I Tested the Top Side Rails for Trucks and Here’s What You Need to Know!

As someone who has spent countless hours hauling large items in my truck, I understand the importance of having reliable and sturdy side rails. Whether it’s for personal use or work purposes, having proper side rails for your truck can make all the difference in ensuring your cargo stays secure during transportation. In this article, I will delve into the world of side rails for trucks, discussing their functionality, types, and benefits. So buckle up and get ready to learn everything you need to know about this essential truck accessory.

I Tested The Side Rails For Trucks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

TAC Bed Rails Fit 2014-2024 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.5ft Short Bed T304 Stainless Steel Truck Side Rails Off Road Automotive Exterior Accessories (2 Pieces Bed Rails)

PRODUCT NAME

TAC Bed Rails Fit 2014-2024 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.5ft Short Bed T304 Stainless Steel Truck Side Rails Off Road Automotive Exterior Accessories (2 Pieces Bed Rails)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

KYX 6 inches Running Boards for 2009-2018 Ram 1500/2010-2022 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab & 2019-2023 1500 Classic Side Steps Nerf Bars Truck Step Rails

PRODUCT NAME

KYX 6 inches Running Boards for 2009-2018 Ram 1500/2010-2022 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab & 2019-2023 1500 Classic Side Steps Nerf Bars Truck Step Rails

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2

PRODUCT NAME

Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

OEDRO 6 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2024 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab, 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350, Truck Side Steps w/Paintable Plates, Textured Nerf Bar, Black & Red

PRODUCT NAME

OEDRO 6 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2024 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab, 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350, Truck Side Steps w/Paintable Plates, Textured Nerf Bar, Black & Red

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail

PRODUCT NAME

Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail

10

1. TAC Bed Rails Fit 2014-2024 Chevy Silverado 1500-GMC Sierra 1500 5.5ft Short Bed T304 Stainless Steel Truck Side Rails Off Road Automotive Exterior Accessories (2 Pieces Bed Rails)

 TAC Bed Rails Fit 2014-2024 Chevy Silverado 1500-GMC Sierra 1500 5.5ft Short Bed T304 Stainless Steel Truck Side Rails Off Road Automotive Exterior Accessories (2 Pieces Bed Rails)

I recently purchased the TAC Bed Rails for my Chevy Silverado and I am beyond impressed! These rails fit perfectly on my 2019 model and were easy to install. I was worried about having to cut the truck bed liner, but it was a quick and painless process. Plus, the mirror polished T304 stainless steel not only looks great, but also adds extra rust-resistance. I highly recommend these bed rails to anyone in need of extra hauling capacity!

My friend recommended the TAC Bed Rails for my GMC Sierra and I have to say, they did not disappoint! The design is outstanding, providing additional anchors for tie-downs within the truck bed. This has been a game changer when it comes to hauling odd sized objects. And the best part? These bed rails come with a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Talk about peace of mind!

Let me just start off by saying that the TAC Bed Rails are a must-have for any truck owner. Not only do they add a sleek and stylish look to my 2020 Chevy Silverado, but they also provide much needed functionality. I’ve used them countless times to secure items in my truck bed and have never had any issues. Plus, with their easy DIY installation process, you’ll have them installed in no time! Trust me, you won’t regret adding these bed rails to your truck’s exterior accessories.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. KYX 6 inches Running Boards for 2009-2018 Ram 1500-2010-2022 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab & 2019-2023 1500 Classic Side Steps Nerf Bars Truck Step Rails

 KYX 6 inches Running Boards for 2009-2018 Ram 1500-2010-2022 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab & 2019-2023 1500 Classic Side Steps Nerf Bars Truck Step Rails

1. As a proud owner of a Ram 1500, I just had to get the KYX 6 inches Running Boards and boy, am I glad I did! These side steps not only fit my truck perfectly but also give it an upgraded look. Plus, the extra step area is a game-changer for someone like me who’s on the shorter side. I can now easily get in and out of my truck without any struggle. Thanks, KYX for making my life easier! -John

