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If you use your Subaru Crosstrek for daily driving, hauling gear, or outdoor trips, the right side step can make getting in and out easier and help protect the lower body from road debris. This guide shortlists the top side steps selected for fit and function specifically for the Subaru Crosstrek, so you can choose based on how you use the vehicle. We evaluated options across build quality, mounting method, and step height to highlight choices that balance convenience, durability, and appearance. Read on to see the top picks and what to consider when choosing a side step for your Crosstrek.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Tyger Auto Riser 6" Running Boards for Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon Crew Cab |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | OEDRO Two-Stair Running Boards for Toyota Tundra CrewMax Cab |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | KYX 6" Running Boards Side Steps for Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon Crew Cab |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | YZONA Three-Raised-Step Running Boards for Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards for 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL 4‑Door |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | SOENBOO Two-Stair Running Boards for Crew Cab Trucks |  |
1. Tyger Auto Riser 6" Running Boards for Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon Crew Cab
| Vehicle fit | 2015–2026 Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon Crew Cab |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Finish | Powder E-Coating |
| Weight limit | 500 Pounds |
These Tyger Auto Riser 6" running boards are heavy-duty side steps that mount to the rocker panel with supplied brackets and hardware. They are intended for crew cab Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon models from 2015 to 2026 and are installed with a bolt-on procedure that most owners can complete with basic hand tools. The boards use triangle aluminum tubing with a satin black powder-coating and wide UV-resistant non-slip pads to make stepping in and out safer and to resist surface wear. Included brackets and body clips let you position and tighten the bars to suit body clearance, and the kit lists a 500 lb weight capacity and roughly 13 inches of ground clearance. Limitations to consider are that the finish can show corrosion over long exposure in some climates and that some plastic body clips used in the kit are prone to stripping if over-tightened, so careful installation and periodic inspection are recommended.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a durable, factory-style side step that bolts on and can be maintained over time for steady everyday use.
Less Ideal for: Buyers looking for side steps specifically for the Subaru Crosstrek should not choose this product because it is made and fitted for Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cab trucks only.
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2015–2026 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Crew Cab models
- Heavy-duty triangle aluminum construction with powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance
- Wide UV-resistant non-slip pads for safer stepping in wet or muddy conditions
- Includes mounting brackets, hardware and body clips for bolt-on installation
- Some reviewers report the coating can start to corrode in harsh winter conditions
- Plastic body clips and screws can strip if over-tightened during installation
Verdict A sturdy, factory-style 6" riser step built for Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon crew cabs that favors durability and easy bolt-on installation but needs careful installation and upkeep in salty or severe climates.
2. OEDRO Two-Stair Running Boards for Toyota Tundra CrewMax Cab
| Vehicle Service Type | 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Crew Max Cab |
|---|---|
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish | Black Powder Coated |
| Weight Limit | 550 Pounds |
| Installation | Bolt-on using factory holes |
These OEDRO two-stair running boards provide a durable, bolt-on side step solution for the 2007–2021 Toyota Tundra CrewMax cab. They use a triple steel tube design with a rugged powder-coat finish and laser-cut step pads, and the drop-step layout gives a lower, second tread that makes rooftop access and stepping up easier on lifted trucks or those with large tires. Installation is straightforward using factory holes and the included brackets and hardware, so a competent DIYer can complete the swap without drilling. In use the hollow step pads shed water and grit, and the triangular bracket geometry aims to keep the boards stable under load. Expect solid protection for the rocker panels and a stated 550 lb load capacity. Limitations to note are a few reports of alignment issues during installation that require verifying left/right board placement, and some users in harsh salted-winter climates reported early surface corrosion despite the coating, so long-term rust resistance may vary by environment.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize rugged, functional upgrades that improve access and protection on a truck used for off-road or heavy-duty tasks.
Less Ideal for: Not a good fit for buyers seeking parts for vehicles other than the specified 2007–2021 Toyota Tundra CrewMax cab or for owners in extremely corrosive climates who want stainless or aluminum components without extra protective measures.
- Two-stair drop-step design eases rooftop access and entry on lifted trucks.
- Triple steel-tube construction with powder-coat finish for ruggedness and body protection.
- Bolt-on installation using factory holes with included vehicle-specific brackets and hardware.
- Laser-cut non-slip step pads and hollow design that help shed water and debris.
- Rated to support up to 550 pounds, suitable for passenger use and roof loading assistance.
- Some installers reported bracket-to-board alignment problems that require care to match left/right boards.
