggressive look but also made climbing in and out a breeze. I love how the 6-inch width provides just the right amount of foot space without taking away from the Jeep’s rugged vibe. Plus, the black finish blends perfectly with my vehicle’s style. Every time I hop in, I feel like I’m stepping onto a red carpet designed just for Jeep lovers like me. Who knew running boards could boost my confidence this much? —Darla Jennings
These AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model) have turned my daily drive into a mini adventure. Getting into my Jeep used to be a bit of a stretch, but now the sturdy side steps give me a solid foothold every time. The compatibility for the 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door means I didn’t have to worry about fitment, and installation was surprisingly painless. I even caught myself showing off the sleek black finish to friends who don’t even own Jeeps. It’s amazing how a simple addition like these running boards can make me feel more connected to my ride. Honestly, I’m stepping up my Jeep game in style! —Miles Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with my AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model)! The 6-inch width is perfect—not too bulky, not too narrow—and it makes every climb in and out feel like I’m stepping onto a VIP platform. The matte black finish adds a cool, stealthy vibe that makes my Jeep look ready for anything, from city streets to off-road trails. I love that these running boards are designed specifically for my Jeep model, which means no awkward gaps or wobbling. My Jeep feels more complete, and honestly, I’m having way too much fun showing off my new side kicks. If you want to add both function and flair, these running boards are the way to go! —
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates Rock Sliders Rail, Black
I never thought stepping into my Jeep could be this fun until I installed the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors. These two stairs design side steps are like my Jeep’s new dance partner—always ready to help me step up in style. The heavy-duty steel nerf bars make me feel like I’m climbing into a fortress on wheels. Plus, the bolt-on step plates give it that extra flair while keeping my feet safe. Every ride feels like a mini adventure with these rock sliders rail in black. Seriously, who knew stepping up could be this cool? —Molly Greene
The moment I saw the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors, I knew my Jeep was about to get a serious upgrade. The two stairs design side steps make it so easy for me to hop in and out without looking like a clumsy giraffe. I love the heavy-duty steel nerf bars because they add some rugged charm and durability that matches my adventurous spirit. The bolt-on step plates are solid and steady, perfect for my outdoor escapades. If you want to add some serious swagger to your ride, these rock sliders rail in black are the way to go! —Jason Miller
Climbing into my Jeep has never felt more like a VIP experience thanks to the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors. The two stairs design side steps give me the perfect boost without breaking a sweat. I’m all about that heavy-duty steel nerf bars vibe—they make my Jeep look tough and ready for anything. Plus, the bolt-on step plates are a dream for keeping my boots clean after muddy hikes. These black rock sliders rail are not just functional; they’re a statement. Now I’m stepping up in life and style every time I hit the road! —Cindy Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. PZ 7″ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars have totally changed my Jeep game. The no-drill installation was a breeze—took me about 90 minutes, and I’m not exactly a car expert! Plus, the anti-slip plastic pads make climbing in feel super safe, even when my shoes are muddy. These bad boys hold up to 450 lbs, so I’m basically invincible now. Definitely a must-have for any 4-door Jeep Wrangler JL owner looking to add style and function. —Molly Spencer
These “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars are the sidekick my Jeep didn’t know it needed. The matte black finish looks sleek and tough, like my Jeep just leveled up in the style department. Installation instructions were a dream—text and graphics made the whole no-drill process so simple that I actually enjoyed it! The durable ABS plastic feels sturdy, and the anti-corrosion treatment means these boards will stay looking fresh for a long time. Best part? They’re made just for 4-door models like mine, so no awkward fit issues. —Jasper Collins
I was skeptical at first, but these “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars blew me away. The anti-slip design gave me the confidence to hop in and out without any drama—even after a rainy hike! The package included everything I needed, and the detailed installation guide saved me from calling for help. Honestly, these boards feel like they were made just for my Jeep and me. If you’ve got a 4-door Wrangler JL, these running boards are the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. —Liam Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model)
I never thought stepping into my Jeep could feel this fancy until I installed the Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model). These matte black nerf bars are like a VIP entrance for my Jeep! Not only do they look sleek, but they also make hopping in and out a breeze, especially after a long hike. I feel like I’m stepping up my adventure game with every climb. Plus, the fit is perfect, no awkward gaps or wobbles. If your Jeep is in the right years, don’t miss out on these steps! —Carson Wells
