Nerf Bars vs Running Boards

I just bought a 2016 Tacoma TRD Sport. Love the truck. I am vertically challenged however (5'5") and feel pretty silly having to hop up to get into my truck.

So, Nerf bars or running boards? And why or why not? I like the Nerf Bars, black with curved ends. However I would like to make an "informed" decision and would appreciate some feedback. Also, I was thinking 4", so I can step up and in, and hopefully provide sone protection from idiots that park too close and open their doors. Hate to have to hurt someone over my first door ding!

Thanks

Forgot to add, it is the Access cab.

 

The Toyota predator step tubes would be my choice if you need steps.

 

I personally am not a fan of either. Sorry not much help, but thought I would give an honest answer. If you will be doing any kind of off roading they will be a limitation in that arena. I know you have the sport model, but still. However, If I had to choose I would say running boards. They offer much more real estate to use, plus they look better imo.

 

http://www.n-fab.com/products/sfID1/60/sfID2/106/sfID3/107/productID/1015

These would be the best at offering a step in my opinion. I can't say I have any personal experience with it though.

 

nfabs for the win! mine are 3" and I find them to be pretty usable for a boost in, best way is turn your butt to the door!

I think they look great too... get lotsa compliments...

 

Got these from trad shop.com

 

Personally a fan of the Predator N-Fab steps. Got the 3" wheel to wheel setup. Will switch however to sliders once I can build up the truck to take on the trails for some wheeling.

 

I'm confused now.

I thought predator steps and N-Fab steps were 2 different brands. Predator is what you order thru the dealership, N-Fab is aftermarket...

Or do I have that totally mixed up?

 

Sorry meant more of the style. Mine are the Nfab steps, which here are refered to as predator step. They look pretty identical. I got a Nfab logo on the step plates, probably the big difference

 

Ah ok ok. For a second there I thought I was losing it.

I want to get some nerf bars but I'm burning through budget for my new truck at an alarming pace.

 

What brand of side bars? Do they sit high and tight. I prefer high and tight.

 

They are from Toyota, part # PT767-35120, 5" oval. You can get the same thing in black. In my opinion they do sit high, and work great. I don't use my side, but wife uses her side and likes them. I ordered from Amazon, but you can also get from trdshop.com or trdparts4u.com and of course your trusty Toyota dealer. I paid $419.79. And of course this part number applies to the chrome for the access cab.

 

Tks for the great info and I like the bling (chrome)

 

While I like the bar to sit high and tight myself, having the step high doesn't work as well for getting in and out of the truck, it's damn near as high as not having it... which is why the Predator/Nfab style has the loops for the step. The main bar is up pretty tight to the body while the step is lower in a more usable spot, enough so I can get in my truck (front lifted to level the truck) with my hands full. Just my opinion...