Easier Entry for Every Colorado: Side Steps, Boards, and Bars

A mid-size truck still sits high enough that a step makes a real difference. With one, it's easier to climb in on a rainy morning, slide out of the back seat, or reach across the bed rail. This collection of Chevy Colorado side steps covers three main designs. Before you add one to your cart, it helps to understand how they differ and how they're fitted.

What You'll Find in This Category

• Running boards: A broad, flat platform mounted below the doors along the length of the cab.
• Nerf bars: A tubular rail with step pads positioned at the door openings.
• Step bars: Another common name for tubular side steps. Most shoppers use it interchangeably with "nerf bar."

"Side step" is the catch-all term, which is why searches for Chevrolet Colorado side steps and running boards often turn up the same products.

A Fitment Checklist for Colorado Owners

• Model year: This tells you which generation you have: 2004–2012, 2015–2022, or 2023 and newer.
• Cab style: Look at your doors and seating to tell a Regular Cab, Extended Cab, or Crew Cab apart. The Regular Cab was offered only on the first generation, and current trucks are Crew Cabs.
• Bed length: This matters for 2015–2022 Crew Cab trucks, which came with either a short box or a long box.
• Pair or single: Check whether the listing includes both sides or only one.
• VIN check: Entering your VIN confirms your exact configuration and rules out guesswork.

Each generation uses its own body, so a step built for one Colorado shouldn't be assumed to fit another. That's true even when both trucks are Crew Cabs.

Comparing Finish Options

Black

Black finishes work well on trucks with dark grilles, wheels, or badging. They also tend to hide the scuffs and dust that a step collects every day.

Chrome and Bright

Bright finishes stand out more and coordinate with chrome exterior trim. Expect to clean them more often to keep them looking sharp.

Whichever finish you choose, look at the step surface too. Textured pads offer better grip when the step is wet or muddy. Finish choices depend on the individual part number.

Complete the Look

Many Colorado owners pair new steps with splash guards and mud flaps to help keep tire spray off the lower body panels. If you're updating your truck's exterior more broadly, browse matching bumpers and replacement fenders. A step also makes it easier to reach gear mounted on roof racks. Inside, floor mats and carpets help protect the cab from everything that comes in on your boots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do nerf bars give rear-seat passengers a place to step on a Crew Cab?

Tubular steps place their pads at the door openings. Check the product images and description to confirm where the pads sit relative to the rear doors.

Are Chevy Colorado running boards and side steps different products?

"Side steps" is the broader category. Running boards are one type, alongside nerf bars and step bars.

How can I be sure a listing fits my truck?

Match the year, cab style, and bed length shown in the fitment notes, or enter your VIN to verify compatibility before you order.