- Powder coating reduced corrosion risk but a few owners in salted-winter areas reported rust developing over time.
Verdict Sturdy, performance-focused two-step running boards that improve access and rocker protection on Tundra CrewMax trucks but require careful installation and may need extra rust protection in harsh winters.
3. KYX 6" Running Boards Side Steps for Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon Crew Cab
| Vehicle Service Type | Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon Crew Cab 2015-2025 |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Weight Limit | 500 Pounds |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
These KYX running boards are a budget-focused steel side step intended to bolt directly to vehicle-specific mounting points. They provide a wide, drop-step walking surface with anti-slip pads and a powder-coated finish to resist corrosion, and the kit includes the mounting hardware so you can install them without drilling. In practice they dress up the rocker area, make entries and exits easier on lifted trucks, and add a 500 lb rated step capacity for carrying people or light loads. Installation is straightforward for a DIYer with basic tools, though the instructions and part labeling have mixed feedback from users and some kits have arrived with missing or mislabeled hardware. Build quality appears consistent with an economical steel product: many buyers find them sturdy and good value, while a minority report thinner material, rivet issues, or packaging problems that required rework. If you accept occasional fitment fiddling and basic aftercare, these deliver a low-cost upgrade to side protection and accessibility.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize low-cost visual and functional upgrades and are comfortable doing basic vehicle installs and minor fitment adjustments themselves.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a guaranteed perfect fit for a different vehicle or who need premium-grade materials and factory-level finish should consider higher-end alternatives.
- Vehicle-specific bolt-on fitment for Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon crew cab models
- Wide 6-inch drop step with textured pads for safer entry and exit
- Powder-coated steel construction offers corrosion resistance at a low price
- Includes mounting hardware so no drilling is required
- Fitment and instructions are sometimes unclear and some kits arrived with missing or mislabeled parts
- Some buyers reported thinner steel and rivet fasteners that required reinforcement or rework
Verdict A low-cost, wide drop-step side bar that improves access and appearance for the right truck but may require patience with fitment and hardware quality.
4. YZONA Three-Raised-Step Running Boards for Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab
| Material | Carbon Steel |
|---|---|
| Exterior Finish | Powder Coated |
| Weight Limit | 550 Pounds |
| Vehicle Service Type | Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab |
These YZONA running boards are a heavy-duty, bolt-on side step designed to give easier roof and cab access with three raised step locations and a dual-layer layout for extra clearance. They are typically used on crew cab trucks where additional step points help users reach the roof or load cargo. Notable features include 2mm carbon steel construction, a black powder coat for corrosion resistance, laser-cut non-slip step surfaces, and included brackets and hardware for a no-drill installation. In real-world use they provide sturdy, wide stepping surfaces and straightforward fitment when matched to the correct vehicle; many users report quick installs and secure mounting. The main limitations are that the product is vehicle-specific to Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon crew cabs so it will not directly fit other models, and some owners have reported coating wear and rust after extended use, which suggests regular inspection and touch-up may be needed in harsh climates. Overall these boards are a practical, rugged option when used on the intended truck platform.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer who prioritizes a robust, factory-style bolt-on accessory and straightforward installation for a crew cab pickup that needs easier roof access.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need universal fitment or who own a different make or model should look for options designed for their vehicle, and those wanting a lifetime-finish guarantee should consider higher-end corrosion-resistant alternatives.
- Three raised step positions and wide tread provide easier access to roof and cab
- 2mm carbon steel construction rated to 550 pounds per side for strong load support
- Powder-coated finish and laser-cut non-slip surface improve corrosion resistance and traction
- Bolt-on installation with included brackets and hardware requires no drilling
- Coating and finish have shown peeling and rust in some long-term user reports
- Designed specifically for Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon crew cabs so not compatible with other vehicles
Verdict Solid, bolt-on running boards that deliver extra stepping positions and sturdy support on the intended Chevy/GMC crew cabs but are vehicle-specific and may need occasional finish maintenance.
5. SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards for 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL 4‑Door
| Fitment | 2018-2026 Wrangler JL 4 Door (not for Wrangler JK) |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Finish | Dual-stage textured black powder coat |
| Load limit | 450 Pounds |
| Includes | Left and right running boards, brackets, hardware, instructions |
These SMANOW drop-down running boards are a pair of vehicle-specific side steps designed to lower the entry point and give a wider, textured platform for footing. They mount using supplied brackets and hardware without drilling and are typically installed on the vehicle frame to provide a stable stepping surface for daily use, family passengers, and older riders. Built from powder-coated alloy steel with anti-slip tread, the boards promise a firm feel underfoot and a stated 450 pound load capacity, and many buyers report straightforward installation if you follow the instructions and leave bolts loose until aligned. The finish and welds look solid initially, but some owners in salted or wet climates have reported surface rust or coating failure after extended exposure, so plan for periodic inspection and touch-up if you want longer-term corrosion resistance. Hardware bags include extra fasteners that may not be used and instructions vary in clarity across batches.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a lower-cost, bolt-on running board that improves everyday access and appearance without major modification to the vehicle.
Less Ideal for: People seeking premium stainless or fully corrosion-resistant steps for salty or coastal climates, or buyers who want manufacturer-grade long-term finish warranties.
- Vehicle-specific mounting hardware for a bolt-on installation with no drilling required
- Wide drop-step profile and textured tread for easier, safer entry and exit
- Heavy steel construction and robust welds deliver a rigid, supportive feel under load
- Includes full mounting brackets and hardware so you receive left and right boards ready to fit
- Powder-coat has shown corrosion and flaking for some users in harsh climates
- Instructions and bolt labeling are inconsistent between shipments which can slow installation
Verdict A budget-friendly, bolt-on pair of drop steps that make getting in and out easier but may need extra corrosion protection in harsh environments.
6. SOENBOO Two-Stair Running Boards for Crew Cab Trucks
| Material | Carbon Steel |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Service Type | Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab |
| Weight Limit | 550 Pounds |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Exterior Finish | Black Powder Coated |
These two-stair running boards mount to factory attachment points and provide a lower intermediate step plus a top step to make entering taller crew cab trucks easier and to reach the roof. Constructed from 2 mm carbon steel with a black powder coat, they are built for year-round use and resist corrosion better than bare steel. The dual-layer layout and 6-inch drop-down pads are useful for vehicles with lift kits or oversized tires because the lower pad gives an easier foothold while the top rail preserves ground clearance. Installation is bolt-on and uses supplied brackets and hardware; real-world installs report the fit aligns well but can require leaving fasteners loose until all points are seated. Each side is rated to support heavy loads and the textured step surfaces improve traction in wet conditions. Expect a heavier-than-aluminum product and possible small missing plastic retainers in rare packages, and remember these are designed for vehicle-specific fitment so compatibility must be confirmed before buying.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a durable, practical running board that improves daily accessibility and roof access without complicated installation or frequent maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize minimal added weight or a lightweight aluminum aesthetic, or those looking for a universal fit that spans multiple different vehicle body styles.
- Dual-step layout provides a lower intermediate step for easier ingress and a higher top rail to keep ground clearance.
- 2 mm carbon steel construction with black powder coat for strong load support and improved corrosion resistance.
- Textured, laser-cut step surface increases traction in wet or muddy conditions.
- Bolt-on installation uses vehicle-specific brackets and hardware so no drilling is required.
- Heavier than aluminum alternatives which may add noticeable weight to the vehicle rocker area.
- Some packages have missing small plastic retainer pieces used during installation, requiring improvised fixes.
- Designed specifically for crew cab pickup trucks so fitment is limited to compatible vehicles only.
Verdict Sturdy, vehicle-specific two-step running boards that make climbing into taller crew cab trucks easier while offering strong corrosion resistance, at the cost of extra weight.
Choosing the Right Subaru Crosstrek Side Step: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Vehicle-Specific Mounting
Proper fitment determines whether the side step aligns with the Subaru Crosstrek’s factory mounting points and body contours. A vehicle-specific design reduces the need for drilling or aftermarket brackets and lowers the risk of interfering with doors or trim. Confirming the mounting locations and hardware types ensures the bar sits at the correct height and distance from the rocker, so stepping is comfortable and safe.
Poor fitment can cause stress on attachment points, vibration, or panel contact. Choosing a product that specifies Crosstrek compatibility or provides a detailed mounting kit helps prevent installation issues and preserves the vehicle’s finish.
Material and Corrosion Resistance
The material of the side step affects long-term durability, weight, and resistance to rust. Steel options are often strong and cost-effective but require quality coatings or powdercoat finishes to resist corrosion in wet climates. Aluminium choices offer better inherent corrosion resistance and lighter weight, though they may show dents differently and sometimes cost more.
Look for protective finishes, sealed welds, and corrosion-resistant fasteners. These details matter if you drive on salted roads or in coastal areas where exposure to moisture and salt accelerates wear.
