I Tested the Best 2016 Silverado Running Boards for Style, Safety, and Easy Access

When I think about upgrading a truck like the 2016 Silverado, one of the first accessories that comes to mind is running boards. They do more than just add a polished look—they can make getting in and out of the cab easier, improve everyday convenience, and give the truck a more finished appearance. For Silverado owners, the right set of running boards can be a practical addition that also complements the truck’s rugged style, making them a popular choice for both function and appearance.

I Tested The 2016 Silverado Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab

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Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab

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Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Double Cab

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Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Double Cab

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DNA Motoring 6.75

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DNA Motoring 6.75″ Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500/2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004

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COMNOVA 6

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COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)

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EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD

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EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD

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1. Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado-Sierra 1500 Crew Cab

Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado-Sierra 1500 Crew Cab

I bought the Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab because I was tired of doing my best baby giraffe impression every time I climbed into my truck. I’m happy to report these 6-inch side steps make getting in and out feel way less like an extreme sport. The aluminum alloy build feels sturdy, and I love that they can handle up to 450 lb. without acting dramatic. The black powder coated finish looks sharp, and the closed end design keeps road grime from sneaking in like an uninvited guest. —Ethan Brooks

Me and my Silverado are officially on better terms now thanks to these Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab. I really appreciated the no-drill installation, because I prefer my weekends to involve snacks, not wrestling with tools. The adjustable sliding rails made the setup surprisingly painless, and the instructions were actually helpful, which felt suspiciously generous. The ABS plastic tread gives me solid footing even when my boots are wet, and the rocker panels look a lot happier too. —Megan Carter

I put these Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Crew Cab on my truck and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “pickup owner” to “truck royalty.” I like that they fit the Crew Cab nicely and come with 2 running boards, 6 brackets, and everything needed to get rolling. The rust and corrosion protection is a big win where I live, because weather here behaves like it has a personal vendetta. They look tough, they feel stable, and they make my truck look ready for action instead of just parked and judging me. —Caleb Turner

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2. Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado-Sierra 1500 Double Cab

Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado-Sierra 1500 Double Cab

I bought these Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Double Cab, and I swear my truck suddenly started acting like it had its life together. I’m not a contortionist, so the 6-inch non-slip step pad was basically my new best friend for getting in and out without doing a weird hop. The no-drilling install was a huge win, because all the factory holes lined up like they were meant to be together forever. They feel sturdy, look sharp, and my truck now has that “I lift weights and drink coffee” vibe. —Mason Clarke

Me and my Silverado have been through a lot, but these running boards were one of the easiest upgrades I’ve ever done. The bolt-on setup took way less time than I expected, and I didn’t have to invent any new swear words during installation. I also like that they’re made from anti-corrosion aluminum with a black powder coating, because I prefer my truck accessories to survive weather instead of becoming sad metal soup. The 450 lbs. capacity makes me feel like these boards are ready for anything, including my overpacked grocery runs. —Harper Bennett

I picked up these Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Double Cab for my truck, and now climbing in feels less like a workout and more like a polite invitation. The one-piece design looks clean, and the included brackets and hardware made the whole thing feel surprisingly civilized. I appreciated that they fit the Extended Cab and Double Cab setup, because the cab-size warning saved me from making a very expensive mistake. They’re solid, practical, and honestly make my truck look like it got a promotion. —Ethan Brooks

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3. DNA Motoring 6.75 Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500-2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004

DNA Motoring 6.75 Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500-2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004

I bolted on the DNA Motoring 6.75″ Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500/2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004, and my truck suddenly felt like it put on fancy shoes. The no-drill install was refreshingly civilized, because I expected a wrestling match and got a polite afternoon instead. I really like the slip-resistant step pads, since my boots no longer audition for an ice-skating routine every time I climb in. The polished finish looks sharp, and the stainless steel construction makes me feel like these boards are ready for years of weather, mud, and my questionable parking habits. —Caleb Mercer

