April 19, 2024
Rhonium – Car & Truck Style + Performance

Westin Running Boards and Side Steps: Product Reviews

15 min read June 13, 2022 Roger Craig
westin running boards

Stepping assistance products are a necessary addition to any truck. This is exactly what running boards and nerf step bars are produced to do. Not only do they improve a truck’s design, but also provide assistance when entering the vehicle. These simple exterior truck parts make it easier to get into the truck but also catch some of the dirt from the boots. Stepping assistance products are a must-have for vehicles that get children and elderly people as passengers because it helps get in more easily.

While driving, running boards or nerf step bars that stick to the rocker panels can protect the sides of the vehicle from rocks and smaller particles. Dirt and chips fly up from below tires and tend to scratch the vehicle’s sides. Running boards is one simple solution to ensure protection against it. 

Enhance your truck performance and experience with Westin Running Boards or Westin Nerf Step Bars. The custom-built products they manufacture possess high endurance features and a unique stylish look. Westin truck products have been widely recognized and appraised on the market for the quality and variety of models.

thrasher series running boards

WESTIN RUNNING BOARDS REVIEW

Westin Running Boards are compatible with most truck manufacturers and models. You can choose the manufacturer, year of release, and model of the truck to get a custom set of Running Boards!

Most of the products do not require drilling or installation in the car service. But some models may not be compatible with your truck, so installation in the car service for those Running Boards would be preferable. 

Each model has an instruction and installation kit, so you’ll be ready to install it immediately after purchasing. Any truck owner can install the product by themselves in a matter of one hour. 

Running Boards manufactured by Westin provide just enough support for your feet while also giving some protection against dirt and moisture. Anti-slippery surface design of these running boards is one hundred percent safe in all weather. 

Here are some of the best Westin Running Boards products available for most trucks in 2022. 

WESTIN R7: thick and strong

This model is lightweight but extremely durable, with a comfortable anti-slippery surface and protection against dirt.

westin r7
Westin R7 Running Boards
  • Extra secure and close to the body of the vehicle with just a little gap in between for dirt release and convenient washing.
  • The R7 running board is seven inches wide and provides enough space for safe stepping. 
  • Step pad is manufactured using durable injection-molded polymer. 
  • Two finishes are available: polished stainless steel color and black aluminum with powder coating. 

WESTIN SG6 LED: illuminating running boards

This is a great running board model with all necessary features plus convenient lighting to help you make the right step in the dark.

sg6 polished running boards
Westin SG6 Running Boards
  • Modern, straightforward design with waterproof, protected LED lights. 
  • The SG6 running board is manufactured using extruded aluminum board base. 
  • Excellent protection against corrosion and moisture. 
  • Automatic LED light control with magnetic switches, responds to the doors opening and closing. 
  • A gap strip is included to be installed on a rocker panel. 
  • Black and polished finishes are available in the SG6 running board model.  
  • Anti-slippery surface that ensures feet stability. 

WESTIN MOLDED: stylish and illuminating

This model provides additional protection against deterioration that can be caused by excessive heat, sunlight, and different elements. Westin Molded is available both with and without LED lights, which offer a nice illumination in the dark.

westin molded polymer black lighted running boards
Westin Molded Running Boards
  • The Molded running board is manufactured on a durable aluminum base with a polymer surface treated with ultraviolet. 
  • Westin Molded is designed to be extra resistant to UV rays, moisture, weather conditions, and elements. The running board will not deteriorate, fade or get cracks. 
  • This model can be ordered with or without LED lights installed. 
  • The molded running board is easy to install but requires some drilling. Instruction and installation kit comes with the order. But installation in the car service is recommended by the manufacturer.
  • One of the widest running board models from Westin.

WESTIN SURE GRIP ALUMINUM: choose from three finishes

The Sure Grip model provides a comfortable traction even in the harshest weather but also protects the sides of the vehicle against debris.

westin sure grip black with brite trim running boards
Westin Sure Grip Running Boards
  • Reliable anti-slippery surface with rubber that works in any weather.
  • This model is four and a half inches wide and manufactured with extruded aluminum.
  • Powder-coated black, brushed, or polished aluminum finishes are available in the Sure Grip Aluminum model.
  • Some drilling may be required for a proper fit. Installation kit and instruction are included. Installation in the car service is recommended by the manufacturer. 

