Looking Beyond the ARIES 204018 3-Inch Round Black? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Comparing 6 Alternative Nerf Bars

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Ford F-150 SuperCrew

The Tyger Auto 3.5-inch Rider Running Board targets Ford SuperCrew cabs, unlike the Aries bars designed for Chevy and GMC trucks. It features a wider 3.5-inch step surface compared to the 3-inch round tube on the Aries unit. This broader profile offers more stable footing for daily entry. The oval tube shape provides a different aesthetic than the classic round design. You get a textured black finish that resists rust, similar to the Aries powder coat. Installation requires bolt-on methods rather than the no-drill approach of the Aries bars. If you drive a Ford and need a wider step, this model is a practical choice. It sacrifices the custom-bent contour of the Aries for a robust, universal-style fit on Ford platforms.

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards

This Tyger Auto option is built specifically for Ram 1500 Quad Cabs, making it incompatible with the Chevy and GMC trucks the Aries bars serve. The 3.5-inch oval tube is wider than the 3-inch round tube on the Aries bars, providing a larger stepping surface. The textured black finish offers corrosion resistance comparable to the Aries powder coat. However, the installation method differs, relying on bolt-on hardware rather than the no-drill system of the Aries product. The oval shape changes the visual style from the traditional round look. You get a 500 lb weight capacity, which ensures durability for heavy use. If you own a Ram Quad Cab, this alternative provides a stable, wide step that the original Aries bars cannot accommodate due to vehicle-specific fitment constraints.

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Nissan Titan

Designed for Nissan Titan Crew Cabs, this Tyger Auto running board replaces the Aries bars for owners of Nissan trucks. The 3.5-inch oval tube is wider than the 3-inch round Aries tube, offering a more substantial step. The textured black finish matches the rugged look of the Aries black powder coat but uses an oval profile instead. Installation involves bolt-on hardware, differing from the no-drill mounting of the Aries bars. The oval shape provides a modern aesthetic compared to the classic round style. You benefit from a high weight capacity suitable for daily off-road entry. If you drive a Titan, this alternative is essential as the Aries bars do not fit. It trades the custom contour of the Aries for a sturdy, wide step tailored to Nissan platforms.

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards

This Tyger Auto model fits Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cabs, unlike the Aries bars which are for Chevy and GMC trucks. The 3.5-inch oval tube is wider than the 3-inch round tube on the Aries bars, giving you a more stable step. The textured black finish provides rust protection similar to the Aries powder coat. Installation uses bolt-on methods, differing from the no-drill system of the Aries product. The oval shape offers a distinct look compared to the classic round design. You get a durable build suitable for frequent use. If you own a Ram Crew Cab, this alternative is the correct choice. It sacrifices the custom-bent fit of the Aries for a robust, wide step designed specifically for Dodge platforms, ensuring compatibility where the original bars fail.

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Oval Nerf Bars

The Tyger Auto 3.5-inch Oval Running Board is made for Chevy Colorado Crew Cabs, whereas the Aries bars fit larger Chevy and GMC trucks. The 3.5-inch step is wider than the 3-inch round tube on the Aries bars, providing better footing in a smaller vehicle. The textured black finish matches the corrosion-resistant look of the Aries powder coat. The oval tube shape differs from the round design of the Aries unit. Installation requires bolt-on hardware, unlike the no-drill approach of the Aries bars. You get a durable step suitable for daily use. If you drive a Colorado, this alternative is necessary as the Aries bars do not fit. It trades the heavy-wall steel contour of the Aries for a wide, stable step tailored to mid-size truck platforms.

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Tacoma Double Cab

This Tyger Auto running board fits Toyota Tacoma Double Cabs, making it incompatible with the Chevy and GMC trucks the Aries bars serve. The 3.5-inch oval tube is wider than the 3-inch round tube on the Aries bars, offering a larger stepping surface. The textured black finish provides rust resistance similar to the Aries powder coat. Installation uses bolt-on hardware, differing from the no-drill system of the Aries product. The oval shape changes the aesthetic from the classic round look. You get a sturdy build for off-road entry. If you own a Tacoma, this alternative is the only viable option. It sacrifices the custom contour of the Aries for a robust, wide step designed for Toyota platforms, ensuring a secure fit where the original bars cannot be installed.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Aries 3-Inch Round Steel Nerf Bars

Best for: Chevy and GMC trucks needing durable side steps

Material

carbon steel

Step Width

3 inches

Tube Shape

round

Installation

no-drill

Finish

black powder coat

Style

Nerf Bars

View on Amazon: Aries 3-Inch Round Steel Nerf Bars Affiliate link

These Aries 3-inch round nerf bars are custom-bent carbon steel tubes with a black powder coat finish. They feature no-drill mounting and include non-skid step pads for reliable footing. The heavy-wall tubing offers rigidity and a sleek look. This set fits select Chevrolet and GMC models like the Tahoe and Yukon. It suits buyers seeking durable, vehicle-specific side steps without installation complexity.