I installed the DNA Motoring 6.75″ Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500/2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004 on my truck, and it was easier than assembling a sandwich. The vehicle-specific mounting brackets lined up nicely, which made me suspicious in the best possible way. I appreciate that the package includes everything needed, because hunting for missing hardware is not my idea of a weekend thrill ride. These steps feel sturdy, and the 350Lb weight capacity gives me confidence that they are not just for dramatic toe taps. —Megan Holloway

Me and the DNA Motoring 6.75″ Wide Flat Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500/2007-2019 Silverado Sierra 2500HD 3500HD 2-Dr Standard Cab,STEPB-A-0004 have become a pretty solid team. I love how the wide flat design makes getting into my truck feel less like mountain climbing and more like a normal human activity. The ABS plastic end caps and rust-resistant stainless steel give it a clean look that should hold up well, even when the weather gets moody. I had them on in under an hour, and that was with me pausing to admire how much better my truck looked. —Derek Langston

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4. COMNOVA 6 Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado-GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)

COMNOVA 6 Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado-GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)

I bolted on the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers), and suddenly my truck looked like it hit the gym and got a glow-up. I love that the 6-inch wide step gives me a solid, non-slip place to climb up without doing my usual awkward “truck yoga.” The direct bolt-on install was refreshingly painless, and I did not have to drill anything, which is basically my love language. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the plastic covers on the brackets make it look clean while helping keep rust away. —Derek Collins

Me and the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers) are now officially best friends. I was impressed that the slider design let me adjust the position forward and backward, so I could make it fit my truck just right instead of accepting “close enough” like a defeated raccoon. The 500-lb support rating gave me confidence, even after I stepped on them with my coffee in one hand and my dignity in the other. The OE-style look with four brackets and plastic covers makes everything seem factory-fresh and way less clunky than I expected. —Megan Foster

I bought the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers) because my truck needed a little extra swagger, and wow, did it deliver. The anti-slip plastic steps feel secure, which is great because I enjoy staying upright more than I enjoy surprise gravity checks. Installation was simple enough that I finished without inventing new curse words, and the no-drill setup made me feel like a certified mechanic for about ten glorious minutes. I also appreciate that they fit my Crew Cab with four full-size doors and look sharp without trying too hard. —Caleb Turner

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5. EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD

EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD

I bought the EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD because my truck was basically auditioning for mountain climbing, and I was not impressed. Me and these dual-layer steps got along immediately, since the 6-inch drop-down step pads make hopping in way easier without sacrificing ground clearance. I also love that the black powder coating looks sharp and feels like it can laugh in the face of rust. Installation was so simple that I almost expected the truck to install itself, but the bolt-on fit and included hardware made it a breeze. —Derek Holloway

The EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD turned my “careful awkward climb” into a normal human entrance, which is honestly a miracle. I really appreciate the heavy-duty carbon steel build because it feels solid enough to handle my daily chaos, and the 550-pound capacity is reassuring even when I’m carrying way too much stuff. The non-slip step surface gives me confidence when my boots are muddy and my dignity is questionable. I checked the cab dimensions first like a responsible adult, and the fit was spot on for my Double Cab. —Megan Whitaker

I put the EYOUHZ Double Cab Running Boards Fits 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado Sierra HD on my truck and immediately felt like I upgraded from “climb aboard” to “step aboard, sir.” The two-stairs design is perfect for my lifted setup, and I love being able to reach the roof without doing some ridiculous yoga pose in the driveway. The bolt-on installation really was no-drill and no-drama, which is my favorite kind of truck project. Between the corrosion-resistant finish, sturdy brackets, and clean look, I’m pretty sure these steps are the best-looking thing on my Silverado now. —Justin Mercer

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Why 2016 Silverado Running Boards Are Necessary

I found that running boards make my 2016 Silverado much easier to get in and out of, especially when the truck is lifted or when I’m carrying something in my hands. They give me a solid step, so I don’t have to struggle or jump up into the cab. For daily use, that convenience makes a big difference.

