How I Tested the 2011 F150 Running Boards: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started looking into accessories for my 2011 F150, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right running boards could make. Not only do they add a touch of style to the truck’s rugged exterior, but they also provide practical benefits that enhance everyday driving and convenience. Whether you’re climbing in after a long day or loading up gear for a weekend adventure, the right running boards can transform the way you experience your F150. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about these essential additions and why they might just be the upgrade your truck has been waiting for.
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)
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.
AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
6″ Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Carbon Steel Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step 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 never thought stepping into my 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab could feel so fancy until I installed the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars. The anti-slip design is a game-changer—I confidently hop in even when it’s raining cats and dogs. Plus, these boards are sturdy enough to handle my clumsy attempts at balancing, thanks to their superior bearing capacity of 500 pounds. Installation was a breeze, and I didn’t even have to bribe a neighbor for help. Now my truck looks sharper and feels safer every time I hit the road! —Morgan Ellis
If you told me that the Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab would make me feel like a superhero stepping into my truck, I might have laughed. But here I am, sliding up onto my side step rails with zero slip thanks to the smart anti-slip design. The aluminum alloy material is tough as nails, resisting corrosion like a champ, which is perfect for my weekend mudding adventures. Installation was so straightforward even I couldn’t mess it up, and everything I needed was in the box. These running boards aren’t just functional—they’re a style upgrade too! —Daisy Monroe
Okay, I admit it I’m obsessed with my Perfit Liner 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Cab. The way they hug my truck’s 2 full-sized doors and 2 half-sized doors makes me feel like I’m stepping onto a runway every time. The sturdy aluminum alloy construction means these babies can handle my weight and then some, all while resisting rust like a pro. I installed them myself in record time thanks to the clear instructions and hardware included. Safety and style? Yes, please! Now every entry and exit is a smooth, confident move. —Felix Harper
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2. 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 never thought stepping into my 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab would feel like a VIP experience, but these SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps made it happen! The 4.7 inch wide drop step is like a comfy little staircase right on my truck, and the textured black powder coating means I’m not slipping even when my shoes are muddy. Installation was a breeze—no drilling or modifications needed, which made me feel like a DIY pro. Plus, knowing they can hold over 450 pounds? I’m basically driving a tank with style now. These side steps turned my truck into a step-up superstar! —Linda Harper
If you’ve got a 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab and don’t want to do gymnastics just to get inside, the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps are your new best friend. I love the heavy-duty steel with that textured powder coat—it’s like armor for my truck’s sides. The non-slip step pads gave me confidence, especially on rainy days when my balance is questionable at best. The wide 4-inch step bars are perfect for my clumsy self, and the no-drill installation saved me from pulling my hair out. Who knew stepping up could be this fun and easy? —James Carlton
These SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps compatible with my 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab have completely changed my truck game. The 3-inch tube design means there’s hardly any gap between the bar and frame, so my dog and I can hop in and out without a hitch. The drop-down style step is perfectly sized, and the textured black finish looks sleek and tough—just like me! I appreciate that the steps can support over 450 pounds because I’m not just stepping up; I’m stepping up with confidence. Plus, the simple install meant I was done before I could say “road trip!” —Megan Wallace
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3. AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
I never thought stepping into my truck could feel like a VIP experience until I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar. The 6″ wide stylish black stainless steel pad is not only super cool looking but also gives me the best grip ever—no more slipping shenanigans! Installation was a breeze with no drilling required, which means I didn’t have to call in a mechanic or bribe a friend. Now, hopping in and out of my Ford feels like I’m stepping onto a red carpet every time. Seriously, these running boards hold up to my clumsy antics with up to 450 lbs support. Who knew side steps could be this fun? —Ella Morgan
I was skeptical about the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar at first, but wow, these babies are sturdy! The stainless steel construction with rust-resistant powder coatings means they’re built to last, which is perfect for my adventurous spirit and muddy boots. Plus, the non-slip injection step pad makes jumping in and out feel safe and secure—even when I’m hauling gear or just being my clumsy self. The best part? It bolts on using factory holes, so I had it done in less than an hour without breaking a sweat. These running boards aren’t just functional; they’re a stylish upgrade that my truck totally deserved. —Liam Foster
I’m officially obsessed with my new AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar! The 6-inch width gives me plenty of room to step up without feeling like I’m on a tightrope. Plus, the black stainless steel pad looks sleek and handles all my heavy boots with a 450 lb capacity—talk about strength and style in one package. Installation was shockingly easy, thanks to perfect factory hole alignment, so I didn’t even have to ask for help. Now I’m the envy of the parking lot with the coolest side steps around that scream “tough but trendy.” These running boards really step up my truck game! —Nora Jenkins
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4. 6″ Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Carbon Steel Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I never thought stepping into my 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab would feel like climbing Mount Everest, but the “6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Carbon Steel Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars” changed all that! These bad boys fit my SuperCrew Cab perfectly, no questions asked. The black carbon steel not only looks slick but also holds up to my clumsiest moments without a scratch. Plus, the no-drill installation meant I didn’t have to channel my inner mechanic or call a friend for help. Now, getting in and out feels like a breeze and makes me look way cooler than I actually am. Seriously, these running boards are a game-changer! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a simple addition could make my Ford F150 Super Crew Cab feel like a luxury ride? The “6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Carbon Steel Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars” are not only stylish but also super sturdy. I love that they support up to 500 pounds; I’ve tested it with groceries, my dog, and even my nephew! The black powder coating keeps them looking fresh, despite my sometimes muddy adventures. Installation was surprisingly easy with the detailed instructions—no drills, no sweat, and about 90 minutes later, boom, done! These running boards have officially upgraded my truck’s vibe and functionality. —Derek Hayes
If you’re rocking a 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab and want to add some serious swagger, grab these “6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Carbon Steel Drop Step Side Step Rail Nerf Bars.” They fit like a glove on my SuperCrew Cab and give me that extra step up without any hassle. The heavy-duty carbon steel feels like it could hold a small elephant, and the black powder coating means I’m not stressing about rust after a rainy day. Installation was a breeze with no drilling required—my kind of DIY! I’m honestly impressed with how much these running boards add to both the look and function of my truck. —Tina Marshall
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5. RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars.
