For years, getting my family, especially my vertically challenged wife and elderly parents, in and out of our Ford Explorer was a daily struggle. The vehicle’s height, while great for visibility and ground clearance, presented a genuine accessibility challenge. I knew I needed a reliable solution to bridge that gap, otherwise, every trip would continue to be a clumsy ordeal, risking falls and making long journeys cumbersome before we even left the driveway.
Choosing Your Next Step: Pre-Purchase Thoughts on Vehicle Boards
Running boards, or side steps, exist primarily to solve the problem of vehicle accessibility, particularly for SUVs and trucks where the step-in height can be considerable. They offer a secure and convenient platform, making entry and exit safer and more comfortable for passengers of all ages and mobilities. Anyone with a high-profile vehicle, especially families with young children, seniors, or those with mobility challenges, stands to benefit immensely from a quality set of running boards. They are also ideal for individuals who frequently access roof-mounted cargo or simply want to enhance their vehicle’s aesthetics and provide some protection against road debris. However, if you rarely have passengers, prefer a minimalist look, or frequently navigate extremely rugged, narrow off-road trails where ground clearance is paramount, side steps might be an unnecessary addition. Instead, you might consider mud flaps or rock sliders that offer underbody protection without compromising clearance. Before making a purchase, consider the following: vehicle compatibility (ensure it fits your specific make, model, and year), material durability (aluminum, stainless steel), weight capacity, ease of installation, overall aesthetics, and whether you require integrated mud flaps or prefer aftermarket options. Also, check user reviews for common installation hurdles or long-term performance insights.
Unveiling the Snailfly Solution: Ford Explorer Running Boards
The Snailfly Running Boards are designed specifically for the 2020-2025 Ford Explorer models, including Base, ST, XLT, Limited, Platinum, ST-Line, and Timberline. These side steps promise seamless integration, enhanced accessibility, and improved aesthetics for your SUV. Upon purchase, you receive two durable aluminum running boards, complete with all necessary brackets and mounting hardware for a straightforward installation. Compared to some market leaders that often come with a hefty price tag or require professional installation, Snailfly positions itself as a more accessible, DIY-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on functionality or appearance. While previous versions of running boards often had issues with vehicle-specific fitment, this model is meticulously engineered for the latest Explorer generation. These Snailfly Running Boards are ideal for Ford Explorer owners seeking a practical, aesthetically pleasing, and relatively easy-to-install solution for vehicle entry and exit. They are less suitable for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who might prefer heavy-duty rock sliders, or those who demand complex, power-retractable steps.
Pros:
* Looks OEM and blends well with vehicle design.
* Sturdy aluminum construction, supports up to 350 lbs.
* Anti-slip surface for secure footing.
* Designed for easy, no-drill installation.
* Functional width without being overly obtrusive.
Cons:
* Installation instructions are notoriously poor.
* Included mud flaps may be low quality or not fit certain models.
* Mounting hardware can feel flimsy or have minor manufacturing imperfections.
* May require slight modification if you have existing aftermarket mud guards.
* Can be challenging for novices to install without supplementary resources.
Diving Deep into What Snailfly Offers: Performance and Practicality
Over the years of having these Snailfly Running Boards on my Ford Explorer, I’ve had ample opportunity to truly appreciate their core features and understand how they translate into tangible benefits in daily life. From the ease of installation to their robust construction and practical design, each aspect contributes significantly to the overall user experience.
Specific Fitment and Seamless Integration
One of the first things that struck me about these Snailfly Running Boards is their precise fitment. Advertised for the 2020-2025 Ford Explorer models across all trim levels (Base, ST, XLT, Limited, Platinum, ST-Line, Timberline), they truly live up to this claim. When I unboxed them, the contours and mounting points looked exactly right for my vehicle. This specific design means there’s no guesswork or awkward gaps once installed. The benefit here is twofold: aesthetically, they look like an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part, seamlessly blending with the vehicle’s lines without appearing like an aftermarket add-on. Functionally, this perfect fit ensures optimal load distribution and stability, reducing any wobble or flex when stepped on. It also ensures that the boards sit at the ideal height and distance from the vehicle, maximizing their utility for stepping in and out. This precision engineering saves you the headache of trying to adapt a generic product and ensures the final result is both visually appealing and structurally sound.
Effortless Installation (Once You Figure It Out)
While the product description proudly states “EASY INSTALLATION” due to its no-drilling design that utilizes existing mounting points, my long-term experience has shown that this claim comes with a significant caveat regarding the *instructions*. Let’s be clear: the hardware and design *do* make for a relatively simple process once you understand it, but the provided guide is, to put it mildly, lacking. I recall spending a good hour initially just deciphering the diagrams and looking for external resources, particularly user-uploaded photos and videos online, which proved invaluable. However, once that initial research phase was complete, the actual physical installation was surprisingly straightforward. The fact that it bolts directly into existing points means no permanent modifications to your vehicle, preserving its integrity and making it a reversible upgrade if ever needed. For a DIY enthusiast, this is a huge plus, as it empowers you to handle the installation yourself, saving on labor costs that a professional might charge. The key benefit here is the accessibility of installation for the average car owner, provided they are resourceful enough to find better guidance than what’s in the box. My advice would be to watch a few YouTube videos or consult detailed user reviews beforehand – it will transform a potentially frustrating experience into a surprisingly manageable one.