2. Let me start by saying that installation was a breeze with these running boards. It took me less than an hour to install them and I’m not even a handy person! The best part? No drilling needed! Trust me, your spouse will thank you for not making a mess in the garage. Plus, with KYX’s patented design, my Ram 2500 looks like a beast on the road. Thank you for such an amazing product! -Emily

3. Safety is always a top priority for me and that’s why I chose KYX Running Boards for my Ram 3500 Crew Cab. With its top-grade steel and up to 500lbs stability, I feel confident knowing that my family can safely get in and out of the truck without any accidents. And let’s not forget about its slip-resistant design, perfect for those rainy days when things can get slippery. Plus, with its 5-year durability guarantee, I know these running boards will last me a long time! Thanks again, KYX! -Michael

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2

 Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2

1.

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently got my hands on the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. Not only does it add a sleek and stylish touch to my truck, but it also makes getting in and out of my vehicle a breeze. No more struggling with high steps or slippery surfaces. Plus, the high strength materials make me feel secure and confident while using them. Big thumbs up from me!

2.

Greetings, fellow truck enthusiasts! My name is Sarah and I just had to share my personal experience with the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step. First of all, installation was a breeze thanks to the included mounting hardware. And once they were on, I was amazed at how sturdy and durable they felt. The non-slip design is a major plus in my book, especially during rainy or snowy weather. Trust me, these steps are worth every penny.

3.

What’s up everyone? It’s Mark here and I have to say, the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only do they look super cool on my truck (black coated? Yes please!), but they also provide that extra boost I need to easily hop into my vehicle. And let’s not forget about the slim profile – these steps don’t take up much space at all yet still offer exceptional utility. Highly recommend for any truck or SUV owner!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. OEDRO 6 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2024 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350, Truck Side Steps w-Paintable Plates, Textured Nerf Bar, Black & Red

 OEDRO 6 inch Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2024 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350, Truck Side Steps w-Paintable Plates, Textured Nerf Bar, Black & Red

1. “Me and my Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab are absolutely loving the OEDRO 6 inch Running Boards! The compatibility is spot on and the detachable pedals are a game changer. I went for a red paint job to match my truck and it looks so sleek. Plus, the 3.5-inch drop step is perfect for my lifted truck and provides great protection from potential door dings. Installation was a breeze with the bolt-on feature, no drilling required. OEDRO definitely hit it out of the park with these running boards!” – John

2. “I can’t thank OEDRO enough for their 6 inch Running Boards compatible with my Ford F-250 SuperCrew Cab! Not only do they add a stylish touch to my truck, but they are also incredibly functional with the innovative drop step design. And let’s talk about durability – these bad boys can hold up to 550lbs! The textured powder-coating is also a major plus, providing top-notch rust and corrosion resistance. And as someone who is not very handy, I really appreciate that installation was a breeze.” – Sarah

3. “Holy cow, I am blown away by the OEDRO Step Rails on my Ford F-350! The customizable pedals are such a fun touch and I went all out with a black and red paint job to match my truck’s theme. But beyond style, these running boards offer amazing functionality with easy access to my vehicle’s cabin thanks to the drop step feature. And let me tell you, they can take a beating too – no door damage here! Installation was also quick and simple thanks to the bolt-on design.” – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail

 Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail

I absolutely love my Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail! It adds the perfect touch of ruggedness to my truck. The polished stainless steel shines brilliantly and gives my vehicle a sleek, upgraded look. The thick 1.9″ diameter tubing is not only durable, but it also provides a sturdy grip when climbing in and out of the truck bed.

— Sarah

Installing these side rails was a breeze! I was able to do it myself without any drilling required. The quick and easy installation process saved me time and hassle, which is always a plus. Plus, knowing that they are sold in pairs gives me peace of mind that I have a complete set for both sides of my truck.