WESTIN STYLIZED: fresh design 

The minimalistic but reliable design of Westin Stylized is going to be a great enhancement for any truck.

westin stylized running boards
Westin Stylized Running Boards
  • Strong and reliable stepping surface throughout the whole area of the running board. 
  • The Stylized model is manufactured with extruded aluminum and rubber cover on the stepping area.
  • Gap strip is included to cover the space between the running board and the vehicle’s side.

WESTIN THRASHER: aggressive and stylish design

Unique, strict design is what makes Westin Thrasher a great choice for any truck. 

thrasher series running boards
Westin Thrasher Running Boards
  • Thrasher running board is manufactured using one-piece stamped and rugged steel.
  • Black powder-coated finish gives any truck an impressive and aggressive look. 
  • The surface of this model is designed to prevent slipping even in the iciest or wet weather. 
  • Openings on the whole area of the running board provide dirt and moisture repelling features.

WESTIN GRATE: one-piece reliable running board

The lowered and classic design of the Westin Grate running boards provides amazing weight support, you can stand on it with your full weight and feel on the top of the world.

grate steps running boards
Westin Grate Running Boards
  • The Grate running board model offers a classic but reliable design. 
  • One-piece construction provides good strength and weight support.
  • Classy design is combined with maximum traction.
  • Edges are serrated which allows anyone to clean boots before entering the vehicle. 
  • Six inches wide step surface is coated to ensure protection against corrosion, elements, and extreme weather. 
  • Westin Grate running board is available in textured black finish.
  • Mounting brackets, installation kit, and instruction are included in the order. Some trucks may require drilling or installation in the car service.

WESTIN NERF STEP BARS REVIEW

Nerf Step Bars are different from Running Boards in some features. While Running Boards have stepping areas throughout the whole upper area, Nerf Step Bars have stepping plates with traction surfaces. Running boards are flat, while Nerf Step Bars are oval or round with tubes strengthening the material. 

Nerf Step Bars also stay lower than Running boards and extend to the sides more for charismatic design. Running boards stick to the rocker panels, while Nerf Step Bars tend to leave space in between, which makes a truck’s sides more vulnerable to road debris. Thankfully, some Westin Nerf Step Bars models combine Nerf Step Bars features with Running Boards’ protective design.

westin nerf bars

Most of the products do not require drilling or installation in the car service. But some models may not be compatible with your truck, so installation in the car service for those Nerf Step Bars would be preferable. 

Each model has an instruction and installation kit, so you’ll be ready to install it immediately after purchasing. Any truck owner can install the product by themselves in a matter of one hour. 

Here are some of the best Westin Nerf Step Bars products available in 2022.

Westin HDX: minimalistic strength

Solid and durable, the Westin HDX nerf step bar doesn’t go to the extremes when it comes to design, but rather focuses on reliability and safety.

hdx nerf step bars
Westin HDX Nerf Step Bars
  • 410 stainless steel with black powder-coated finish provides fantastic resistance to corrosion.
  • The stepping platforms are sturdy, and the surface consists of die stamped stainless steel plates that provide ultimate traction.
  • Stepping plates are manufactured for heavy duty and considerable weight support.
  • Westin HDX nerf step bar has a one-piece construction but removable step plates for convenient cleaning.
  • Only one finish is available but it matches well with any truck design due to its minimalistic and strict design.

WESTIN HDX XTREME: stylish step bars

The expressive design of Westin HDX Xtreme is suitable for any truck. The model’s logo on the sides of these nerf step bars is a nice compliment to the design.

hdx xtreme nerf step bars
Westin HDX Xtreme Nerf Step Bars
  • Ample design of HDX Xtreme provides secure stepping.
  • This model is manufactured as a one-piece construction, which provides maximum strength that will last for years. 
  • Step pads are created using an injection molding technique.  
  • No gaps in between the nerf step bars and rocker panels, HDX Xtreme Nerf Step Bars provide important protection against road debris. 