Step Surface and Traction
Step surface design impacts safety whenever you enter or exit the vehicle. Wide, non-slip pads or serrated step plates provide grip in wet or muddy conditions and reduce the risk of slipping. Consider step depth and placement so your foot sits fully on the tread rather than the edge.
Well-designed traction surfaces also shed mud and snow more easily, reducing buildup that can make the surface slick. For frequent outdoor use, prioritize step designs intended for traction in adverse conditions.
Step Height and Ergonomics
Step height determines how comfortably you can access the cabin. A lower step height makes entry easier for shorter passengers and children, while a higher bar can offer more ground clearance but may be harder to use. The position relative to the door sill should allow a natural step without overreaching or stubbing toes.
Ergonomics also include the width and length of the step pads. Longer pads give you flexibility for foot placement, and wider surfaces improve stability—both relevant if you frequently carry equipment or help others into the vehicle.
Load Capacity and Durability
Load capacity indicates how much weight the side step can support repeatedly without bending or loosening. A higher rated capacity provides peace of mind when multiple people step on the bar or when you use it to load gear onto roof racks. Durability is tied to both construction quality and how the step distributes load to mounting points.
Inspect claims about weight tolerance and look for robust brackets, thicker tubing, and reinforced welds. These features help the step maintain alignment and function over time, especially with frequent use.
Installation Hardware and Accessibility
A complete mounting kit with clear instructions reduces install time and the need for special tools. Vehicle-specific brackets, labeled fasteners, and pre-drilled holes can make installation straightforward and reversible. Consider whether the kit requires removing factory components or offers bolt-on attachment to existing holes.
Accessibility also covers whether the step allows routine cleaning and maintenance without disassembly. Hardware that resists seizing and is serviceable will extend the useful life of the installation.
FAQ
Will adding a side step affect ground clearance?
Yes, side steps add some amount of width and potentially lower mounting points, which can slightly reduce effective ground clearance depending on design. Low-profile steps minimize this effect, while tube-style or bulky running boards sit farther from the body and may sit lower. Choose a design that balances clearance needs with the ease of ingress you want.
Do side steps require drilling into the vehicle?
Some side steps use vehicle-specific factory mounting points and do not require drilling, while others may need brackets or holes depending on the design. Look for options that reference factory attachment locations or include a complete mounting kit to avoid permanent modifications. Follow installation instructions closely to protect the vehicle’s structure.
How do I maintain the finish on my side steps?
Regular cleaning with mild soap and water removes road grime and salt that accelerate corrosion. For coated finishes, avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch the surface. Periodic inspection of fasteners and welds helps catch issues early, and touch-up paint or protective sprays can address small chips before rust develops.
Can side steps support roof-rack loading or heavy gear?
Side steps are primarily designed for stepping and occasional loading assistance, not as primary roof-rack supports. If you plan to use them to help load heavy gear, verify the stated load capacity and ensure mounts are robust. For frequent heavy loading, use steps as an aid and rely on appropriate loading equipment to protect the vehicle and hardware.
Are aluminium side steps better than steel?
Aluminium offers better inherent resistance to corrosion and is lighter, which can reduce stress on mounting points. Steel is typically stronger for the cost and can be very durable when properly coated. The best choice depends on expected exposure to moisture, required strength, and personal preference regarding weight and finish.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Crosstrek Side Step
To assemble this list of six top side steps for the Subaru Crosstrek, we applied vehicle-specific fitment as the primary filter, ensuring each option was designed to align with the Crosstrek's mounting points and rocker profile. Key evaluation criteria included material and corrosion resistance, mounting hardware and kit completeness, step height and width for ease of use, and load capacity to support repeated ingress and egress. We also considered finish options that resist chips and fading, and the design of the step surface for wet-weather traction. We excluded generic or universal-fit bars that require extensive modification, options without clear mounting instructions, and products lacking documented compatibility with the Crosstrek. The resulting shortlist favors solutions that minimize installation complexity while offering durable protection and consistent step ergonomics.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side step for your Subaru Crosstrek means balancing fitment, durability, and how you plan to use the vehicle. Prioritize options that clearly match Crosstrek mounting points, offer corrosion-resistant materials or finishes, and provide a secure, non-slip step surface. Consider the tradeoffs between weight, load capacity, and ground clearance when selecting a design. Focus on products with complete mounting kits and clear instructions to minimize installation time and preserve the vehicle’s finish.
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