When you’re searching for a running board for your vehicle, you should focus on a lot of things including strength and durability. In that case, iBoard can be a suitable option for you. iBoard is a running board brand owned by APS (Auto Part Specialist) which has several variations of running boards right now.
As I’m suggesting APS iBoard to you, I should describe why I’m suggesting it. So, here in this iBoard running boards review, I’m going to talk a lot about APS iBoards and the reasons behind recommending this. If you’re looking for a pair of good running boards within a reasonable price range, don’t leave.
Everything in this article is written using the result of thorough research on the manufacturer’s claims, customer reviews, and personal experience. So, you’ll be getting everything that you need to make a buying decision.
A bit about Auto Part Specialists (APS)
APS started its journey of manufacturing and offering aftermarket vehicle parts more than 16 years ago. It offers running boards, nerf bars, mesh grills, and vehicle armors for several vehicle models. The focus of APS is to deliver quality products that ensure comfort, durability, and safety.
APS works for ensuring a continued supply of products in the market. They have warehouses storing the products for smooth supply. They ensure customer satisfaction by delivering quality products on time.
iBoard from APS is a brand from APS that offer two types of running boards. Both are engineered and manufactured to last for a long time without giving any hassle to the users.
Why Choose APS iBoard Running Boards?
Quality Material
Running boards from iBoard are made with quality material. Sturdy and stable aircraft-grade aluminum is utilized to make the frame of the boards. As a result, the boards are strong, durable, rust-free, and lightweight.
The boards have high-grip rubber step-pads for keeping your feet. It is also made of quality rubber and covers the whole frame. The UV-resistant step pads don’t fade away easily.
Low Profile Look
If you’re a fan of low-profile looks, iBoard is the best pick for you. These running boards come with a simple yet attractive design that enhances the appearance of your vehicle without making it too bulky. While designing these boards, APS has focused on people who love to stay low-profile.
Besides ensuring a low-profile look, the one-piece design offers strength and durability as there are no weak points.
Installation Ease
iBoard offers installation ease. To get it mounted in your vehicle, you don’t need any kind of modification. Mounting brackets are sent with the boards that support you to install the boards easily. Also, you don’t need to use any special tools for this. Simple hand tools are enough for getting the job done.
Variety
iBoard offers you variation. Besides being made for several vehicle models and makes, these boards also come with different width variations. Common width options are 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch.
You’ll also find iBoard in two different colors- black and silver. The black one is black powder textured for rust protection and an elegant look. The silver one comes with a silver coating for a stylish look.
Full-Coverage Pad
Running boards from iBoard come with a step-pad that covers the whole board. This enhances the look. Besides, it makes sure that you can step anywhere while getting in or coming out of the vehicle. You’ll find it comfortable to step on the pads.
My Favorite iBoard Running Boards Review
1. APS iBoard Black Running Boards Style
iBoards are made for simplicity. The board we’re talking about right now is not an exception. If you’re looking for something that can help you without adding much to the appearance of your vehicle, pick this iBoard.
High-quality aircraft-grade aluminum is used to craft this board. So, you’ll find it lightweight and durable. One-piece aluminum is used to make the body of the board, which means no weak joints. Robotic-arm welding is used to add the end caps. So, overall build quality is great.
The board comes with a fully padded upper surface where you can put your steps. The pad is made of high-grade rubber to withstand all weather conditions. Also, it is UV resistant. The slip-protected rubber ensures a firm grip for better stepping ability.
The aluminum body helps the board to stay away from rust. So, it lasts to support you in getting inside or coming out of the vehicle for a long time. Its slim appearance doesn’t reduce the ground clearance much. It comes with raised ends on both sides which work as mudguards.
Installing the running board is very easy as it doesn’t require drilling or modifying the compatible vehicle. Mounting instructions and accessories come with it. You just read the instruction carefully and follow those accordingly.
Pros
Cons
2. APS iBoard 6in (Black Flat) Steps
If you’re looking for a pair of sleekier running boards, iBoard has this to offer. It is made thinner to affect ground clearance as less as possible. Also, this design ensures a low-profile appearance.
Just like all iBoards, its frame is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. One-piece solid aluminum is used to build a board. So, it is lightweight, strong, and durable. The durable aluminum construction also keeps it safe from rust.
The one I’m talking about here comes with a matte black finish which offers stronger protection from corrosion. You’ll also find a silver-colored version.
