Hey there, Steve here from PNB Truck Accessories in Madison, Wisconsin. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your truck with something practical and good-looking, you’re in the right place. Today I want to talk about one of the most popular upgrades we see folks ask about: running boards and step bars.
These are more than just cosmetic add-ons. They bring real-world functionality to your truck, especially here in Wisconsin, where snow, mud, and rough terrain are part of daily life.
What Are Running Boards and Step Bars?
Let’s start with the basics.
Running boards are wide, flat steps that run along the bottom edge of your truck, usually below the doors. They’re typically designed to give you a full-foot step surface and are great for anyone who wants a stable and easy way to get in and out of their vehicle.
Step bars (also called nerf bars or side steps) are tubular steps that mount below your doors. They’re smaller than running boards but still give you a solid foothold, especially helpful for trucks that are lifted or sit higher than stock.
Who Needs Them?
Honestly? Pretty much anyone who drives a pickup truck can benefit. Here are a few examples:
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Got a lifted truck? You’ll appreciate the extra step.
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Drive with kids or older adults? Makes entry and exit way easier.
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Use your truck for work or hauling? You’ll want sturdy side access.
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Like your truck to look clean and custom? These add visual polish.
At PNB, we work with a lot of folks who use their trucks for both work and play, and running boards are a go-to upgrade. You’re investing in easier access, but you’re also protecting your truck’s sides from mud, gravel, and debris that can fly up from the road.
Types of Running Boards and Step Bars We Carry at PNB
We offer a solid variety of both step bars and running boards, including:
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Aluminum Running Boards: Lightweight, rust-resistant, great for Wisconsin winters.
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Steel Nerf Bars: Heavy-duty, built for tough work trucks.
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Retractable Running Boards: These tuck under the truck when not in use.
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Custom-Fit Side Steps: Designed to match your truck’s year, make, and model.
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Textured or Grip-Enhanced Surfaces: For safer stepping in rain or snow.
One thing we pride ourselves on at PNB is helping you find the right fit for your specific vehicle and your personal needs. Whether you’re driving a RAM 2500, a Ford F-150, a Chevy Silverado, or something more unique, we can match you up.
Installation Matters – We’ve Got You Covered
Here’s something people often forget: installation quality makes a difference.
If your step bar isn’t mounted securely or is misaligned, it can wear down faster, or worse, be unsafe. That’s why our team at PNB doesn’t just sell accessories—we install them professionally, right here at our shop in Madison.
You’ll drive away knowing everything is installed properly and built to last. And if you’re the type who likes to DIY? We’ll set you up with the hardware and instructions you need, and we’re always just a phone call away for help.
Why Buy Local?
Buying from a local shop like PNB Truck Accessories means:
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You get real support from real people (like me!).
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No guessing if a part will fit—we’ll make sure it does.
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You’ll see only quality brands we trust and use ourselves.
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We stand behind our work with local warranties and service.
You’re not just buying a product—you’re joining a community of truck owners who care about their ride.
Final Thoughts from Steve
Whether you’re hauling gear, picking up supplies, or just heading up to the cabin, step bars and running boards make life easier, safer, and better-looking. At PNB Truck Accessories, we’ve helped hundreds of truck owners across Madison and beyond upgrade their rigs, and we’d love to help you next.
Stop by the shop or give us a call. Let’s get your truck stepped up right.
— Steve
PNB Truck Accessories – Madison, Wisconsin