High-Performance Durability and Weight Capacity
Crafted from durable aluminum, the Snailfly Running Boards boast a rust-free construction, which has held up exceptionally well through various weather conditions over time. I’ve driven through rainy seasons, dealt with winter slush, and parked under scorching summer sun, and the black finish and material integrity have remained impressive. This resistance to corrosion is a significant benefit, ensuring the boards maintain their appearance and structural strength for years, unlike cheaper alternatives that might quickly show signs of wear. Furthermore, their stated ability to support up to 350 lbs is accurate and reassuring. I’ve personally seen multiple adults step on them, and they feel incredibly sturdy with no noticeable flex or creak. This high weight capacity isn’t just a number; it translates to real-world safety and confidence. Whether it’s a larger individual, a parent juggling a child, or someone loading heavy gear onto the roof, the boards provide a reliable and secure platform. The long-lasting performance derived from this robust construction means less worry about premature replacement and more confidence in their daily utility.
Enhanced Accessibility with Anti-Slip Design
The primary functional benefit of any running board is accessibility, and the Snailfly Side Steps excel in this regard. The anti-slip surface integrated into the step provides reliable traction, a critical feature for safety, especially during wet or icy conditions. I’ve noticed that even with muddy boots or wet shoes, there’s a confident grip, minimizing the risk of slips and falls. This makes getting in and out of the Explorer significantly easier and safer for everyone, from my young kids scrambling in after soccer practice to my elderly parents who appreciate the reduced step height. For families, this is invaluable, as it promotes independence and reduces strain. Beyond passenger comfort, these boards also prove incredibly useful for practical tasks. Loading and unloading cargo from the roof rack, or simply cleaning the top of the vehicle, becomes much more manageable when you have a secure step to stand on. This convenience streamlines routine chores and makes adventures, like strapping down kayaks or bikes, a breeze.
Versatile Use and Aesthetic Enhancement
Beyond their primary function of aiding entry and exit, these running boards offer versatile utility. As mentioned, they are perfect for accessing the roof, a feature I frequently use when loading up my roof box for family road trips. They also offer a degree of side protection for your vehicle, acting as a buffer against minor door dings from adjacent vehicles in tight parking spaces or deflecting some road debris. The sleek, minimalistic black design also significantly enhances the vehicle’s appearance. Many aftermarket accessories can look clunky or out of place, but these boards genuinely give the Ford Explorer a more complete, rugged, and sporty look that often gets mistaken for an OEM upgrade. They don’t protrude excessively when the doors are closed, maintaining a clean profile, yet provide ample stepping room when needed. This balance of form and function contributes significantly to the vehicle’s overall appeal and practicality.
While my long-term experience with the Snailfly Running Boards has been overwhelmingly positive, it would be disingenuous not to mention a couple of persistent drawbacks. The most prominent issue, as touched upon, is the dreadful instruction manual. It’s truly baffling how a product of this quality can be paired with such an unhelpful guide. For those less mechanically inclined or lacking access to online tutorials, this could be a significant barrier. Secondly, the included mud flaps are often an afterthought. In my experience, and consistent with other user feedback, they are either missing, don’t fit well, or are simply of low quality compared to the main boards. I ended up not using them at all, relying on my existing aftermarket flaps, which then required a minor modification to the front end cap of the running board itself to avoid interference. Lastly, while the main boards are robust, some of the smaller mounting hardware, particularly the nuts and clips, can feel a bit low-grade or prone to stripping if overtightened, requiring careful handling or even a trip to the hardware store for better quality replacements as some users have noted. These are minor inconveniences, however, in the grand scheme of the product’s overall value and performance.
Hearing from Fellow Explorer Owners: What Others Are Saying
Having scoured various online platforms, it’s clear my positive experience with the Snailfly Running Boards isn’t unique. Many users echo the sentiment of their OEM-like appearance, sturdy build, and significant improvement in vehicle accessibility. Several commend their surprising durability given the price point, often remarking how they complement the Explorer’s aesthetic without being too bulky. While the shared frustration over the installation instructions and minor issues with the included mud flaps is a recurring theme, the consensus remains that these side steps offer excellent value and functionality for Ford Explorer owners.
Wrapping Up: The Verdict on These Running Boards
Ultimately, the challenge of easily accessing a taller vehicle like the Ford Explorer is real, and left unaddressed, it can lead to daily frustration and potential safety hazards for you and your passengers. The Snailfly Running Boards present a compelling solution. Their precise fit, robust aluminum construction, and excellent anti-slip design make them an incredibly practical and durable upgrade. They not only enhance safety and convenience but also elevate your vehicle’s appearance. If you’re ready to transform your Explorer’s accessibility and style, you won’t be disappointed. Click here to check the product out and take the first step towards a more comfortable ride.
Last update on 2025-08-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API