Pros

• Custom-bent to contour to specific vehicle bodies
• Heavy-wall 3-inch diameter carbon steel tubes
• Black powder coat finish for corrosion resistance
• No-drill installation method
• Includes custom-positioned non-skid step pads

Cons

• Limited to select Chevrolet and GMC model years
• Round tube shape may not suit all aesthetic preferences
• Steel construction adds noticeable weight to the vehicle

Good fit if

• You own a compatible Chevrolet or GMC truck or SUV
• You want durable steel steps with a black finish
• You prefer no-drill installation for easy mounting

Skip if

• You drive a Ford, Ram, or Dodge vehicle
• You need aluminum or stainless steel materials
• You require a different tube shape or size

Verdict: Aries 3-Inch Round Steel Nerf Bars provide sturdy, custom-fit side steps for compatible Chevy and GMC trucks. They are ideal for owners who value heavy-wall steel durability and straightforward no-drill installation.

2 Also great

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Ford F-150 SuperCrew

Best for: Ford SuperCrew cabs needing wide steps

Compatible Vehicle

2015-2027 Ford F-150, F-250 F-350 SD

Cab Size

SuperCrew Cab

Material

carbon steel

Step Width

3.5 in

Tube Shape

oval

Installation

no-drill

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Ford F-150 SuperCrew Affiliate link

This Tyger Auto running board uses an oval tube design to provide a 3.5-inch step width for improved stability. It is constructed from seamless carbon steel with a heavy textured powder finish for rust protection. The unit supports 500 pounds and requires no drilling for installation. It fits Ford F-150 and Super Duty SuperCrew cabs, offering a durable step solution for these specific truck models.

Pros

• Oval tube design provides a wider 3.5-inch step surface
• Seamless carbon steel construction with heavy textured powder finish
• Supports up to 500 pounds of weight
• No drilling required for installation

Cons

• Only fits SuperCrew cab configurations
• Adds approximately 4.61 inches to vehicle height
• Limited to Ford F-150 and Super Duty models

Good fit if

• You drive a Ford F-150 or Super Duty SuperCrew cab
• You prefer a wider step surface for easier entry
• You want a durable, rust-resistant finish

Skip if

• You have a SuperCab or Regular Cab truck
• You need running boards for a non-Ford vehicle
• You require a stainless steel finish

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Rider Running Boards is a sturdy option for Ford SuperCrew owners who need a wide, stable step. It delivers solid weight capacity and rust protection for daily use.

3 Best quad cab

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards

Best for: stable stepping on 2019-2026 Ram 1500 Quad Cabs

Compatible Vehicle

2019-2027 Ram 1500

Cab Size

Quad Cab

Material

Carbon steel

Step Width

3.5 inch

Tube Shape

Oval

Finish

E-coating textured powder finish

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Affiliate link

These Tyger Auto running boards are designed for the 2019-2026 Ram 1500 Quad Cab. They feature a 3.5-inch oval tube that provides a wider, more stable step surface than round tubes. The carbon steel construction includes a textured black E-coating and powder finish for rust resistance. You get a 500 lb weight capacity and approximately 9 inches of ground clearance. This setup fits trucks with two full-size front doors and two narrower rear doors.

Pros

• 3.5-inch oval tube offers a wider step surface for greater stability
• Seamless carbon steel tube with E-coating and textured powder finish
• Supports up to 500 lb weight capacity
• Includes all necessary hardware and brackets for mounting

Cons

• Excludes 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models
• Not compatible with Crew Cab or Mega Cab configurations
• 40.8 lb weight per side adds significant mass to the vehicle

Good fit if

• You drive a 2019-2026 Ram 1500 Quad Cab
• You want a wider step surface for easier entry and exit
• You prefer a textured black finish that resists rust and corrosion

Skip if

• You own a Ram 1500 Classic, Crew Cab, or Mega Cab
• You need stainless steel accents instead of black textured coatings
• You require a lighter accessory that does not add over 40 lbs per side

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Boards provide a stable, rust-resistant step for 2019-2026 Ram 1500 Quad Cab owners. The wider oval tube and 500 lb capacity make them ideal for daily use, provided your truck matches the specific door configuration.

4 Best nissan titan

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Nissan Titan

Best for: Nissan Titan Crew Cab owners needing wide steps

Cab Size

Crew Cab

Material

Carbon steel

Step Width

3.5 inches

Tube Shape

Oval

Installation

Bolt-on, no drilling required

Finish

E-coating heavy textured powder finish

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Nissan Titan Affiliate link

These running boards feature a 3.5-inch oval tube design for a wider step surface compared to round tubes. They are constructed from carbon steel with a heavy textured powder finish for rust resistance. The kit includes both sides and mounts via bolt-on hardware without drilling. They offer a 500 lb weight capacity and sit approximately 13 inches from the ground. This option suits Nissan Titan owners seeking durable side steps.