WESTIN PRO TRAXX 4″, 5″ or 6″ nerf step bars are a godsend

Pro Traxx nerf step bars offer a durable and stylish oval tubing design. They shape around the truck’s side with neat compatibility both in performance and looks.

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  • This model’s tubing is four inches wide, which provides comfortable stepping.
  • Black stepping pads are reliable and secure in any situation. 
  • Waterways on the surface of stepping pads repel dirt and moisture.
  • Two materials are available to choose from. E-coated steel for a black finish and 304 stainless steel for a silver finish.
  • 4, 5, or 6 inches wide tubing are available to choose from, and different lengths if you want the wheel-to-wheel application.

WESTIN R5 M-Series: strict design, strong features

Wide and durable, Westin R5 M-Series is designed to be the perfect solution for a comfortable truck experience. No unnecessary bendings and curves, just a straightforward pair of nerf step bars that does its job to the fullest.

westin r5 m-series nerf step bars
Westin R5 M-Series Nerf Step Bars
  • Wide, 5 inches stepping area that ensures comfortable and safe entering into the truck.
  • High-quality material protected against corrosion, UV-rays, scratches, and extreme weather.
  • Westin Insignia on step pads that were manufactured using injection molding technique.
  • Stainless steel, chrome, or powder-coated black materials with appropriate finishes are available in the Westin R5 M-Series model.

WESTIN 3″ SIGNATURE SERIES: sleek and strong

Nerf Step Bars from the Signature Series of Westin are a great fit for any vehicle. This model provides maximum durability and stylistic aesthetics.

3 inch e series round nerf step bars
Westin 3″ Signature Series Nerf Step Bars
  • Westin Signature Series is manufactured with recessed steel, rather than cut-out pieces, which provides greater strength and performance.
  • Burly three inches diameter mild steel is used for each step bar. 
  • Two finishes are available: powder-coated smooth black and bright chrome plating. 
  • Westin Signature Series is designed to be highly resistant to elements, UV-rays, and temperature changes. 

WESTIN OUTLAW DROP: lowered and comfortable steps

This model of nerf step bars is an affordable and recommended customization for any truck. It has the durability of nerf step bars and the width of running boards, ensuring safety and protecting the vehicle’s sides finish against road debris.

outlaw drop nerf step bars
Westin Outlaw Drop Nerf Step Bars
  • The main part of the Westin Outlaw nerf step bar is 1.5 inches tube from mandrel-bent steel. 
  • Step plates are four inches wide and ensure maximum traction while cleaning the soles of the boots from dirt. 
  • Westin Outlaw has high protection properties against corrosion, UV-rays, elements, and extreme weather conditions.

WESTIN OUTLAW NERF STEP BARS: flat version of the Outlaw series

Although this model lacks the lowered steps, it was enhanced in all other features. More thick and strong tubing, more durable structure, surface improvements, and other important upgrades. 

outlaw series black rock rails
Westin Outlaw Series Nerf Step Bars
  • Enhanced tubing is 2 inches wide, which is 0.5 more than in the previous model. It positively influenced durability level and increased weight support. 
  • Step plates are made out of sixteen gauge steel.
  • Rocker panels are properly protected against road debris.
  • Outlaw Nerf fits tightly to the vehicle sides, leaving no unnecessary gaps. 
  • Anti-slippery surface of the nerf step bar ensure your safety in any weather.
  • Silicone sealant is applied to remove any unwanted vibrations.

WESTIN 3″ or 4″ PLATINUM OVAL: minimalistic excellency 

The Platinum Oval model is perfectly fit for any type of truck and looks amazing with its visible oval tube. The material provides maximum resistance to most harmful elements: no corrosion or stains are going to deteriorate the product.

platinum oval tube step bars
Westin Platinum Oval Nerf Step Bars
  • Oval tubing is four inches wide and can be manufactured either from polished 304 stainless steel or mild steel with black powder coating. 
  • Tube ends on both sides are mandrel-bent, which gives the truck a unique look.
  • Step pads are molded and created with a classic wide design featuring anti-slippery properties.
  • Cab-length and wheel-to-wheel types are available in the Westin Platinum Oval model.