On the frame, it comes with a high-grip tread top covering the entire frame. As a result, you get a wide space to put your feet. Coming with a firm stepping grip, it offers you a secure stepping. It is UV-resistant and weather-resistant. So, you can expect the pad to last for a long time.
For a better OE look, it comes with tapered ends. Also, you’ll find a metal backsplash that keeps the stepping surface safe from spilling mud. So, the possibility of slipping is extremely low. You can expect each of these boards to hold 300 lbs. weight.
Bolt-on installation allows you to enjoy a hassle-free installation process. Just follow the installation instruction to get it mounted to your vehicle.
Pros
Cons
APS iBoard vs Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit
The Star Armor Kit from Tyger Auto is one of the most renowned running boards in the market. I love it for several features it comes with. Let’s compare these two boards for having a better understanding.
Material
iBoard is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The step pads are quality rubber with superior grip. On the other hand, Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit is made of sturdy steel. The step pads are also constructed of the same material.
Weight
You’ll find iBoard light and easy to handle as it is made of lightweight materials. Differently, the Star Armor board is heavy because of the steel construction. So, you might need help while handling it.
Variety
iBoard offers two color variations, I’ve already talked about both. It also offers size variation. You won’t see Star Armor offering any variation.
Look
If you’re a fan of the low-profile look, you should pick iBoard. It comes with a simple appearance. On the contrary, the Star Armor board comes with a rugged and sturdy look that gives your vehicle an aggressive appearance.
Stepping Space
In the case of iBoard, you’ll find a step pad covering the whole board. So, you’ll get a huge room for stepping. However, Star Armor Kit comes with a specific area for putting your feet. You can step out of that specific area, but you should be prepared for accidents in that case.
Installation Ease
Both offer easy bolt-on installation without the necessity of drilling your vehicle. However, you might find it a bit tough to install the Star Armor kit because of the weight.
Weight Capacity
iBoard claims to have the ability to carry around 300-500 lbs. depending on the model you pick. Similarly, the Star Armor board can carry 300-500 lbs. weight.
Price
You’ll find most iBoards within a range of 250-350 USD. On the other hand, Star Armor kits are more expensive. The common price range of these boards is 400-550 USD.
How to Maintain iBoard?
If you want your iBoard to last long, you need to be aware of maintaining it properly. Here I’m sharing some easy maintenance tips that can help you if you pick a set of these boards.
- Don’t allow mud or dirt accumulation on the stepping surface. Clean the running boards every time you come back home from outside. Use water or a brush for this.
- Deep wash the boards at least once a month. Do this to remove water spots and keep the appearance clean.
- Look for small rust spots. If you find any, clean it as soon as possible. Leaving it would allow rust to spread.
- After off-roading, check the boards for any wear or scratch. It is common because off-roading on a dry surface throws many rock chips and stones to the running boards.
- Make sure that the board is not carrying more than its capacity. If possible, keep the maximum weight 20-25 lbs. lower than the weight capacity.
FAQs About iBoard Running Boards
How much weight an iBoard can carry?
Weight capacity is one of the most important factors you should think of while buying a pair of running boards, especially when someone really heavy rides the vehicle frequently. However, you don’t have to worry much about it in the case of iBoard because it can carry a load of around 300-500 lbs. easily. So, anyone can effortlessly use it to enter or come out of the vehicle without any risk of an accident.
However, you need to maintain the iBoard properly if you want to make sure that it is safe for carrying maximum weight capacity regularly.
Which one is better- a fully padded board or a board with specific steps?
It depends on your preference. My opinion says that fully padded boards are better because here you’ll find a huge surface for stepping. As these are fully padded, the risk of slipping is almost zero here. This helps you especially when you’re in a hurry.
iBoard comes with such an advantage. So, picking iBoard is my suggestion.
However, some like boards with small and specific stepping areas. I don’t have any idea about the exact motive behind it. There might be some reasons, I’m sure.
APS Running Boards Review & Installation Video
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a pair of running boards within a moderate budget, iBoard is the best option in my opinion. You’ll find several cheaper options made with ABS plastic and such materials. However, I don’t suggest those boards because installing running boards is a long-term investment.
In my iBoard running boards review article, I’ve talked about several things related to these boards. Also, I’ve reviewed my top picks from iBoard. I’ve shared my opinion. Now it is your turn to decide. I won’t say that iBoard is the only best pick. But considering everything (price, durability, quality, weight capacity, etc.) I think only a few boards can be alternatives to it.
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