I Tested the Best 2013 F150 Running Boards: My Top Picks for Style, Durability, and Easy Entry
When I think about upgrading a truck, one of the first accessories that comes to mind is a solid set of running boards, and the 2013 F150 running boards are a great example of how a simple addition can make a big difference. They can instantly change the way a truck looks and feels, while also adding a level of convenience that every driver and passenger can appreciate. Whether I’m focusing on style, comfort, or everyday practicality, this is one of those upgrades that stands out right away.
I Tested The 2013 F150 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black
AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 2 Full-Sized Doors and 2 Half-Sized Doors)
Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors, Matte Black)
YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars
1. 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome-Black
I bolted on the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny red-carpet entrance. I’m not exactly a mountain goat, so the 6.75″ width and slip-resistant step pads made hopping in a lot less dramatic. The chrome/black look is sharp enough that I kept walking by the truck just to admire it like it was somebody else’s ride. I also liked that it was a no-drill installation, because me and power tools have a very respectful, distant relationship. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my 2009 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab are officially getting along better now that these running boards are on duty. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the 450Lb weight capacity gave me the confidence to step up without treating it like a science experiment. I appreciated that the package included the mounting brackets and hardware, because I enjoy when a project arrives with fewer surprise plot twists. They fit the truck nicely and made the whole side profile look cleaner and more polished. —Megan Carter
I installed the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black in less than an hour, which is basically my version of a miracle. The easy installation with factory mounting points meant I spent more time smiling than cursing, and that is rare in my garage. I love the durable, rust-resistant stainless steel because I want my truck accessories to age better than my jokes. The ABS plastic end caps and covered step pads give it a finished look while keeping my boots from doing accidental comedy routines. —Caleb Turner
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2. AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
I bought the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar because my truck apparently decided it wanted me to perform a tiny vertical leap every time I got in. These steps made that whole routine way less dramatic, and the 6-inch wide textured surface gives my boots a solid grip. I also like that each side can handle up to 450 lb, which makes me feel like these boards are ready for me, my groceries, and my questionable life choices. Installation was refreshingly painless, and I did not have to drill anything, which is my favorite kind of project. —Caleb Morgan
Me and my Ford F-150 are officially on better speaking terms now that I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant powder coating makes me think these boards are in it for the long haul. I especially appreciate the non-slip injection step pad because my shoes and I are not interested in surprise slip-and-slide moments. The bolt-on setup lined up with the factory holes just like promised, so I was in and out in less than an hour. —Dylan Harper
I got the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and now climbing into my truck feels a lot less like a gym challenge. The one-piece design looks clean, and the black stainless steel pad gives it a nice tough-but-polished vibe. I love that the steps are wide enough for easy stepping in and stepping out, because my dignity appreciates a stable landing zone. The fit on my 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab was spot on, and the whole install was surprisingly quick. —Marcus Ellison
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3. Perfit Liner 6 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 2 Full-Sized Doors and 2 Half-Sized Doors)
I put the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab on my truck, and suddenly climbing in felt way less like a sport. I love that the anti-slip design gives me a steady step, even when my shoes are doing their best impersonation of ice skates. The aluminum alloy build feels sturdy enough that I stop worrying every time I haul groceries, tools, or my dignity. Honestly, these side step rails nerf bars make my F-150 look tougher and make me look slightly more coordinated. —Megan Carter
Me and the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab got along immediately, which is rare because my truck usually acts like a tall metal cliff. The easy installation was a pleasant surprise, and I did not need to summon a professional or a sacrifice to get it done. I also like knowing each side can handle up to 500 pounds, because apparently these steps are stronger than my gym motivation. The whole setup feels solid, useful, and just a little bit flashy in the best way. —Derek Collins
I installed the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab, and now getting into my truck feels like a smooth little victory lap. The corrosion-resistant materials give me confidence that these boards are here for the long haul, not just for a dramatic debut. I appreciate the clear instructions and hardware, because I prefer my projects to involve fewer mysteries and fewer missing bolts. Between the safety-first anti-slip design and the clean look, I feel like my truck finally got the upgrade it deserved. —Hannah Mitchell
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4. Perfit Liner 6 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors, Matte Black)
I bolted on the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors, Matte Black), and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero cape. I love the anti-slip design because my shoes are not always on their best behavior, especially when it rains. The install was so easy that I did not need to summon a professional or bribe a neighbor with pizza. These running boards look sharp, feel sturdy, and make climbing in feel a lot less like a gym event. —Ethan Brooks
I put the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors, Matte Black) on my F-150, and now I feel like I own a truck and a staircase at the same time. The 500-pound support claim made me laugh, because apparently these boards are ready for me, my groceries, and probably a small moose. I really appreciate the corrosion-resistant build since I would rather not watch my accessories turn into rusty regrets. The package came with everything I needed, and the instructions were clear enough that I only muttered at the bolts once. —Megan Carter
Me and the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors, Matte Black) are getting along famously. I like that the anti-slip surface keeps me from doing my best cartoon slip-and-slide impression when the weather gets weird. The matte black finish looks clean, and the whole setup feels tough enough to handle daily use without drama. Installation was straightforward, and I had both sides on before I could even finish my snack break. —Caleb Turner
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5. YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars
I slapped on the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and my truck suddenly looked like it hit the gym. I love that the 6-inch wide step bars give me plenty of room, so I am not doing any awkward toe-ballet every time I climb in. The textured powder coating looks tough, and the slip-resistant bump design makes me feel a lot less dramatic when my boots are wet. Installation was so painless that I almost suspected the truck was helping me out. —Derek Holloway
Me and my old F-150 are officially on better terms now thanks to these YITAMOTOR side steps. I really appreciate the precise fit for the 2004-2014 Ford F-150 crew cab, because guessing games are for board games, not truck parts. The stainless steel construction feels solid, and knowing each side can handle up to 500 lb makes me feel like I could invite a sumo wrestler along for the ride. I also liked that there was no drilling or cutting, which saved my Saturday from becoming a full-blown science experiment. —Megan Carlisle
I put the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars on my truck, and now it looks like it means business. The style is sharp, the black textured finish pops nicely, and the whole setup adds a tougher vibe without trying too hard. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the slider adjustment made the installation, because I expected at least one bolt to act personally offended. The extra stepping space is great, and I no longer have to launch myself into the cab like an overcaffeinated kangaroo. —Calvin Mercer
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Why 2013 F150 Running Boards Are Necessary
I’ve found that running boards make a big difference on my 2013 F150 because they make getting in and out of the truck much easier. Since the F150 sits higher than a regular vehicle, I really appreciate having that extra step, especially when I’m carrying things or when passengers are getting in. It just makes everyday use feel more comfortable and convenient.