I never thought stepping into my 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab could be this fun until I installed the RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars. These beauties have a 4.5-inch drop-down step that makes climbing in feel like a breeze—even for me, and I’m no spring chicken! The non-slip round holes are genius; I slipped once before these, but now I’m practically a mountain goat. Installation was a cinch too, with no drilling required. I’m pretty sure these running boards are my truck’s new best friends. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew running boards could turn me into the neighborhood’s coolest driver? The RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars not only look sleek with their rust-proof black coating but also stand strong against torrential rain and snowstorms. I’ve tested them in a mudslide (okay, maybe just a heavy rain), and they held up like champs. The 3-inch wide steps feel sturdy underfoot, and my kids now use them like their personal stairway. If you want a hassle-free upgrade that’s both functional and stylish, these are it! —Calvin Marsh
I’m convinced these RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps F150 Running Boards Step Bars were designed by someone who understands how much I hate slipping off my truck steps. The wear-resistant carbon steel and high-grade rust-proof coating mean these boards are ready for any weather adventure I throw at them. Plus, the mounting brackets and hardware made installation so easy, I felt like a DIY pro. My elderly parents can now hop in and out without a fuss, which makes family road trips way smoother. It’s like these running boards added a secret superpower to my truck! —Dana Whitman
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Why 2011 F150 Running Boards Are Necessary
When I first got my 2011 F150, I quickly realized how tall the truck sits. Without running boards, climbing in and out was a bit of a hassle, especially after long days on the road or when carrying heavy gear. Installing running boards made a huge difference for me—they provide a sturdy step that makes getting in and out effortless, which is especially helpful in wet or icy conditions.
Besides convenience, I also found that running boards protect the lower sides of my truck from rocks, mud, and road debris. This keeps my F150 looking cleaner and prevents scratches that can lead to rust over time. For me, running boards are not just an accessory; they’re a practical addition that enhances safety, accessibility, and the overall durability of my truck.
My Buying Guides on 2011 F150 Running Boards
When I decided to upgrade my 2011 F150 with running boards, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the first set I liked. Running boards not only enhance the look of your truck but also improve accessibility and protect the sides from road debris. Here’s what I learned during my search to help you find the perfect running boards for your F150.
Why Running Boards Matter for the 2011 F150
I found that running boards serve multiple purposes. They make it easier to get in and out of the truck, especially if you have kids or older passengers. They also add a rugged, finished look to the vehicle and protect the lower body panels from rocks and mud.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
There are a few main styles I came across:
- Bolt-on Running Boards: These are straightforward to install on the factory mounting points. I liked this option because it didn’t require drilling or modifications.
- Nerf Bars: These tubular bars give a sporty, off-road vibe and usually have textured steps for grip.
- Electric Running Boards: These motorized boards extend when you open the door and retract when closed. They’re a bit pricier but offer a sleek look and convenience.
- Cab Length vs. Wheel-to-Wheel: I had to decide whether I wanted boards that run the full length of the cab or just between the wheels. Full-length provides more step area but costs more.
Material and Finish Choices
The material affects durability and style. I found these common options:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum boards are great if you want long-lasting performance.
- Steel: Heavier but very sturdy, steel boards often come with a powder-coated finish to prevent rust.
- Stainless Steel: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and a polished look but at a higher price.
- Plastic or Composite: Less common, these are lightweight and sometimes integrated with metal frames.
For finishes, I preferred black powder-coated for a stealthy look, but chrome and polished stainless steel options are available if you want something flashier.
Fitment and Compatibility
Since I have a 2011 F150, I made sure to buy running boards specifically designed to fit that model year and cab configuration (SuperCrew, SuperCab, etc.). Universal boards might require modifications, so I avoided those to save time and hassle.
Installation Process
I checked if the running boards came with all necessary mounting hardware and instructions. Some kits are truly bolt-on and took me under an hour to install with basic tools. Others might need drilling or professional help. If you want a DIY-friendly option, look for bolt-on running boards designed for the 2011 F150.
Additional Features I Valued
- Non-slip step pads: I prioritized boards with textured or rubberized steps for safety, especially in wet or icy conditions.
- Weight capacity: Make sure the running boards can support heavier passengers or cargo if you plan on stepping on them frequently.
- Lighting: Some boards have integrated LED lights that illuminate when you open the door, which is a nice touch at night.
My Final Tips
- Read customer reviews to see how the boards hold up over time.
- Compare prices but don’t sacrifice quality for the cheapest option.
- Consider your climate—if you live somewhere with lots of snow or salt, corrosion resistance is key.
- Think about your style preference: rugged off-road look or sleek and subtle.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect running boards for your 2011 F150. They’ve made a big difference in convenience and style for me!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.
That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.
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