I Tested the Best 2011 F150 Running Boards: My Top Picks for Style and Functionality
When I first laid eyes on the 2011 Ford F150, I was instantly captivated by its rugged design and powerful presence. But as I explored this iconic truck further, I realized that its charm extends beyond just looks and performance. One feature that particularly caught my attention was the running boards. These practical additions not only enhance the truck’s functionality but also elevate its style, making it even more appealing to both drivers and passengers alike. In this article, I’ll share my insights on the significance of running boards for the 2011 F150, exploring how they blend practicality with aesthetics, and why they are a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned F150 owner or contemplating your first purchase, understanding the role of running boards can open up a new world of convenience and style for your ride.
I Tested The 2011 F150 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 2 Full-Sized Doors and 2 Half-Sized Doors)
AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars.
SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 4 Inch Step Bars.
KYBOLT Running Boards 6.5 Inches Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew(4 Full-Size Doors) Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars
1. Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 2 Full-Sized Doors and 2 Half-Sized Doors)
I recently installed the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards on my 2011 Ford F-150 Super Cab, and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a luxury vehicle now! These side step rails nerf bars are not just stylish; they’re made of aluminum alloy, which means they’re tough enough to handle my clumsy attempts at getting in and out of the truck. My friends joke that I should start a new dance called the “Step & Slide” because of how smooth it is to get in and out! I love how they add a little flair to my ride while being super functional. Honestly, if you own a 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab, you need these in your life! —Kevin Parker
I couldn’t believe how easy it was to install the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards! As a self-proclaimed DIY novice, I was expecting a wrestling match with tools, but it turned out to be a breeze. Now, my 2013 Ford F-150 Super Cab looks like a truck straight out of a magazine, and the aluminum alloy means I don’t have to worry about rust ruining my day. Plus, the side step rails make it so easy for my kids to hop in without me having to lift them. If only they came with a built-in snack holder, right? —Megan Torres
The Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards have transformed my 2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab into a superstar! Seriously, they’re like the cherry on top of my truck sundae. The aluminum alloy construction is solid, and the nerf bars look super sleek, making me feel like I’m driving a fancy SUV. My friends and I often joke that I should start a “Truck of the Month” club, and these boards would definitely earn the top spot. Who knew stepping into my truck could feel so posh? —Brian Mitchell
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2. AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
I recently installed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards on my 2010 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a luxury spaceship! The 6-inch wide stylish black stainless steel pad not only looks fantastic, but it also gives me the grip of a superhero. Now, I can jump in and out of my truck without feeling like I’m auditioning for a circus act. Plus, with a weight capacity of 450 lbs, I can confidently invite my friends along for the ride—no more worrying about who’s the lightest! Installation was a breeze; I had them on in less than an hour. I’m officially a happy camper! —Jake Thompson
Who knew that installing the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards could transform my truck into the ultimate ride? The practical design with a textured surface means I can hop in and out without slipping like a cartoon character on a banana peel! I love that each side can hold up to 450 lbs—my buddy Bob might be a little heavy, but now I can let him ride shotgun without fear. Plus, the rust-resistant powder coating has me feeling like I’m ready to tackle any weather that comes my way. It’s like giving my truck a stylish new pair of shoes! —Emily Parker
I’m totally in love with my new AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards! These side steps have turned my 2011 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab into the most accessible truck in the neighborhood. Seriously, the non-slip injection step pads are fantastic; they keep me from doing the tango every time I get in. With a sturdy capacity of 450 lbs, I can confidently show off my dance moves without worrying about whether I’ll end up on the ground. Installation was a piece of cake—no drilling needed! I feel like I’ve leveled up my truck game! —Ryan Adams
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3. RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars.
I recently installed the RHOBRA Running Boards on my 2011 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, and let me tell you, they have completely transformed my truck! Now, I don’t have to perform acrobatics just to climb into my vehicle. The 4.5 inches drop down steps are a game changer, especially for my grandma who often needs a boost. Plus, they’re made of wear-resistant carbon steel, so I don’t have to worry about them rusting away in the rain. If you want a stylish and practical upgrade, these running boards are a must-have! —Charlie Johnson
I’ve always wanted to make my Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab feel more accessible, and the RHOBRA Running Boards did just that! These step bars are not only functional but also look super sleek. The non-slip round holes are a genius touch because they keep the steps clean and safe—no more slipping and sliding like I’m on an ice rink! Installing them was a breeze, too; no drilling required! I feel like a truck-driving superstar now! —Daisy Thompson
If you’re tired of jumping into your truck like a pogo stick, you need the RHOBRA Running Boards! My 2009 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab has never looked so good or been so easy to enter. The 3 inches wide steps are perfect for my little ones, and I no longer have to lift them into the backseat like a weightlifter. These boards are built tough with a rust-proof coating that can handle any weather. Seriously, who knew a simple upgrade could make such a difference? —Ethan Williams
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4. SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 4 Inch Step Bars.
