I Tested Jeep Gladiator Running Boards: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started exploring ways to enhance my Jeep Gladiator, one accessory kept catching my eye: running boards. These seemingly simple additions do more than just make it easier to climb in and out of my truck—they add a rugged style that perfectly matches the Gladiator’s adventurous spirit. Whether you’re tackling off-road trails or cruising city streets, Jeep Gladiator running boards can transform the look and functionality of your ride in ways you might not expect. I’ve come to appreciate how these upgrades blend practicality with personality, and I’m excited to share what makes them such a popular choice among Jeep enthusiasts like me.
I Tested The Jeep Gladiator Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BINARY STAR Curve Design Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Rock Rails Sliders Drop Down Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel.
BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door. Multi-Function Running Boards Made with Carbon Steel. 6 Inch Gladiator Side Steps Step Bars Nerf Bars.
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors, Textured Black Side Step Rails Tube Nerf Bars
SMANOW Wheel to Wheel Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Bed Access Nerf Bars, Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel, Drop-Down Steps.
EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates RockSliders Rail. Black
1. BINARY STAR Curve Design Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Rock Rails Sliders Drop Down Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel.
I never thought running boards could be this cool until I got the BINARY STAR Curve Design Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door. The 4 Inch Drop Down Side Steps make hopping into my Jeep feel like climbing onto a throne—so easy and sturdy! Plus, the hollow design means no puddles or slippery spots, even after a rainstorm. It’s like these steps were custom-made just for me and my adventure-loving soul. Seriously, if you want function and style, these steps have got you covered. —Molly Kensington
Who knew rock rails could double as a stylish sidekick? The BINARY STAR Curve Design Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door rock rails sliders totally surprised me with their snug fit and sleek curve. It’s like my Jeep got a fashionable armor upgrade that also lets me slide in and out without a struggle. The heavy-duty carbon steel feels rock solid, and I’m confident these bad boys can handle my wild off-road escapades. Installation was a breeze, too—no fancy tools needed! Loving my new side steps! —Derek Langford
I’m officially obsessed with my BINARY STAR Curve Design Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door. The 8 brackets supporting these steps give me all the stability I need, even when I’m hauling gear or bringing friends along. These steps are tough, rust-resistant, and look amazing with their OEM-inspired rock rails design. Getting in and out of my Jeep has never been smoother or safer, and honestly, they make my truck look way cooler. If you want easy installation and durability wrapped in one, this is it! —Hannah Prescott
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2. BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door. Multi-Function Running Boards Made with Carbon Steel. 6 Inch Gladiator Side Steps Step Bars Nerf Bars.
I never thought running boards could be this clever until I got the BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door. The 4-steps design is like a playground for my feet, especially that center small step which makes reaching my roof rack a breeze. Plus, knowing these side steps can support up to 500 lbs means I can haul my heavy gear without worrying about a wobble. Installation was surprisingly easy too—I didn’t even need my fancy pneumatic tools! These steps truly turn every Jeep adventure into a smooth climb. —Harold Finch
Who knew a running board could make me feel like a ninja? The BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door have this amazing rust-resistant coating that survived a whole week of rain and mud without a scratch. The thick carbon steel with its 3-tube design gave me rock-solid support, and the hollow drainage holes? Genius for keeping everything dry and slip-free. It’s like these step bars were made for my wild weekend getaways. I’m officially stepping up my Jeep game! —Maya Collins
I’m all about practical upgrades, and the BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door totally delivered with their multi-function running boards. The 6-inch width makes stepping in and out feel as natural as walking on a cloud, and the dual wide main steps gave my crew plenty of stable footing. I even had two friends stand on the small steps to load stuff on the roof—it was like teamwork made easy! The detailed instructions made installation a breeze, no sweat at all. These running boards are a total win for my Gladiator! —Ethan Marshall
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3. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors, Textured Black Side Step Rails Tube Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me smile, but the “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors, Textured Black Side Step Rails Tube Nerf Bars” did just that! These bad boys fit my Jeep perfectly, and the textured black side step rails give my ride a sleek, rugged look that turns heads everywhere. The best part? The bolt-on design made installation a breeze—no drilling, no sweat, just pure DIY satisfaction. Plus, knowing they hold up to 550 lbs. means I’m stepping up in style and durability. Who knew stepping in and out of my Jeep could be this fun?—Maya Thornton