WESTIN 3″ E-SERIES: beauty in simplicity

This model continues a classic look of nerf step bars, leaving a wide space between the tubing and the truck’s side. An amazing choice for someone who looks for a balance between a reasonable price and great quality.

westin e series side bars
Westin E-Series Nerf Step Bars
  • Step pads in the Westin E-series are installed to a tube recess, which is much more durable than usual cut-outs.
  • Three different materials and designs are available in the E-series.
  • Black powder-coated model from mild steel has stainless brackets. 
  • Polished stainless steel model has either black or stainless brackets.

WESTIN R5 M-SERIES XD: a lower model of the standard R5 M-Series

This nerf step bar model is manufactured to be the best wheel-to-wheel stepping helper, with a low step-up surface and aggressive design. 

r5 m series xd nerf step bars
Westin R5 M-Series XD Nerf Step Bars
  • R5 M-Series XD is lower than the standard R5 M-Series by three inches. 
  • The product has a modular design which can save some money on shipping. 
  • The third step is included for assistance in the access to the truck bed. 
  • Step pads are manufactured using injection-molded polymer. 
  • Step area is comfortable due to 5 inches width. It provides anti-slippery features and is strengthened against elements. 
  • Bracket covers are included with the R5 M-Series XD nerf step bars.

WESTIN PREMIER 6″: unsophisticated comfort

Designed for a comfortable truck experience, Westin Premier is the model to go when you’re not looking for something too extravagant. Instead of a unique design, these nerf step bars provide a high level of durability and traction. 

6 inch premier oval step bars
Westin Premier 6″  Nerf Step Bars
  • Solid construction has six inches wide tubing in the center. It provides maximum weight support and strength.
  • Stepping areas are five inches wide with anti-slippery features. The surface is protected against elements, UV-rays, and other types of deterioration. 
  • Two materials with two finishes are available in Premier Model from Westin. Mild steel with black powder coating. And stainless steel with a polished finish. 

WESTIN GENX: divided design

GenX model of nerf step bars from Westin offers a unique design that will add class to the truck, but also heavy-duty materials for extreme weight support.

westin genx nerf step bars
Westin GenX Oval Drop Nerf Step Bars
  • Nerf step bars stepping areas provide safety and stability when entering the truck. 
  • The main tubing is four inches wide, which provides high-level strength.
  • The stepping area tubing is two inches wide, which is more than enough for weight support.
  • Safe step plates are installed on the stepping tubes with a comfortable anti-slippery surface.
  • Two materials with appropriate color finishes are available in GenX nerf step bars. Mild steel with black powder coating. And 304 stainless sleet with a polished finish. 
  • Tube ends are welded and sealed for protection against rusting.           
  • Westin GenX nerf step bars are easy to install, but some vehicles may require drilling. Installation in the car service is recommended. 

Why Should I Choose Westin Running Boards and Nerf Step Bars?

Westin company offers multiple advantages both in the products they manufacture and in the customer affairs. 

All Westin Running Boards and Nerf Step Bars are produced to provide maximum traction in any condition. Snow, ice, rain, or dirt will not decrease the safety of stepping onto the surface. They are reliable and provide perfect weight support. 

Westin products are available for different car manufacturers and models, so you can be sure to find exactly what your vehicle needs! Running boards have a unique streamlined design, which will make your vehicle stand out in the parking lot. Whatever product you choose will enhance your truck’s performance and look.

Instruction and the installation kit will be included in each purchased Westin product. Additional required fastenings and installation parts are included. It means that any truck owner can install a purchased running board in their garage and it wouldn’t take longer than one hour.

Westin has been on the market since the 1970s and to this day it is regarded as one of the most popular and reliable manufacturers of truck parts. If you desire to customize and enhance your truck, definitely consider Westin Running Boards.