Like many truck owners, I’ve often found myself grappling with the sheer height of modern pickups. Whether it was my aging parents struggling to hoist themselves into the cab or just my own weary legs after a long day, getting in and out of my Ram 1500 always felt like a minor ordeal. This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it posed a safety risk and could even limit who felt comfortable riding in my truck. Finding a reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and easy-to-install solution was paramount, and that’s precisely why I started looking into options like the APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards.
When considering an investment in a product category like truck steps, it’s crucial to first understand the core problems they solve. For many, it’s simply about easier and safer access to a tall vehicle, whether that’s for themselves, their family, or their passengers. These accessories can dramatically improve comfort, especially for children, the elderly, or those with mobility challenges. They also offer a convenient platform for reaching the roof, whether for cleaning or accessing cargo on a roof rack.
The ideal customer for `truck steps` is typically someone who owns a lifted or stock-height truck or SUV, frequently carries passengers, or simply values convenience and safety. If you’re someone who often hauls gear in the truck bed, having a step to climb up and secure things can be incredibly beneficial. However, if your primary use for your vehicle involves heavy off-roading where ground clearance is paramount, or if you prefer a minimalist look without external steps, then these might not be for you. Extreme off-roaders might look for rock sliders, which offer more robust underbody protection, rather than just a step. Before making a purchase, consider factors like the material’s durability and corrosion resistance, the ease of installation, the overall aesthetic appeal, the step width and anti-slip properties, and the weight capacity.
Unveiling the Solution: The APS 6-inch Black Flat Style Running Boards
The APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards are designed to provide a seamless blend of style, functionality, and durability for your Ram 1500 Crew Cab. These aren’t just an accessory; they’re a promise of enhanced accessibility and a cleaner, more integrated look for your truck. When you purchase this set, you receive two premium `running boards`, all necessary mounting brackets, complete hardware, and straightforward instructions, making it a complete DIY package. Unlike some bulkier, less refined options on the market, these `APS running boards` aim for a sleek, factory-fit appearance that complements the modern lines of the Ram 1500, rather than detracting from them. While electric running boards might offer a retractable feature, they often come with a significantly higher price tag and potential mechanical issues down the line. The APS boards provide a robust, fixed alternative that many find more reliable and cost-effective.
This particular product is perfectly suited for owners of a Ram 1500 2019-2025 Crew Cab who are looking for a practical, durable, and good-looking solution for easier entry and exit. It’s also an excellent choice for those who have added a leveling kit to their truck, increasing its height. It’s not designed for earlier Ram 1500 models (specifically pre-2019) or other truck makes and models, so compatibility is key.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons I’ve experienced:
Pros:
* Effortless DIY Installation: Designed for a straightforward bolt-on process, even for a single person.
* Sleek, Snug, Factory-Fit Design: Sits close to the vehicle’s body, offering a clean aesthetic.
* Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Offers excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity.
* Enhanced Grip with Anti-Slip Tread: Provides secure footing across the entire 6-inch width.
* Exceptional Sturdiness and Weight Capacity: Capable of supporting up to 500 pounds without flex.
* Triple-Layer Rust Protection: Ensures long-term durability against the elements.
Cons:
* Can Be Slippery When Wet: While generally good, the anti-slip tread can lose some effectiveness in very wet conditions.
* Step Protrusion: The actual usable step area (around 3 inches) might feel a bit narrow for those with larger feet, particularly when exiting.
* Minor Quality Control Issues: Some users have reported slight scratches or bent pieces upon arrival, though often minor and fixable.
Performance Unleashed: Diving Deep into Features and Benefits
Having used these APS 6-inch running boards for a considerable period, I can confidently share insights into their key features and how they translate into tangible benefits in daily use.
Durable Stainless Steel Construction and Finish
One of the standout features of the APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards is their construction from durable stainless steel. This isn’t just about strength; it’s about superior rust and corrosion protection, which is absolutely vital for any exterior automotive accessory. Living in an area with varying weather conditions, from salty roads in winter to humid summers, I’ve seen lesser materials succumb to the elements quickly. These `nerf bars`, with their robust stainless steel core, have held up remarkably well. The matte black powder-coated finish isn’t just for looks; it’s an integral part of their defense against the elements. APS specifies a “triple-layer rust protection” process involving pretreatment, anti-corrosion primer, and the final powder coat. This comprehensive approach means the finish has resisted chips, fading, and the dreaded orange spots that plague cheaper alternatives. This longevity is a huge benefit, as it means less maintenance and a consistently good look for years to come, truly making these a worthwhile investment for your `Ram 1500 accessories`.
Snug, Factory-Fit Design and Aesthetics
The design of these `side steps` is another aspect where they truly shine. Unlike some bulky, universal `truck steps` that can look like an afterthought, the APS 6-inch running boards boast a “snug, factory-fit design” with tapered ends that sit remarkably close to the vehicle’s body. This creates a sleek, classic, and integrated look that flows seamlessly with the Ram 1500’s lines. There’s minimal gap between the step and the pinch weld, which not only looks cleaner but also prevents debris from accumulating. I particularly appreciate the “integrated bar body” design, meaning there are no plastic end caps to crack or fade over time, which often cheapens the appearance of other `running boards`. This attention to detail contributes to a more polished, high-end appearance that really enhances the truck’s overall aesthetic, making it look like a genuine OEM addition.
