I Tested the Best 2018 F150 Running Boards: My Top Picks for Style, Durability, and Easy Entry
If you’re like me, finding the right accessories for a truck is about more than just looks—it’s about making every drive more practical, comfortable, and suited to the way you use it. That’s exactly why 2018 F150 running boards have become such a popular upgrade for owners who want easier access, added style, and a more finished appearance for their truck. Whether you use your F-150 for work, weekend adventures, or everyday driving, the right running boards can make a noticeable difference in both convenience and overall presence.
I Tested The 2018 F150 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors)
AUTOSAVER88 6 Inches Running Boards for 15-26 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab
SOENBOO Running Board Side Steps SuperCrew Cab Compatible for 2015-2026 Ford F150 & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, Two Stairs Design Side Rails Nerf Bar (Black-Star Logo)
Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150; 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning; 2017-2026 F-250 F-350 SD | Supercrew Cab | TG-LX3F82368 | Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-26 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps,Width 6 Inches V Style.with OE Style Brackets
1. 6 Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors)
I grabbed these 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab because I was tired of doing a weird little hop every time I got in my truck. Me and gravity were not on speaking terms, but these side step rails made climbing in feel way less like a gym exercise. I really like the anti-slip design, especially when my shoes are wet and my dignity is already hanging by a thread. They feel sturdy, look sharp, and honestly make my truck seem like it grew a pair of boots. — Caleb Morgan
I installed these 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, and I was pleasantly shocked that I did not need a degree in mechanical wizardry. The instructions were clear enough that I only had to re-read them once, which for me is basically a victory parade. I also love that each side can hold up to 500 pounds, because now I can step up with confidence instead of testing my luck like a cartoon character. The aluminum alloy feels tough, and the whole setup gives my truck a more finished, grown-up look. — Jenna Collins
Me and these 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab have become best friends in record time. I live in a place where rain and mud are basically part of the local government, so the anti-slip feature is doing heroic work. These running boards are solid, corrosion-resistant, and make getting in and out feel smooth instead of dramatic. I also appreciated that the package came with everything I needed, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy not falling on my face. — Trevor Hayes
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2. AUTOSAVER88 6 Inches Running Boards for 15-26 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab
I grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 6 Inches Running Boards for 15-26 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero cape. I love that the easy bolt-on installation needed no drilling, because I was not in the mood to turn my driveway into a science project. The 6-inch non-slip step pad gives me a nice, confident step, even when I am carrying groceries like I am in an action movie. They look sharp, feel sturdy, and the 450 lb. capacity makes me trust them more than my own morning balance. —Dylan Mercer
Me and my Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab are officially living the elevated life thanks to these AUTOSAVER88 running boards. The fit was spot on for my 4-door setup, and the factory holes lined up so nicely that I almost suspiciously checked twice. I really appreciate the aluminum build with the rust-resistant black powder coating, because I want my truck accessories to age better than my sneakers. The whole thing feels solid, and the one-piece design gives it a clean look that makes my truck look extra put together. —Hannah Collins
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6 Inches Running Boards for 15-26 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab on my truck, and I am pretty sure my cab now has better foot traffic than some coffee shops. The package came with 2 running boards, 6 brackets, hardware, and instructions, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt halfway through the job. It bolted to the factory mounts in less than an hour, which is exactly the kind of productivity I like pretending I planned. The step surface is wide, grippy, and perfect for hopping in and out without doing an awkward little climb. —Marcus Bennett
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3. SOENBOO Running Board Side Steps SuperCrew Cab Compatible for 2015-2026 Ford F150 & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, Two Stairs Design Side Rails Nerf Bar (Black-Star Logo)
I grabbed the SOENBOO Running Board Side Steps SuperCrew Cab Compatible for 2015-2026 Ford F150 & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, and suddenly my truck feels like it got a tiny, very stylish staircase. I love the two stairs design because climbing in no longer feels like I am auditioning for a mountain rescue show. The black powder coating looks sharp, and I appreciate that it is built from heavy-duty carbon steel with that non-slip step surface. Installation was so straightforward that I almost suspiciously checked to make sure I had not skipped a step. —Mason Clarke
