Top 6 Best Nerf Bars On The Market In 2022 Review & Buying Guide

If you own a truck or SUV, then you might be considering adding a step. These are better known as nerf bars, and they make life considerably easier. Especially for certain drivers and passengers…

Do you ever have trouble getting in and out of your vehicle?

Maybe you’re vertically challenged, recovering from an injury, or starting to get to a serious level of years. Or, perhaps you would just like to make life more convenient. No matter the reasons, the best nerf bars will make your vehicle both look good and be more accessible.

This just leaves one question. Which is the best nerf bar for your vehicle? To help you find the right answer and save you time, we’ve compiled this review.

In addition to our comprehensive product reviews, we’ve even created a useful buying guide that will ensure you get the perfect nerf bars for your needs…

Top 6 Best Nerf Bars For Your Consideration In 2022 Reviews

1 Tyger Auto TG-RS2C40038 Black Riser 4″ Extended/Double Cab Side Step Nerf Bars – Best Budget Nerf Bars

If you drive a Chevy Silverado or a GMC Sierra, then look no further than Tyger Auto. They make a nerf bar side step that fits many years models, though not all. We’d recommend this for anyone who likes the all-black look.

Keep things styling with the model #TG-RS2C40038…

This particular side step for trucks will only fit extended and double cab models. This means the step for the back won’t line up if you have four full-sized doors. Instead, this option is for trucks with that narrow rear suicide-style door.

It will fit Silverado models for the years 2007-2018, but not the more recent models. There are also a few oddballs it won’t line up with, like the 2007 Classic. We recommend double-checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific truck make/model/year.

How big is it?

This step measures four inches wide and is composed of heavy-duty triangle mild steel tubing. These are then given a black powder coating to help combat rust issues.

There are four UV-resistant non-slip step pads, each of which is quite wide. This provides extra protection for your vehicle and keeps your footing secure.

Is it easy to install?

Well, not the easiest, but you can DIY it. We should note that some trucks with a plastic DEF tank cover may require some trimming. However, for the most part, the job is straightforward.

Tyger Auto includes DIY instructions as well as all the mounting hardware required for the job. They also provide a Five Year Warranty. It’s not hard to see why we think these are the right nerf bars for the Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra.

2 Westin Pro Traxx 4 Oval Nerf Step Bars – Best Mid Range Nerf Bars

Another great set of all-black nerf step bars are made by Westin. Their Pro Traxx Nerf Step Bars are ideal for Toyota drivers. We think they’re some of the best-looking nerf bars for sure.

But there’s more to the story…

If you’re running a Toyota 4Runner SR5 or TRD from the 2014-2020 years, this is the nerf bar set for you. They also fit the Trail Edition for the years 2010-2017. We like the oval tube shape design of these nerf bars. It’s a 4-inch diameter E-coated mild steel tube. As with the option reviewed above, these have been powder coated for better weather resistance.

It also features four high traction step pads constructed from molded polymer. This again helps with traction, and we find the pads functional and good-looking.

What about installation?

These nerf bars are super easy to install. They simply bolt-on, with no drilling of any kind required. All installation hardware and DIY instructions are included. While we didn’t see this issue ourselves, we have heard complaints about some mounting brackets. It seems the quality control isn’t running full steam, and some units may not line up perfectly.

It’s what the warranty is for, so we wouldn’t worry about it. Overall, we found these nerf bars to be high-quality and well worth the price.

But wait, there’s more…

Probably the best thing about these nerf bars is the 30° OE style bends. These are fully welded and feature domed end caps. This all comes together to provide a clean finish that looks factory installed.

3 Lund 23884295 Oval Curved Steel Nerf Bar 5 Inch – Best Value for the Money Nerf Bars

Keeping with the all-black thing, for now, our next option is from Lund. This is specifically made for Toyota Tacoma owners, and we think it’s one of the best value nerf bars for the money you can buy.

If you’re not into all black, don’t worry, we have other options below…

But first, let’s look at model #23884295 from Lund. These nerf bars are a wider five-inch diameter oval, but otherwise similar looking to the above. This makes them some of the best nerf bars for trucks and SUVs.

The steps provide an extra-wide stepping platform. This means you’ll have greater traction and stability. We also like the curved end design. This makes it look like the bars disappear under the truck, which provides a clean overall look. We also appreciate the heavy-duty construction that can support up to 350 pounds.

But that’s not all…

In addition to the black powder-coated steel being resistant to corrosion, these bars are easy to install. They come fully assembled, so you just need to bolt them into place.

There’s no drilling required for installation, and all hardware is included. This means these nerf bars are easy to install, durable, and easy to maintain. They also fit a wide range of vehicles.

However…

This particular option is designed for the 2005-2020 Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab Pickup. They make brackets for other trucks, and there is even a stainless steel option if you’re not into black.

4 N-FAB D0984CC-TX Textured Black Nerf Step – Best Premium Nerf Bars

N-FAB has a nerf step that has been specifically designed for Dodge Ram owners. Model #D0984CC-TX is a trendsetting nerf step that we think most people will want. It looks a bit different from some options above, but only in ways we like.

Nothing says rugged like N-FAB…

This unit is built with a 3-inch main tube that has been fitted with two steps on either side. This allows for easy access for everyone getting in or out of the vehicle.

For durability, each bar features 100% welded seams. This means the unit comes as a single piece ready to be installed. Not only does this make things nice and quick, but it also makes for a highly rigid, strong, and durable nerf bar.

What makes them so durable?

These nerf bars undergo a four-stage powder coating process. This generates a longer lasting finish, meaning it can better handle extreme environments.