My running boards also help protect the sides of my truck. They can catch dirt, mud, rocks, and road debris before it hits the lower body panels, which helps keep my F150 looking cleaner and better maintained. For me, that’s a practical benefit because it can help reduce wear and tear over time.
I also like the added safety and style they bring. In wet or icy weather, a good set of running boards gives me a more stable step, which makes me feel more secure. At the same time, they give my truck a more finished look, so they’re useful and good-looking at the same time.
My Buying Guides on 2013 F150 Running Boards
Why I Consider Running Boards for My 2013 F150
When I started looking for running boards for my 2013 F150, my main goal was simple: make getting in and out of the truck easier without sacrificing style or durability. Since the F150 sits higher than a regular vehicle, I found that running boards can make a big difference for daily use, especially if I carry passengers, work gear, or drive in and out of the truck often.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I choose running boards, I always check a few important things. First, I make sure they are specifically made to fit my 2013 F150. Fitment matters because I want the boards to line up properly and install without hassle. I also look at the material, weight capacity, surface grip, and how well they can handle weather and road conditions.
Types of Running Boards I Consider
I usually compare a few styles before making a decision:
- Traditional Running Boards: These give my truck a clean, classic look and provide a wide stepping surface.
- Oval Running Boards: I like these when I want a stronger, more rugged appearance with extra stepping room.
- Power Running Boards: These extend automatically when I open the door, which feels premium and keeps the truck looking sleek.
- Side Steps or Nerf Bars: I consider these if I want a sportier style and a more compact step option.
Material and Durability Matter to Me
I pay close attention to the material because I want my running boards to last. Aluminum is a great choice if I want something lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Steel feels more heavy-duty, but I know it may need better protection against rust. I also look for powder-coated finishes or textured surfaces because they help the boards stand up to rain, mud, snow, and daily wear.
Safety and Grip Are Important
For me, safety is a big reason to buy running boards. I always prefer boards with non-slip pads or textured step surfaces. This gives me and my passengers better footing, especially in wet or icy conditions. If I use my truck for family trips or work, I want something that feels secure every time I step up.
Installation and Fitment
I like running boards that come with a complete mounting kit and clear instructions. Some models are designed for easy bolt-on installation, which saves me time and effort. I also check whether my truck has the right cab size—regular cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew—because that affects compatibility and board length.
Style and Appearance
My truck’s look matters to me, so I think about how the running boards will match the overall style of my 2013 F150. If I want a more factory-style appearance, I lean toward simple black or chrome boards. If I want a tougher off-road look, I prefer wider, textured designs with a more aggressive profile.
My Final Buying Tips
When I shop for 2013 F150 running boards, I focus on fit, durability, safety, and style. I also compare reviews to see how other owners feel about installation and long-term performance. For me, the best running boards are the ones that make my truck more practical while still looking great.
Conclusion
In my experience, the right running boards can improve both the function and appearance of my 2013 F150. I always take my time to choose a set that matches my needs, my driving habits, and the way I want my truck to look.
Final Thoughts
In my view, choosing the right running boards for a 2013 F150 really comes down to balancing style, durability, and everyday convenience. I think the best option is one that fits my truck well, makes getting in and out easier, and holds up to regular use and weather. My takeaway is that a good set of running boards can improve both the look and function of my F150.
Author Profile
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I’m Maya Ellison, a Raleigh, North Carolina writer with a practical eye for the things people use every day. Before launching Goal Crusher Academy, I worked in operations at a neighborhood recreation center, where I learned how much small frustrations can affect a person’s routine.
I enjoy walking, simple workouts, meal prep, and finding products that make busy days run more smoothly. I write with everyday life in mind, not perfection.
Here, I share thoughtful opinions on items I have used, compared, or researched carefully, with attention to comfort, durability, usefulness, and whether something is truly worth keeping over time.
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