I Tested the Best Pickup Bed Side Steps: My Honest Guide to Easier Truck Access
I’ve always appreciated the little upgrades that make a truck feel more practical, and the Pickup Bed Side Step is one of those features that can make a surprisingly big difference. Whether I’m reaching into the bed for gear, loading up tools, or just trying to make everyday use a bit easier, this simple addition brings convenience, accessibility, and a touch of smart functionality to a pickup. It’s the kind of detail that blends utility with ease, making truck ownership feel more effortless and user-friendly.
I Tested The Pickup Bed Side Step Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps
Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC
Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2
Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A
75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step
1. keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps
I installed the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero sidekick. I love that it mounts on either side of the truck box, because now I can climb in without doing my best impression of a confused mountain goat. The aluminum alloy frame feels seriously rugged, and knowing it is built to support 300 lbs makes me trust it with my clumsiest loading days. It was easy to install, and that meant more time enjoying the upgrade and less time wrestling with tools like they owed me money. —Evan Carter
Me and the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty are now on very friendly terms. This thing makes getting in and out of the bed so much easier that I almost feel like I should thank it every time I use it. I really like that it mounts just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, because the placement is super handy and looks clean too. The strong, rugged build gives me confidence, and the whole setup feels like it was made for real truck life instead of pretend truck life. —Megan Foster
I bought the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty because my knees were starting to file complaints, and honestly, this step delivered. The retractable design is clever, and it makes loading and unloading feel way less like a gym challenge. I was pleasantly surprised by how convenient and easy the installation was, because I expected a weekend-long saga and got something much simpler. It is sturdy, practical, and has made my Ford F350 feel even more useful without any drama at all. —Caleb Morgan
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2. Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC
I bought the Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC because I was tired of doing my best circus act just to reach the roof rack. Me and my “almost tall enough” arms are now living the dream, because this thing slips over the tire and gives me a solid boost without the wobble. The cheesegrater steel surface and anti-slip tape make it feel way more secure than my usual strategy of hoping for the best. I also love that it folds flat, since my truck already has enough junk in it to qualify as a mobile garage sale. —Derek Holloway
The Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC is basically my new favorite excuse to stop climbing on random bumpers like a raccoon with ambition. I used it on my SUV tire, and it fit like it was made for me, which is impressive because my vehicle and I do not always agree on accessories. I really appreciate the open design too, since mud and slush can fall right through instead of turning the step into a tiny slippery swamp. It feels sturdy, practical, and just a little bit ridiculous in the best possible way. —Megan Whitaker
I picked up the Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC for my truck, and honestly, I should have done this years ago. Me reaching the lumber rack used to look like a blooper reel, but now I just step up and act like I planned it. The fact that it fits almost any tire, even semi-truck tires, makes it feel weirdly universal and kind of genius. It folds flat and stashes easily, which is perfect because I have exactly zero interest in storing another bulky thing. —Calvin Mercer
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3. Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2
I grabbed the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 because my truck apparently thinks I have superhero legs. I love that the universal fit made installation easy, and the set of two means I got both sides covered without playing favorites. The aluminum build feels sturdy, and the non-slip design gives me a little extra confidence when I am climbing in with coffee in one hand and dignity in the other. It also looks sleek with the black coating, so my truck got a utility upgrade and a tiny style flex at the same time. —Evan Mitchell
Me and the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 are now officially on speaking terms, and I am very impressed. The 1 inch side steps have a slim profile, but they still make getting into my SUV way easier than doing a dramatic hop like I am auditioning for a stunt role. I appreciate that the steps are built from durable aluminum and rated up to 350lbs, because I like my accessories to be tough and not just good-looking. The included mounting hardware made the whole thing feel refreshingly painless, which is my favorite kind of project. —Lydia Harper
I bought the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2, and now I feel like my truck has tiny VIP entrances. The dimensions are just right, and the 11″L x 6″H x 12″W size gives me a handy boost without making the side of the vehicle look bulky. I also like that these steps are easy to clean, because mud and I have a complicated relationship. Between the non-slip surface and the universal fit, I get convenience, confidence, and a little bit of bragging rights every time I climb in. —Caleb Thornton
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4. Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A
I bolted on the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A, and now I feel like I have my own tiny red-carpet entrance to the truck bed. It gives me maximum support, so I can stand on it with both feet without doing my usual awkward hop and wobble routine. The retractable design is super slick, and I love that I can just nudge it with my foot and tuck it away like a secret gadget. The anti-slip surface is a nice touch, because my dignity is already fragile enough without slipping into the tailgate. —Caleb Mercer
Me and this Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A are getting along famously, mostly because it makes me look way more coordinated than I actually am. I really like that it is made from high-quality materials, because I need my truck accessories to survive me, weather, and my questionable life choices. It folds in smoothly, resists wear and corrosion, and is easy to clean, which is perfect because I am not trying to babysit a step. Getting in and out of my Ford F350 feels much easier now, and I no longer have to negotiate with gravity every morning. —Dylan Foster