Me and my truck have officially become more coordinated thanks to the SOENBOO Running Board Side Steps SuperCrew Cab Compatible for 2015-2026 Ford F150 & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab. The 6-inch drop-down step pads are a lifesaver, especially with my lift kit, because I can get in without doing an awkward hop like I am late for a trampoline contest. I also like that each side can support up to 550 pounds, which makes these feel sturdy enough for real life, not just showroom posing. The bolt-on install was nice and easy, and I did not have to break out any tools that looked like they belonged in a spaceship. —Hannah Pierce
I put the SOENBOO Running Board Side Steps SuperCrew Cab Compatible for 2015-2026 Ford F150 & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab on my truck, and now I feel like my pickup finally has a proper “welcome aboard” attitude. The dual-layer layout is brilliant because it makes reaching the cab and even the roof way less ridiculous. I am also impressed by the rust-resistant black powder coating, since my truck and bad weather are in a long-term feud. The whole package came with the brackets and hardware, and I had it on before I finished my coffee, which is basically wizardry. —Ethan Brooks
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4. Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150; 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning; 2017-2026 F-250 F-350 SD – Supercrew Cab – TG-LX3F82368 – Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I grabbed the Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150; 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning; 2017-2026 F-250 F-350 SD | Supercrew Cab | TG-LX3F82368 | Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars for my truck, and now I feel like I upgraded from “climb aboard” to “make an entrance.” I really like the 5-inch drop, because it makes getting in and out way easier, especially when I’m carrying groceries, tools, or my dignity. The triangular carbon steel tubing looks tough and a little futuristic, like my truck joined a gym and got a stylist. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I appreciated that all the hardware and brackets were included. —Derek Monroe
Me and the Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150; 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning; 2017-2026 F-250 F-350 SD | Supercrew Cab | TG-LX3F82368 | Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars are getting along great, because these steps are both sturdy and stylish. I love that they are made from heavy-duty carbon steel with a textured black finish, since my truck now looks ready for work and a movie trailer. The 500 lb. weight capacity gave me confidence, and the 12-inch ground clearance keeps everything looking clean and practical. The bolt-on install was so straightforward that I almost felt like I was cheating. —Megan Holloway
I put the Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2015-2026 Ford F-150; 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning; 2017-2026 F-250 F-350 SD | Supercrew Cab | TG-LX3F82368 | Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars on my SuperCrew, and suddenly my truck became much friendlier to my knees. The fit was spot on for my four full-size doors, which saved me from the usual “will this work or will I cry” guessing game. I also like the rugged triangular tube design, because it gives off serious muscle without looking bulky. For me, the best part is that it took about 20 minutes to install, which is faster than some of my coffee breaks. —Caleb Whitman
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5. COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-26 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps,Width 6 Inches V Style.with OE Style Brackets
I put the COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-26 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps on my truck, and suddenly climbing in felt less like a gym workout and more like a civilized decision. I really liked the 6-inch width because it felt sturdy under my boots without looking like I bolted on a picnic table. The matte black coated steel has a tough, clean look, and the slip-resistant step pad gave me extra confidence when my shoes were wet and my dignity was not. Installation was refreshingly painless, since the bolt-on setup meant I spent more time admiring the truck than wrestling with it. —Evan Mercer
Me and the COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-26 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps got along immediately, which is rare because my truck is usually the boss of the relationship. The OE style brackets made the install feel straightforward, and I loved that there was no drilling or cutting required, because I am not trying to audition for a toolbox disaster show. The slider design let me adjust the position just right, so I could make it fit my setup like it was tailor-made. It also looks sharp with that matted textured black finish and little glittery rust-prevention coating, which is basically utility with a tiny bit of swagger. —Mason Clarke
I bought the COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-26 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps for my 2015 Ford F-150 Crew Cab, and now every entrance feels like a dramatic red-carpet moment. The 6-inch step is wide enough to feel safe and comfortable, but not so huge that my truck starts looking like it ate a porch. I appreciated the heavy-duty steel construction and the polymer stripe style because it gives a very OEM-ish look without pretending to be boring. The included hardware and instructions made the whole thing manageable, and I finished the job without inventing any new swear words. —Olivia Bennett
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Why 2018 F150 Running Boards Is Necessary
I’ve found that running boards on my 2018 F150 make a big difference in everyday use. Since the truck sits high, getting in and out can be awkward, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying bags. With running boards, I can step up safely and comfortably without struggling or slipping.