Enhanced Grip and Step Comfort
Functionality is key for `side steps`, and the APS design prioritizes secure footing. The `6-inch wide steps` are “fully covered in anti-slip tread,” ensuring enhanced grip in most conditions. This full coverage step pad means you have a large, secure area to place your foot, which is crucial for safety, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. For everyday entry, particularly for shorter passengers or children, the `APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards` provide a stable and comfortable stepping platform. My wife, who is barely 5 feet tall, no longer has to “hop” into the truck, which she greatly appreciates.
However, it’s worth noting the feedback from some users (and my own experience) regarding the actual protrusion. While the step is 6 inches wide, it only extends about 3 inches from the vehicle’s side, which can feel a bit narrow when descending, requiring careful foot placement, often with just the heel. While it’s perfectly adequate for gaining entry, exiting requires a little more precision than some wider or more outwardly projecting steps might offer. That said, the anti-slip tread does its job well, providing traction even with this more modest extension, though a very wet surface can still pose a slight slip risk. For most users, the balance between a sleek, non-protruding design and sufficient step area is well-achieved.
Effortless DIY Installation
One of the most surprising and satisfying aspects of the APS 6-inch running boards is the ease of installation. APS bills it as a “complete DIY set,” and they deliver on that promise. The package includes the two `running boards`, all necessary mounting brackets, hardware, and clear instructions. For Ram 1500 models from 2019-2025 (Crew Cab), the vehicle’s frame already has the necessary studs for a “rocker panel mount,” making installation a true bolt-on affair. I’ve heard stories of installations taking mere minutes with an impact gun, and even doing it solo, I found it manageable within an hour. The process typically involves attaching three brackets to each side of the truck and then securing the `side steps` to those brackets. While some users mentioned minor quirks like specific lug bolt usage or a potentially stripped nut (easily fixable with a quick trip to the hardware store for a replacement), the overall consensus is that these are among the easiest `truck steps` to install on the market. This saves on costly professional installation fees, adding to the overall value.
Sturdiness and Weight Capacity
Despite their sleek profile and relatively lightweight nature (which is a plus for fuel economy), the APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards are incredibly sturdy. Rated for a `weight limit` of 500 pounds, they easily support heavy adults without any noticeable flex or creak. I weigh around 185 pounds, and they feel absolutely solid when I step on them. This rigidity is a testament to the quality of the stainless steel construction and the robust mounting system. It instills confidence, knowing that these `running boards` are not just an aesthetic upgrade but a reliable, functional component of your vehicle, designed to withstand daily use by multiple passengers.
Vehicle Protection
Beyond just providing a step, these `nerf bars` also offer a degree of protective function for your truck. By extending slightly from the vehicle’s side, they can act as a barrier against minor side obstacles, such as stray shopping carts, road debris, or even other car doors in tight parking spaces. While not designed as heavy-duty rock sliders, they can certainly help protect the lower side of your vehicle’s paint from being scratched or dinged, preserving its finish and value over time. It’s a subtle but appreciated benefit that adds to the overall utility of these `truck steps`.
Voices from the Road: Real-World Experiences
My positive experience with the APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards is echoed by many other users across the internet. I’ve scoured numerous reviews, and the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Owners consistently praise the straightforward installation, with many reporting completion times under an hour, thanks to the pre-existing studs on newer Ram models. Users frequently commend the steps for their impressive sturdiness, even under significant weight, and their ability to significantly improve ease of access for all passengers, particularly shorter individuals. The sleek, integrated appearance and the way these `side steps` hide the mounting brackets for a cleaner look are also recurring themes of appreciation. While a few noted the slightly narrower effective stepping area or minor shipping blemishes, these points are generally overshadowed by the overall satisfaction with the product’s quality, appearance, and value.
Final Thoughts: Your Path to Enhanced Access
In conclusion, the challenge of easily and safely entering and exiting a tall truck like the Ram 1500 is a common one, and failing to address it can lead to discomfort, safety concerns, and even limit your truck’s usability for certain passengers. The APS 6-inch (Black Flat Style) Running Boards present an outstanding solution that I wholeheartedly recommend.
These `running boards` are a great fit for solving this problem for several compelling reasons. Firstly, their durable stainless steel construction and advanced powder-coated finish ensure long-lasting performance and aesthetic appeal, standing up to the harshest conditions. Secondly, the smart, factory-fit design not only integrates beautifully with your Ram 1500 but also makes for an incredibly straightforward DIY installation. Lastly, despite their sleek profile, they offer robust sturdiness and reliable anti-slip footing, providing that crucial ease and safety for every occupant. For a practical, stylish, and durable upgrade to your Ram 1500 Crew Cab, these `APS running boards` are a superb choice. To check them out and make your truck more accessible, click here.