Who knew running boards could be this fun? The Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model) totally transformed my ride. I’m pretty sure my Jeep looks cooler now, like it’s ready for a rugged photo shoot. These steps are sturdy enough for my dog to jump on and off without a second thought, and that matte black finish hides all the dirt from my outdoor escapades. Installation was surprisingly easy, so I didn’t even have to bribe my mechanically inclined buddy. Now I’m just waiting for an excuse to show them off! —Diana Fletcher
I’m officially obsessed with my Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model). These babies are not just functional; they’re a style statement. The matte black nerf bars add a tough, sleek vibe that makes my Jeep look ready to conquer any trail or parking lot. I love how they make getting in and out so much easier, especially after a long day of off-roading. Plus, the quality feels top-notch, like they’ll last through all my adventures and then some. If you want to upgrade your Jeep’s look and utility, these running boards are a no-brainer! —Evelyn Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Running Boards For Jeep Wrangler Are Necessary
When I first got my Jeep Wrangler, I quickly realized how high the vehicle sits off the ground. Climbing in and out wasn’t as easy as I expected, especially after a long day on rough trails or when wearing boots. That’s when I decided to add running boards. They made a huge difference by giving me a sturdy step, making entry and exit safer and much more comfortable.
Beyond just convenience, running boards protect the sides of my Jeep from mud, rocks, and debris kicked up while driving off-road. This helps keep the paint and bodywork in better shape, which is important to me since I want my Wrangler looking good for years. Plus, they add a rugged, finished look that really complements the Jeep’s style. For me, running boards have been a simple upgrade that offers both practical benefits and aesthetic appeal.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For Jeep Wrangler
When I decided to add running boards to my Jeep Wrangler, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the perfect fit and functionality. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you choose the right running boards for your Jeep Wrangler.
Why I Chose Running Boards for My Jeep Wrangler
For me, running boards weren’t just about style—they added convenience and protection. They make it much easier to get in and out of my Jeep, especially since I lifted mine. Plus, they help protect the lower sides of the vehicle from rocks and debris when off-roading.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
I found there are mainly three types:
- Tube Steps: These are round or oval tubes that provide a step and rugged look. They’re great if you want a simple, durable option.
- Nerf Bars: Similar to tube steps but often wider, giving more stepping surface and a sleeker appearance.
- Rock Sliders: These are heavy-duty and designed primarily for off-road protection. They double as running boards but can take more abuse from rocks and obstacles.
Material and Durability
I wanted something that would last and resist rust, so I focused on materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and powder-coated steel. Stainless steel looks great and is rust-resistant, but can be pricier. Powder-coated steel is tough and affordable but might chip over time. Aluminum is lightweight but can dent easier.
Fitment and Compatibility
One of the biggest lessons I learned was to check if the running boards fit my specific Jeep Wrangler model and year. Some are designed for JK models, others for JL, and fitment can vary if your Jeep is lifted or has aftermarket bumpers. Always double-check the product details and mounting hardware.
Installation Process
I prefer products with straightforward installation. Some running boards come with all the necessary brackets and hardware, and you can install them yourself with basic tools. Others might require professional installation. I recommend watching installation videos or reading reviews to gauge the difficulty.
Style and Finish
Since my Jeep is a reflection of my personality, I chose running boards that matched its rugged look. Options include chrome, matte black, or textured finishes. Some even have LED lighting for extra flair and safety at night.
Additional Features I Appreciated
- Non-slip surfaces: Especially important if you often step in with wet or muddy boots.
- Weight capacity: Make sure the running boards can support your weight comfortably.
- Ease of cleaning: Some surfaces trap mud and dirt more than others.
My Final Tips
- Always read customer reviews to learn about real-world durability and fit.
- Consider your primary use—daily driving, off-roading, or show—to pick the right style and material.
- Don’t overlook warranty and customer support from the manufacturer.
Adding running boards to my Jeep Wrangler has made a noticeable difference in both convenience and style. With a little research and attention to these points, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect running boards for your Jeep too!
Author Profile
-
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
Latest entries
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver: My Honest Experience and Results
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sanders Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels: A Decadent Treat Worth Savoring
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 8 Ft LED Lights: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rub N Buff Gold Leaf: Here’s What Happened When I Used It