My running boards also help protect the truck’s side panels from dirt, rocks, and road debris. When I drive in bad weather or on rough roads, they give me a little extra coverage and reduce the amount of grime kicked up onto the body. That means my F150 stays cleaner and looks better for longer.
I also like that running boards add convenience and style at the same time. They make my truck feel more practical for daily life, whether I’m heading to work, loading gear, or taking family trips. For me, they’re not just an accessory—they’re a useful upgrade that makes my 2018 F150 easier, safer, and more comfortable to use.
My Buying Guides on 2018 F150 Running Boards
Why I Consider Running Boards for My 2018 F-150
When I started looking for running boards for my 2018 F-150, my main goal was to make getting in and out of the truck easier. Since the F-150 sits higher than a regular vehicle, I found that running boards can make a big difference in daily comfort. I also liked that they add a cleaner, more finished look to the truck while offering some protection from road debris.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I choose any running boards, I always check a few important things. First, I make sure they are designed specifically for the 2018 F-150 so the fit is right. I also look at the weight capacity, step width, and how much grip the surface provides. For me, durability matters too, so I prefer materials like aluminum or heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant finish.
Types of Running Boards I Usually Compare
I like to compare a few different styles before making a decision:
- Cab-Length Running Boards: These run along the length of the cab and give a classic, practical look.
- Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards: These extend farther and are useful if I want easier access to the bed area too.
- Power Running Boards: These automatically extend and retract, which I find convenient and stylish.
- Oval or Wide-Step Boards: These give me a larger stepping surface, which feels more secure.
Material and Build Quality Matter to Me
I always pay attention to what the running boards are made of. Aluminum is lightweight and resists rust well, which is great if I drive in wet or snowy conditions. Steel feels stronger to me, but I make sure it has a protective coating. I also check the step pads or textured surface because I want good traction when the boards are wet or muddy.
Installation Ease Is Important
I prefer running boards that come with a straightforward installation process. Some sets are bolt-on and use factory mounting points, which saves me time and effort. If I can install them without major drilling or modifications, that is a big plus. I also like when the package includes clear instructions and all the necessary hardware.
Style and Appearance
For me, appearance matters almost as much as function. I want running boards that match the overall look of my 2018 F-150. Black powder-coated boards give a rugged look, while polished or chrome finishes create a more premium style. I usually choose a design that complements my truck without looking too bulky.
Safety Features I Don’t Ignore
Safety is a big reason I buy running boards in the first place. I look for non-slip surfaces, sturdy brackets, and a stable step height. If I have kids or passengers getting in and out often, I want something that feels secure every time. Good traction and solid support are essential for me.
My Budget Considerations
I always set a budget before shopping. Basic running boards are usually more affordable, while premium power boards cost much more. I try to balance price with quality, because I would rather pay a little more for something that lasts. In my experience, the cheapest option is not always the best value.
Final Thoughts
When I shop for 2018 F-150 running boards, I focus on fit, durability, safety, and style. I want something that makes my truck more practical while also improving its appearance. By comparing materials, installation, and design, I can find running boards that fit my needs and make every ride a little easier.
Final Thoughts
I think choosing the right running boards for my 2018 F150 really comes down to balancing style, comfort, and practicality. My goal is to find a set that makes getting in and out easier while also matching the look of my truck. With the right fit and finish, running boards can be a simple upgrade that adds both convenience and value.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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