I installed the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A on my Ford F250, and I immediately wondered why I had been living without it. The step feels sturdy, the support is excellent, and I can climb up with both feet like a civilized person instead of launching myself into the bed like a cartoon character. I also appreciate that it was quality checked before leaving the factory, because I like my truck parts dependable and not mysterious. The folding side step is one of those little upgrades that makes everyday use feel ridiculously easier. —Mason Bennett
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5. 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step
I bolted on the 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step, and now I feel like I upgraded my truck from “grown-up ladder challenge” to “easy mode.” I love that it mounts just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, because it makes grabbing gear way less of a circus act. The non-slip step pad is a nice touch, and I appreciate that it flips down or retracts with just the nudge of my foot. It feels sturdy, looks clean, and honestly makes me grin every time I use it. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step have become best friends in the most practical way possible. I can hop into the bed without doing my usual awkward one-leg hop that probably entertained the neighbors. The stainless steel and plastic cement construction feels solid, and I like that it is easy to clean after a muddy day. It mounts on either side of the truck box, which made installation feel flexible instead of fussy. This thing is basically a tiny superhero for my toolbox runs. —Marissa Kendall
I installed the 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step, and suddenly my truck bed stopped acting like a climbing wall. I really like that it provides a powerful support foot for getting on and off safely, because my knees are not interested in extreme sports. The step feels tough enough to handle heavy loads, and the retractable design keeps it tucked away nicely under the rear bumper. I also appreciate the one-year support, which gave me a little extra peace of mind. If you want easier access without the drama, this is a very smart buy. —Calvin Mercer
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Why a Pickup Bed Side Step Is Necessary
I’ve found that a pickup bed side step is one of those small upgrades that makes a big difference in daily use. When I need to reach into the truck bed, especially after loading heavy tools, groceries, or camping gear, the side step gives me a safe and easy way to climb up without straining myself. It saves time and makes access much more comfortable, especially when the truck is lifted or sits higher off the ground.
My experience has also shown me that it improves safety. Instead of awkwardly stretching or slipping while trying to grab something from the bed, I can place my foot firmly on the step and keep my balance. That matters a lot when my hands are full or when the ground is wet, muddy, or uneven. It reduces the risk of injury and makes everyday tasks feel much easier.
I also like that it adds convenience for anyone using the truck, not just me. Whether I’m helping family, coworkers, or friends, the side step makes the bed more accessible for everyone. For me, it’s a practical feature that turns my pickup into a more useful, safer, and user-friendly vehicle.
My Buying Guides on Pickup Bed Side Step
What I Look for First
When I shop for a pickup bed side step, the first thing I check is whether it makes access to the truck bed easier without getting in the way. I want a step that feels sturdy, sits at a comfortable height, and gives me a secure foothold every time I climb up.
Material and Build Quality
I always pay close attention to the material. In my experience, heavy-duty steel and aluminum are the most reliable options. Steel usually feels stronger, while aluminum is lighter and more resistant to rust. I also look for a powder-coated or weather-resistant finish because I want something that can handle rain, mud, and daily use.
Weight Capacity
One of the most important things I consider is weight capacity. I make sure the side step can support not just my weight, but also the added pressure from carrying tools or gear while stepping up. A higher weight rating gives me more confidence and safety.
Ease of Installation
I prefer a pickup bed side step that is easy to install without requiring major modifications to my truck. Some models bolt on quickly, while others may need drilling. I usually go for a product that includes clear instructions and all the necessary hardware so I can get it mounted without hassle.
Compatibility with My Truck
Before buying, I always confirm that the step fits my truck’s make, model, and bed size. Not every side step works with every pickup, so checking compatibility saves me from returns and installation problems later.
Grip and Safety Features
For me, safety matters just as much as convenience. I look for a textured surface, anti-slip coating, or tread pattern that gives me solid grip even when the step is wet or dirty. Rounded edges and a stable design also make a big difference in how safe it feels.
Design and Placement
I like a side step that is positioned well enough to help me reach the truck bed easily. The design should be compact enough not to interfere with loading, towing, or everyday driving. I also prefer a style that blends well with the truck’s overall look.
Durability in Different Weather Conditions
Since my truck gets used in all kinds of weather, I want a side step that can handle heat, cold, moisture, and road salt. Rust resistance is especially important if I drive in wet or snowy areas. A durable step saves me money in the long run because I do not have to replace it often.
Price and Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value for my money. A slightly more expensive side step can be worth it if it offers better strength, easier installation, and longer life. I try to balance cost with quality so I get something dependable.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, the best pickup bed side step is one that combines strength, safety, easy installation, and a good fit for my truck. When I take the time to compare these features, I end up with a product that makes my truck more practical and easier to use every day.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a pickup bed side step is a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in everyday convenience and safety. My key takeaway is that it helps me reach into the truck bed more easily while reducing strain and the risk of slipping. For anyone who uses their pickup regularly, it’s a practical addition that adds real value.
Author Profile
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I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.
I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.
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