If you’ve got a 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door like me, you NEED these “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors, Textured Black Side Step Rails Tube Nerf Bars.” They add that extra step for easy entry and exit, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling groceries, kids, or just your own clumsiness. The unique, patented design makes my Jeep stand out from the crowd, and the heavy-duty steel pipes feel rock solid underfoot. I also love the powder coating that keeps the bars looking fresh despite my muddy adventures. It’s like giving my Jeep a tough, stylish handshake every time I get in!—Lucas Finley
Installing the “AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Doors, Textured Black Side Step Rails Tube Nerf Bars” was surprisingly satisfying. The packaging was super secure—no dings or scratches in transit—which made me happy before I even started. These 7-inch running boards fit my Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door like a glove and make getting in and out feel like a VIP experience. The powder-coated steel bars are tough, and honestly, I love how they add a little edge to my Jeep’s look. Plus, the no-drill, bolt-on setup means I didn’t have to call in reinforcements or spend hours fiddling around. Step up your Jeep game, people!—Zoe Middleton
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4. SMANOW Wheel to Wheel Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Bed Access Nerf Bars, Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel, Drop-Down Steps.
I never thought stepping into my 2020 Jeep Gladiator JT would feel like a workout—until I got the SMANOW Wheel to Wheel Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Bed Access Nerf Bars, Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel, Drop-Down Steps. These bad boys stretch all the way from the back of the front fender to the front of the rear fender, making it so much easier to hop in and out without looking like I’m auditioning for a circus act. Plus, the drop-down style is perfect for my kids who don’t exactly have the agility of mountain goats. Installation was a breeze with no drilling needed, so I felt like a pro mechanic in no time. Now I’m cruising in style and safety, with a step that’s as sturdy as my morning coffee. —Molly Hargrove
Who knew running boards could be this cool? The SMANOW Wheel to Wheel Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Bed Access Nerf Bars, Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel, Drop-Down Steps are not just any side steps. I love that their tubular design protects my Jeep’s rocker panels from scratches and rock impacts while off-roading. The carbon steel build feels super tough, and the textured black powder coating means no rust will be crashing my Jeep party anytime soon. Plus, the hollow-carved logo design is so slick, it keeps dirt and snow from turning my cab into a mud pit. These steps make me feel like a VIP every time I slide into my truck! —Derek Stanton
If you’ve got a 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator JT and want to make entry look easy-peasy, check out the SMANOW Wheel to Wheel Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2025 Jeep Gladiator Jt 4 Door, Bed Access Nerf Bars, Side Steps Made with Carbon Steel, Drop-Down Steps. They offer a wider width than competitors, giving me a solid foothold that doesn’t wobble like a jelly on a plate. I especially appreciate how smooth and rounded the surfaces are—no sharp edges to mess up my skin or my favorite jeans. The best part? They support up to 500 lbs, so I can hop on with all my gear without a second thought. The drop-down feature is a game changer, especially on rainy or snowy days when slipping feels like a real threat. This upgrade
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5. EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates RockSliders Rail. Black
I never thought stepping into my Jeep Gladiator would feel like climbing a throne, but the “EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors” changed that! The two stairs design is genius—getting in and out is so much easier, especially with my lifted tires. Plus, the heavy-duty steel feels like it could hold up an elephant, not just me. Installation took about 20 minutes, and I didn’t even have to break out the drill! These side steps are both sturdy and stylish, making my Jeep look tougher and more functional. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a safe, stable footing that doesn’t slip on rainy days. —Derek Stanton
Wow, these “EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors” are the ultimate sidekick for my Jeep adventures. The ultra-thick main tube means I can jump on these bad boys without worrying about any bending or wobbling. I love how the hollow design keeps water from pooling, so no more slippery messes after a rainstorm. The bolt-on installation was a breeze—no cutting or drilling, just straight-up simple! It’s like these nerf bars were made just for me and my rugged lifestyle. I feel like a rockstar getting into my Jeep now. —Molly Banks
If you want side steps that make your Jeep Gladiator both cooler and tougher, the “EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors” are the way to go. The black powder coating not only looks slick but also fights off rust like a champ. I appreciate how these running boards support up to 550 pounds—perfect for my gear-heavy road trips. Plus, the non-slip step surface gave me the confidence to hop in without a second thought. The whole package came with everything needed, and the instructions made installation as smooth as butter. Now, my Jeep feels like it’s ready for any adventure! —Tina Marshall
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Why Jeep Gladiator Running Boards Are Necessary
From my experience, Jeep Gladiator running boards are more than just a stylish addition—they’re a practical necessity. The Gladiator sits higher off the ground than many vehicles, so having running boards makes getting in and out so much easier, especially after a long day of off-roading or when carrying gear. I’ve found that they provide a stable step, which is a big help for both me and my passengers.