In fact, N-FAB provides a Five Year Finish Warranty. This means you can buy with confidence that weather conditions won’t ruin the look.

What vehicles does it fit, you ask?

These nerf bars are designed to work with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram Crew Cabs. We like the metal dimpled step plate, which provides top-notch traction.

However, considering the high price point, we aren’t overly thrilled about the quality control. While we didn’t see any issues on our end, other users have reported finish and mis-drill issues with the brackets.

5 MaxMate Stainless Steel 3″ Side Step Rails Nerf Bars Running Boards – Top Rated Nerf Bars

Another option for Silverado and Sierra drivers is brought to you by MaxMate. They make a stainless steel nerf bar set. We think it’s a great alternative to the all-black options reviewed above.

But will it fit your vehicle?

Yes, if you drive a 2001-2018 Silverado or a 2001-2018 Sierra 1500. It also fits the 2001-2019 Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab models.

As with the first option on our list, this side step will only fit extended and double cab models. This means the step for the back won’t line up if you have four full-sized doors. Instead, this option is for trucks with that narrow rear suicide-style door.

How big is it?

This step measures three inches wide and is composed of heavy-duty stainless steel tubing. We like this shy alternative to the black powder-coated options reviewed above.

There are four UV-resistant non-slip step pads, each of which is quite wide. This provides extra protection for your vehicle and keeps your footing secure.

Is it easy to install?

Yes, this setup is meant to be an easy DIY project. There is no drilling required, and it all takes less time than you’d expect. We think this makes these the best stainless steel nerf bars for the price.

6 Westin 21-53720 Pro Traxx 5″ Oval Step Bar – Best Westin Nerf Bars

The final option on our list of the top nerf bars is produced by Westin. Their model #21-53720 is another Pro Traxx option. This one, however, differs from the other Pro Traxx nerf bars reviewed above.

Do you need a bigger tube?

Unlike the Pro Traxx option reviewed above, this model features a stainless steel finish. This finish is backed by a lifetime warranty, which is a rarity we all can appreciate.

It also features four bold saddle step pads constructed from molded polymer. This again helps with traction, and we find the pads functional and good-looking.

What about installation?

These nerf bars are super easy to install. They simply bolt-on, with no drilling of any kind required. All installation hardware and DIY instructions are included. While we didn’t see this issue ourselves, we have heard complaints about some mounting brackets. It seems the quality control isn’t running full steam, and some units may not line up perfectly.

It’s what the warranty is for, so we wouldn’t worry about it. Overall, we found these nerf bars to be high-quality and well worth the price.

But wait, there’s more…

Probably the best thing about these nerf bars is the 30° OE style bends. These are fully welded and feature domed end caps. This all comes together to provide a clean finish that looks factory installed.

Best Nerf Bars Buying Guide

As you can see from our review, there are a number of great options in the running. Which is best for you depends on a few specifics. So, without any further ado, let’s discuss the main things to consider…

Nerf Bar Styles

When attempting to break down nerf bars into groups, there are a few complications. Some styles are hybrids of others, and so our list below isn’t all-encompassing.

The most common style of nerf bar is the oval tube. These are similar to the round tubes, except that they provide a larger stepping area. Whether you choose a round or oval tube, you’ll also need to consider the length of your nerf bars.

Cab Length vs. Wheel-to-Wheel Nerf Bars

The most common type of nerf bars are cab length nerf bars. These run the full length of the cab and will often offer front and rear stepping pads. These pads will be placed depending on the model of your vehicle.

For this reason, we’ll say it again. Always confirm with the manufacturer the make and model of your vehicle. It’s the best way to ensure you get a nerf bar with stepping pads placed correctly for your vehicle.

Sometimes access is everything…

For those times, we would recommend wheel-to-wheel nerf bars. These run the full length of the truck and can be used to access gear in the bed. We also think that these look better than cab length options. However, that is entirely down to personal opinion.

Step Style Nerf Bars

The final style of nerf bars to consider is the step style. Rather than a single tube running the length, there are individual steps that stick out underneath each door.

These types of nerf bars provide a completely different look for the vehicle. They are especially beneficial on lifted vehicles, as it makes access considerably easier.

Consider the finish…

Another consideration to keep in mind is the finish of our nerf bars. Most options come in either stainless steel or powder-coated black. Both of these options provide excellent corrosion resistance. Thus, both tend to be highly durable. This leaves the choice down to the desired look.

So, do you prefer a bit of shiny bling, or to run dark?

No matter which style you choose, there are two things you’ll want to ensure. Make sure you’re happy with the overall look once the bars are mounted. Also, we advise that you ensure the nerf bars step pad provides a secure footing.

There’s no point going to the trouble and expense of adding a step if it isn’t going to make life easier. Some steps are surprisingly slippery, especially in the wet. It’s the main reason to choose non-slip nerf bars.

For all of your truck and SUV needs…

Check out our reviews of the Best Truck Bed Bike Racks, the Best Truck Bed Liners, the Best Dash Cover, the Best Trunk Mount Bike Rack, and the Best F150 Bed Covers you can buy.

Or how about our reviews of the Best Jumper Cables, the Best Dog Car Seat Covers, and the Best Mud Tires currently on the market in 2022.

So, what are the Best Nerf Bars?

With all of the information we’ve covered, you should now be ready to make a purchase. There are a number of options, and we tried to present something for every style.

If nothing jumped out at you, we’d recommend the…

N-FAB D0984CC-TX Textured Black Nerf Step

Not only does it look good, but it also provides great traction for entering and exiting the vehicle.

But make sure you order the exact one to fit your vehicle…

Happy driving!