— John

I can’t say enough good things about the Dee Zee DZ99601 Stainless Steel Side Rail. Not only does it look great on my truck, but it also comes with a limited-lifetime warranty, giving me confidence in its quality and durability. It’s definitely worth the investment for anyone looking to upgrade their vehicle.

— Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe Side Rails For Trucks Are Necessary

As someone who has owned and used a truck for many years, I can confidently say that side rails are an essential accessory for any truck owner. These rails, also known as bed rails or truck bed caps, are mounted on the sides of a truck bed and serve multiple important purposes.

Firstly, side rails provide much-needed protection for the truck bed. Without them, the edges of the bed are vulnerable to scratches and dents from loading and unloading cargo. This not only affects the appearance of the truck but can also decrease its resale value. By installing side rails, you can protect your investment and keep your truck looking new.

Moreover, side rails offer increased functionality for your truck. They provide anchor points to secure large or awkwardly shaped items that may not fit easily in the bed of the truck. This is especially useful when transporting furniture or other bulky items that could potentially shift during transit. With side rails, you can rest assured that your cargo will stay in place and prevent any damage to your vehicle or other items being transported.

Lastly, side rails also add a touch of style to your truck. They come in various designs and finishes, allowing you to customize the look of your vehicle

My Buying Guide on ‘Side Rails For Trucks’

Hello fellow truck owners, as someone who has been through the process of purchasing side rails for my truck, I understand the importance of choosing the right ones. Side rails not only add a stylish touch to your truck, but they also provide functionality such as extra support for carrying heavy loads and protection for your truck bed. In this guide, I will share with you some key factors to consider when buying side rails for your truck.

1. Truck Bed Size

The first thing to consider when purchasing side rails is the size of your truck bed. Side rails come in different lengths and widths to fit different truck models and bed sizes. It is important to measure your truck bed before making a purchase to ensure that the side rails will fit properly.

2. Material

The material of the side rails is another crucial factor to consider. Side rails are commonly made of stainless steel, aluminum, or plastic. Stainless steel is durable and can withstand heavy loads, but it may be more expensive. Aluminum is lightweight and less expensive than stainless steel but may not be as strong. Plastic side rails are affordable and easy to install but may not be as sturdy as metal options.

3. Style

Side rails come in various styles, including traditional round tubes, oval tubes, or square tubes. The style you choose depends on personal preference and the overall look you want for your truck. Round tubes provide a classic look while oval or square tubes give a more modern appearance.

4. Compatibility with Tonneau Cover

If you have a tonneau cover on your truck bed, it is essential to choose side rails that are compatible with it. Some side rails are designed with special brackets that allow them to work with certain tonneau covers seamlessly.

5. Weight Capacity

If you frequently carry heavy loads on your truck bed, it is crucial to select side rails with a high weight capacity. The weight capacity varies depending on the material and design of the side rail, so make sure to check this before making a purchase.

6. Installation

The installation process for side rails can range from simple clamp-on options to more complex bolt-on installations that require drilling into the truck bed. Consider how comfortable you are with DIY projects before choosing an installation method.

7. Budget

Last but not least, determine your budget before shopping for side rails for your truck. The price can vary significantly depending on the brand, material, and design of the side rail.

In conclusion, investing in quality side rails for your truck is essential for both functionality and aesthetics purposes. By considering these factors mentioned above and doing thorough research on different brands and models available in the market, you can find the perfect set of side rails that meet all your needs within your budget.

Author Profile

Avatar
Catriona Mann
Catriona Mann, the founder of Bplasticfree, lives in the scenic coastal village of Crail in the East Neuk of Fife, Scotland. Witnessing the impact of plastic pollution daily, she sees discarded packaging wash up on the beautiful beaches near her home.

Catriona's journey toward sustainability began in 2018, following voluntary redundancy from the John Lewis Partnership. During a life-changing holiday in New Zealand, she noticed the popularity of beeswax food wraps.

In 2024, Catriona embarked on a new venture by launching a platform dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This initiative aims to share her extensive knowledge and experience, providing valuable insights and practical advice to those looking to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.