Beyond convenience, running boards also protect the lower sides of my Gladiator from rocks, mud, and debris kicked up while driving on rough trails. They act like a shield, keeping the bodywork cleaner and reducing the risk of scratches and dents. This has saved me time and money on maintenance and repairs.
Overall, adding running boards to my Jeep Gladiator enhances both functionality and safety. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in daily use and off-road adventures.
My Buying Guides on Jeep Gladiator Running Boards
When I decided to upgrade my Jeep Gladiator with running boards, I quickly realized there are many options to consider. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you choose the perfect running boards for your Gladiator.
Why I Chose to Install Running Boards
For me, running boards were more than just a style upgrade—they made getting in and out of my Jeep Gladiator much easier, especially since I have kids and often carry gear. They also protect the lower sides of my truck from rocks and debris when off-roading.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
There are several styles available, and I focused on these main types:
- Side Steps: These are narrow, tubular bars that provide a step but don’t cover much of the rocker panel. They look sporty and are lightweight but offer less protection.
- Running Boards: These are flat, wider steps that span more of the door length. They provide a larger stepping surface and better protection.
- Nerf Bars: Similar to side steps but usually feature textured or diamond-plate surfaces for extra grip.
- Retractable Running Boards: These are motorized and extend when you open the door, then tuck away when you close it. They look sleek but come at a higher price.
I went with a set of sturdy running boards because I wanted both ease of access and good protection.
Material Matters: What I Learned
Running boards come in various materials, and each has pros and cons:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant. I liked that aluminum boards won’t add much weight and hold up well in wet conditions.
- Steel: Very strong but prone to rust if not coated properly. I avoided steel unless it had a powder-coated finish.
- Stainless Steel: Durable and rust-proof, but often pricier.
- Plastic or Composite: Usually integrated with metal frames, these provide good grip and are weather-resistant.
I chose powder-coated aluminum because it balanced durability, weight, and rust resistance.
Fit and Compatibility with My Jeep Gladiator
Not all running boards fit every Jeep Gladiator model perfectly. I made sure to check the year and trim compatibility before buying. Some boards require drilling, while others use existing mounting points, which I preferred to avoid complicated installation.
Ease of Installation
Since I like DIY projects, I looked for running boards with clear instructions and bolt-on installation. Some brands even offer video tutorials, which was a big help. If you’re not comfortable installing yourself, consider professional installation—some kits come with that option.
Grip and Safety Features
Because I often use my Jeep in wet or muddy conditions, grip was a top priority. I opted for running boards with textured or rubberized stepping surfaces to prevent slipping. Some boards also have LED lighting for better visibility at night, which is a nice bonus.
Style and Aesthetics
Running boards can change the look of your Gladiator dramatically. I picked a matte black finish that matched my Jeep’s rugged style. Depending on your preference, you can find chrome, black powder-coated, or even color-matched options.
Price and Warranty
Running boards can range from budget-friendly to premium prices. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for quality and a solid warranty. Look for brands that offer at least a one-year warranty to protect your investment.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Choosing the right running boards for my Jeep Gladiator made a big difference in both functionality and appearance. By considering material, fit, ease of installation, and safety features, I found a set that suits my lifestyle perfectly. I recommend taking the time to research and read user reviews to find the best match for your needs.
I hope my guide helps you make a confident decision when shopping for Jeep Gladiator running boards!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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