Pros

• 3.5-inch oval tube provides a wider step surface
• 500 lb weight capacity for heavy use
• Seamless carbon steel with E-coating and powder finish
• Bolt-on installation requires no drilling

Cons

• Limited to Crew Cab models only
• Heavier build at 37.6 pounds
• Only available in Textured Black

Good fit if

• You drive a 2004-2015 or 2017-2024 Nissan Titan Crew Cab
• You want a wider step surface for easier entry
• You prefer a rugged textured black finish

Skip if

• You have a Double Cab or Extended Cab Titan
• You need stainless steel styling
• You require a lower step height than 13 inches

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Boards offer a stable, wide step for Nissan Titan Crew Cab owners who prioritize durability and a rugged look. They are a solid choice for those needing a 500 lb capacity and straightforward bolt-on installation.

5 Also great

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards

Best for: 2010-2018 Dodge Ram Crew Cab stability

Cab Size

Crew Cab

Material

Carbon steel

Step Width

3.5 inches

Tube Shape

Oval

Finish

Textured black powder coat

Weight Capacity

500 lb

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards Affiliate link

These oval tube running boards offer a 3.5-inch step width for enhanced stability. They are built from carbon steel with a textured black powder coat finish. The design provides a wider step surface than round tubes. They fit 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 Crew Cabs. You get a 500 lb weight capacity and a 3-year warranty.

Pros

• 3.5-inch oval tube step width for wider footing
• 500 lb weight capacity
• Seamless carbon steel construction with E-coating
• 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects

Cons

• Requires minor drilling for 2009-2011 models
• Not compatible with Quad Cab or Mega Cab
• Heavier build at 38.4 pounds

Good fit if

• You drive a 2010-2018 Dodge Ram Crew Cab
• You prefer a wider step surface for stability
• You want durable carbon steel construction

Skip if

• You have a Quad Cab or Mega Cab
• You drive a 2019 or newer Ram 1500
• You need a no-drill installation for older models

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Boards provide a stable, wide step for 2010-2018 Dodge Ram Crew Cab owners who need durable, rust-resistant protection.

6 Best premium

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Oval Nerf Bars

Best for: Chevy Colorado Crew Cab step stability

Compatible Vehicle

2015-2027 Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon

Cab Size

Crew Cab

Width

3.5-Inch

Style

Nerf Bars

Finish

Black

Dimensions

80.1 × 4.61 × 2.95 inches

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Oval Nerf Bars Affiliate link

These running boards feature an oval tube design with a 3.5-inch step width for a wider, more stable footing. The textured black finish resists scratches and fits 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cabs. They bolt on without drilling and support up to 500 pounds. The unit weighs 30.3 pounds and provides approximately 11 inches of ground clearance.

Pros

• 3.5-inch oval tube provides a wider step surface
• 500 lb weight capacity for sturdy support
• No-drill bolt-on installation in about 20 minutes
• Textured black finish for scratch resistance

Cons

• Heavier at 30.3 pounds than round tube alternatives
• Limited to Crew Cab size only
• Only one height option available

Good fit if

• You want a wider step for easier entry
• You drive a 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado Crew Cab
• You prefer a textured black finish

Skip if

• You have a Double Cab or Extended Cab
• You need a stainless steel appearance
• You want a lighter weight installation

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Board offers a stable 3.5-inch step for Chevy Colorado Crew Cab owners who prioritize width and durability over minimal weight.

7 Best budget

Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Tacoma Double Cab

Best for: Tacoma Double Cab owners needing wide steps

Compatible Vehicle

2024-2027 Toyota Tacoma (Fits Hybrid)

Cab Size

Double Cab

Material

carbon steel

Step Width

3.5 inches

Tube Shape

oval

Installation

no-drill bolt-on

View on Amazon: Tyger Auto 3.5" Rider Running Boards for Tacoma Double Cab Affiliate link

These Tyger Auto running boards feature a 3.5-inch oval tube step pad designed for the 2024-2027 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. The carbon steel construction includes a textured black powder E-coating for rust resistance. They offer a 500 lb weight capacity and no-drill bolt-on installation. You get a wider, more stable step surface compared to round tubes, with approximately 13 inches of ground clearance.

Pros

• 3.5-inch oval tube provides a wider step surface
• 500 lb weight capacity for heavy use
• Textured black powder E-coating resists rust and corrosion
• No-drill bolt-on installation in about 20 minutes

Cons

• Only fits Double Cab models, not Access Cab
• Specific to 2024-2027 Toyota Tacoma
• Heavier build at 28 pounds

Good fit if

• You drive a 2024-2027 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
• You want a wider, more stable step surface
• You prefer a rugged, textured black finish

Skip if

• You own an Access Cab Tacoma
• You drive a Ford, Ram, or Dodge truck
• You need stainless steel accents

Verdict: Tyger Auto 3.5" Oval Running Boards suit Tacoma owners needing a sturdy, wide step. The oval design and high weight capacity make them practical for daily use and off-road entry.

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