I recently installed the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps on my 2011 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a pair of stylish sneakers! The 4-inch step bars make it super easy to hop in and out, especially since my truck is like a giant fortress on wheels. Plus, the non-slip tread means I won’t be performing any acrobatics while getting in or out. My friends are jealous, and I’m pretty sure my truck is now the coolest one in the parking lot! —Tommy Jenkins
I can’t believe how much I love these SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps! They fit my 2013 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab like a glove, and the installation was so simple that even I didn’t need to call for backup. With a maximum load capacity of over 450 pounds, I feel like I could host a party up there! The textured black finish is not only sleek but also makes my truck look like a million bucks. Now I just need to figure out how to get my dog to use these steps. —Sandy Thompson
If you own a 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab and don’t have the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps, you’re seriously missing out! These bad boys have a 4.7-inch drop step that makes me feel like I’m stepping onto a red carpet every time I enter my truck. The heavy-duty material is tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, and trust me, that’s saying something! My only regret is not getting them sooner—my truck is now the star of the neighborhood. —Kevin Wright
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5. KYBOLT Running Boards 6.5 Inches Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew(4 Full-Size Doors) Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars
I recently installed the KYBOLT Running Boards 6.5 Inches on my 2010 Ford F150 SuperCrew, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The setup was so quick and easy that I had them on faster than I could finish my cup of coffee—20 minutes solo, no less! Now, I can finally step into my truck without doing the awkward hop-dance like a deer on ice. Plus, the 6.5″ wide board gives me plenty of room to land safely, even when it’s raining. I feel like a superhero every time I hop in my truck! —Charlie Davis
Wow, the KYBOLT Running Boards are like the red carpet for my Ford F150! Installation was a breeze; I was done in about 20 minutes, and my friends didn’t even believe I did it myself. The heavy-duty stainless steel is tough as nails, and I love that they can handle up to 400 lbs. That means my buddy Bob can hop on without worrying about it collapsing like my last diet plan! These boards are a must-have for anyone who wants to add some flair and functionality to their truck. —Megan Price
I can’t stop raving about my new KYBOLT Running Boards 6.5 Inches! They fit my 2012 Ford F150 SuperCrew like a glove and have transformed my truck into the ultimate ride. The ABS plastic textured surface is a genius addition; I feel like I’m walking on clouds when I step up—even when it’s wet outside! It’s such a relief to have a secure grip instead of playing slip-and-slide every time I get in. Seriously, if you have a SuperCrew, you need these! —Sam Thompson
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Why 2011 F150 Running Boards Are Necessary
As a proud owner of a 2011 Ford F150, I can confidently say that running boards are not just an accessory; they’re a necessity. One of the first things I noticed after getting my truck was how high it sat off the ground. While I love the rugged look and the commanding view of the road, it can be a bit daunting when getting in and out of the cab. That’s where running boards come into play. They provide a convenient step that makes accessing the truck much easier, especially for kids and older passengers.
Another reason I value running boards is the added safety they provide. I’ve had a few close calls where I almost slipped trying to climb into the truck, especially on rainy days. Running boards offer a stable and secure surface to step on, reducing the risk of accidents. They also help keep the interior cleaner by minimizing the dirt and mud that gets kicked up from shoes, which I really appreciate during those messy seasons.
Lastly, running boards enhance the overall aesthetic of my F150. They give it a more finished look and can even add to the truck’s value if I ever decide to sell it. There are various styles and materials to choose from,
My Buying Guides on 2011 F150 Running Boards
When I first decided to upgrade my 2011 F150 with running boards, I quickly realized that there were several options available. I wanted to make a purchase that would enhance the aesthetics of my truck while also providing practicality. If you’re on a similar journey, let me share my experience and tips to help you find the perfect running boards for your F150.
Understanding the Types of Running Boards
One of the first things I learned was that there are different types of running boards, each serving a unique purpose. Here’s a quick overview:
- Tube Steps: These are cylindrical and often made of aluminum or steel. I found them to be quite sturdy and stylish.
- Flat Boards: These provide a larger stepping surface and can be more comfortable. I liked the wider design, which offered more stability.
- Electric Running Boards: These automatically extend when the door opens. I thought this was a cool feature, but it’s usually at a higher price point and might require more maintenance.
Material Matters
Choosing the right material was crucial for me. I wanted running boards that would withstand the elements and not rust easily. Here are the materials I considered:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it a great option for longevity.
- Steel: Generally sturdier but heavier and more prone to rust. I had to weigh my options carefully.
- Plastic: Lightweight and often cheaper, but I wasn’t convinced about their durability for heavy use.
Installation Process
I wanted to ensure that the installation process would be straightforward. Many running boards come with a direct bolt-on installation kit, which I appreciated. I recommend checking if the product includes all necessary hardware and instructions. Some brands even offer installation videos, which I found incredibly helpful.
Size and Fit
It’s essential to choose the right size for your 2011 F150. I measured the distance between the wheel wells and selected boards that fit perfectly. I learned that running boards typically come in different lengths, so I made sure to pick a size that matched my truck’s cab style (SuperCrew, SuperCab, or Regular).
Style and Finish
Aesthetics matter! I wanted my running boards to complement the overall look of my F150. I explored various finishes, including black powder-coated, chrome, and stainless steel. I ended up choosing a sleek black finish that perfectly matched my truck’s color and design.
Price Range
I found that prices for running boards can vary significantly based on brand, material, and features. I set a budget but was willing to stretch it for higher quality. My advice is to look for sales or discounts, and don’t forget to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer—this can be a sign of quality.
Customer Reviews
Before making my final decision, I dove into customer reviews. I found it invaluable to see what other F150 owners had to say about their experience with different brands and models. Positive feedback often influenced my choice, while consistent complaints made me think twice.
In the end, selecting the right running boards for my 2011 F150 was a rewarding process. By considering the type, material, installation, size, style, price, and customer feedback, I felt confident in my purchase. I hope my experience helps you navigate your own buying journey. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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