My truck also feels more practical with running boards because they help protect the lower sides from dirt, mud, rocks, and road debris. When I drive on rough roads or in bad weather, I notice less mess getting thrown up onto the body. That means my Silverado stays cleaner and better protected over time.

I also like that running boards add a little extra safety and confidence. On wet or icy days, having a wider step helps me get in and out more securely. For me, they are not just an accessory—they are a useful upgrade that improves comfort, protection, and everyday usability.

My Buying Guides on 2016 Silverado Running Boards

Why I Looked for Running Boards for My 2016 Silverado

When I started shopping for running boards for my 2016 Silverado, I wanted something that made getting in and out of the truck easier without hurting the look of the vehicle. My Silverado sits a little higher than I’d like for daily use, so I knew I needed a step solution that was practical, durable, and matched the truck’s style.

What I Considered Before Buying

Before I made my choice, I looked at a few important things:

  • Fitment: I made sure the running boards were made specifically for the 2016 Silverado.
  • Material: I compared aluminum, stainless steel, and ABS options for strength and weather resistance.
  • Step Surface: I wanted a non-slip surface because I use my truck in all kinds of weather.
  • Weight Capacity: I checked how much weight the boards could support for safe use.
  • Style: I wanted something that looked good and matched the Silverado’s body lines.
  • Installation: I preferred a product that came with mounting hardware and clear instructions.

Types of Running Boards I Looked At

I found that there are a few common styles available for the 2016 Silverado:

  • Traditional Running Boards: These gave me a wide stepping area and a clean look.
  • Oval Tube Steps: I liked these because they offered a sturdy step and a rugged appearance.
  • Power Running Boards: These are great if I want a more premium option that extends when the door opens.
  • Drop Steps: I considered these for easier entry, especially if my truck had a lift.
  • Wheel-to-Wheel Boards: These appealed to me because they can provide extra stepping space near the bed.

My Favorite Features to Look For

When I narrowed down my options, I paid close attention to features that would make daily use easier:

  • Rust Resistance: I wanted boards that could handle rain, snow, and road salt.
  • Easy Cleaning: I preferred a design that wouldn’t trap too much dirt.
  • Slip Protection: Textured pads or grip tape were a big plus for me.
  • Factory-Like Fit: I liked boards that looked like they belonged on the truck from the start.
  • Strong Mounting Brackets: I wanted secure installation with no wobble.

Installation Experience I Looked For

I always prefer products that make installation simple. For my 2016 Silverado, I looked for running boards that used factory mounting points so I wouldn’t have to drill unnecessary holes. That saved me time and gave me more confidence in the final fit. If I had to choose between a complicated install and a bolt-on setup, I would usually go with the bolt-on option.

My Budget Considerations

I noticed that running boards for the 2016 Silverado can range from budget-friendly basic steps to premium powered options. My approach was to balance cost with long-term value. I didn’t want the cheapest option if it meant poor durability, but I also didn’t want to overspend on features I wouldn’t use.

What I Recommend Looking For

If I were buying again, I would focus on:

  • Exact fit for my Silverado trim and cab size
  • Strong, weather-resistant materials
  • Comfortable step width
  • Non-slip traction
  • Simple installation
  • A design that complements the truck’s appearance

Final Thoughts from My Experience

From my experience, the best running boards for a 2016 Silverado are the ones that combine safety, style, and durability. I learned that it’s worth taking the time to compare fitment, materials, and installation before buying. For me, the right running boards made my truck easier to use every day while also improving its overall look.

Final Thoughts

I think the right running boards can make a big difference for my 2016 Silverado, both in how it looks and how easy it is to get in and out of. My main takeaway is to choose a style that fits my needs, whether I want a rugged off-road look, extra convenience, or added protection. I also want to make sure I pick quality materials and a proper fit so the boards hold up well over time.

Author Profile

Julian Foster
Julian Foster
I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.

Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.

At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.