Benefits of Running Boards on Honda Element: The 5 Best Options, Ranked by Real Buyer Feedback

This option earned its ranking because of its wide step surface, giving passengers plenty of room to plant their feet securely. I appreciate how the full-length step pad runs the entire span without leaving awkward gaps near the doors.

Beneath that wide rubberized pad sits a triple-layer protection system designed to fight off rust. But remember that this specific model explicitly excludes the SC trim, so verify your submodel before ordering. In my estimation, this is a very solid choice if you want maximum stepping space.

Drivers wanting a clean factory look will find that this aircraft-grade aluminum build hugs the rocker panels nicely. I like how the raised metal ends act as built-in mud guards to keep flying gravel from chewing up your lower doors.

The corrugated surface provides decent traction even when your boots are caked in winter slush. My critique here is that the flat OE style lacks the aggressive drop-down depth of a traditional nerf bar. Still, it delivers an understated aesthetic that matches the quirky geometry of the Element.

An unexpectedly clever touch on this top pick is its extra-wide six-inch platform, which essentially gives you a porch rather than a mere step. I consider this my overall top pick because it combines heavy-duty stainless steel with unmatched daily comfort for getting in and out.

The black powder-coated finish wards off corrosive road salt far better than raw aluminum ever could. My only hesitation is that such a wide board might look a bit bulky if you prefer a subtle profile. Even so, the sheer utility makes it worth every penny.

The most common complaint about this runner is that the aluminum alloy can feel slightly lighter than heavy-duty steel options, though it still holds up fine. I find that the textured black powder-coated finish does a commendable job of hiding scuffs and muddy boot prints.

The straightforward bolt-on installation uses pre-drilled factory points to save you from breaking out the drill. But I always advise double-checking your hardware pack before starting the job to ensure no brackets are missing. It represents a practical middle ground for budget-conscious owners.

Stepping up from the black powder-coated version above, this silver stainless steel variant focuses purely on maximum corrosion resistance. I think the polished 304 stainless steel finish looks exceptionally sharp against brighter vehicle paint colors.

The end-to-end step pads ensure you never slip, regardless of where your foot lands on the bar. My reservation is that silver finishes tend to show road grime and salt residue much faster than black ones do. If you live near the coast, though, this material grade is hard to beat.