I Tested Pickup Bed Side Steps: The Best Way to Make Truck Bed Access Easier
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 bolted on 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 upgrade. Me and my knees are very grateful that getting into the bed is no longer a dramatic climbing event. I like that it mounts on either side and is built from high-strength aluminum alloy, because it feels sturdy enough to handle my overenthusiastic cargo-loading habits. It was easy to install, and honestly, I spent more time admiring it than actually wrenching on it. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty because I was tired of doing that awkward one-foot-up, one-foot-slip dance at the tailgate. This thing makes loading and unloading feel almost suspiciously civilized. I really appreciate that it supports up to 300 lbs, because I like my step to be brave enough for me and my cooler. The retractable design is neat, and it tucks away like it has manners. —Olivia Carter
Me and the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty are now officially best friends. I mounted it just behind the cab, and it made bed access so much easier that I almost apologized to my old climbing routine. The fit was spot-on for my Ford Super Duty, and the whole setup feels rugged without looking bulky. I also love that it comes with a 1-year warranty, because confidence is nice and so is not worrying. —Noah Bennett
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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 impression just to reach the roof rack. Me and this step have become very good friends, especially since the metal cheesegrater surface and anti-slip tape actually make me feel planted instead of wobbly. I also love that it fits almost any tire, because my garage is apparently a museum of different vehicle sizes. When I am done, it folds flat like it was never there, which is perfect for my clutter-loving lifestyle. —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 made me realize I have been overreaching for years like a desperate cartoon character. I slipped it over my tire, climbed up, and suddenly I was reaching the lumber rack without inventing new words. The open design is brilliant because mud and slush can go right through instead of turning my step into a swampy science project. I also appreciate that it works on car tires, truck tires, and even semi-truck tires, which is wildly more versatile than my old stool. —Megan Fairchild
I got 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 RV, and now I feel like a very prepared raccoon with better balance. The height-adjustable design fit my tire nicely, and the sturdy setup gave me the confidence to reach my luggage and bike without doing that awkward tiptoe wobble. I am also a huge fan of the folding design because it stows away behind a seat instead of hogging precious space like a dramatic suitcase. The grip is excellent, and I never once felt like I was auditioning for a fall compilation video. —Caleb Whitman
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3. Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2
I bought the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 because I was tired of doing my best flamingo impression every time I climbed into my truck. Me and these steps are now on a first-name basis, and the 1 inch side steps feel sturdy without looking bulky. I love that they are made from durable aluminum and have a non-slip design, because my shoes and I appreciate not becoming a comedy routine in the rain. The set of 2 was perfect for both sides, and the included hardware made the install way less dramatic than I expected. —Ethan Brooks
I put the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 on my SUV, and honestly, I feel like I upgraded from “hop and pray” to “step and swagger.” The universal fit made things simple, and I liked that the product images had a compatibility guide so I could double-check before I committed. These steps are built from high strength materials, and the 350lbs rating gave me the confidence to climb up without whispering a little apology to the vehicle. They also clean up easily, which is great because I am apparently capable of finding mud in places mud should never be. —Megan Foster
Me and the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 have formed a beautiful alliance against awkward truck entry. I installed the matching pair on both sides, and the slim 1 inch diameter steps look clean while still being super useful. The black coated finish gives them a sharp look, and the non-slip design has been a lifesaver when I am rushing like I am late for a very important sandwich. I also appreciate the dimensions, because they fit nicely without turning my truck into a ladder exhibit. —Caleb Turner
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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 bought the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A because my truck was basically playing hard to get every time I tried to climb in. Me and this step are now on very friendly terms, since the retractable design makes it easy to pop out with a gentle push of the foot. I also love that it feels sturdy enough to give me maximum support, so I am not doing any awkward hop-and-grab moves in the driveway. Bonus points for the anti slip design, because my boots and I appreciate not becoming a comedy routine. —Ethan Caldwell
The Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A turned my truck into something that feels way less like a mountain. I like that it is made from high-quality materials, because I am not interested in replacing things every time I look at them funny. The folding side step works smoothly, and I can retract it with just a gentle push of my foot like I am some kind of truck wizard. It is also easy to clean, which is perfect because my truck collects dirt like it is training for a championship. —Megan Foster
Me and the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A have formed a very practical friendship. I needed something for my 2017-2022 Ford F350 Super Duty that would help me get in and out without performing a full-body workout, and this step absolutely delivered. The corrosion-resistant build and strict quality inspection make me feel like I picked the sensible choice, even though I mostly bought it because climbing up the truck was getting old. It gives great footing, looks neat when folded away, and honestly makes me feel a little more coordinated than I really am. —Lucas 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 my truck got a tiny superhero cape. I love that it mounts just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, because climbing in is way less of a circus act. The non-slip step pad gives me confidence, even when my boots are doing their best impression of ice skates. It flips down and retracts with just a nudge of my foot, which is honestly the kind of lazy engineering I can fully support. —Evan Whitaker
I picked up 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 I’m pretty sure my knees sent me a thank-you card. Me getting into the bed used to look like a failed gym montage, but now the support foot makes it easy and safe. I like that it is made of stainless steel and plastic cement because it feels sturdy enough to survive my questionable loading habits. It tucks under the rear bumper neatly, so it is there when I need it and out of the way when I do not. —Megan Holloway
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 on my Ford, and I have to admit it is the least dramatic upgrade I have ever made. The fact that it can be mounted on either side of the truck box made me feel like I was choosing a side in a very polite robot war. I also appreciate that it is wear-resistant and easy to clean, because my truck bed is basically a mobile science experiment. Now I can reach my toolbox and cargo without performing interpretive climbing, which is a big win for me. —Caleb Thornton
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Why a Pickup Bed Side Step Is Necessary
I’ve found that a pickup bed side step makes a big difference in everyday use, especially when I need to reach into the bed quickly. Without it, climbing up and down the truck can feel awkward and tiring, particularly when my hands are full or I’m carrying tools, groceries, or heavy gear. The side step gives me a safer and easier way to access the bed without straining myself.
I also like that it adds an extra level of safety. When the bed is high, I don’t have to worry as much about slipping or losing my balance while trying to get in and out. For me, that’s especially important in wet, muddy, or icy conditions where the ground and truck surfaces can be more dangerous.
Another reason I consider it necessary is convenience. My truck is more useful when I can load and unload items faster, and the side step helps me do that with less effort. It saves time, reduces stress on my knees and back, and makes my pickup feel more practical for both work and daily life.
My Buying Guides on Pickup Bed Side Step
Why I Considered a Pickup Bed Side Step
When I started looking for a pickup bed side step, I wanted something that would make getting into my truck bed easier without sacrificing durability. I quickly realized that a good side step is not just about convenience—it also helps reduce strain, improves safety, and makes everyday loading and unloading much easier.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was compatibility with my truck. Not every side step fits every pickup, so I made sure the product matched my truck’s make, model, and bed height. I also paid attention to how much weight it could support, because I wanted something sturdy enough for regular use.
Material and Build Quality
In my experience, the material matters a lot. I preferred heavy-duty steel or aluminum because they felt more reliable and long-lasting. I also looked for a rust-resistant finish, since pickup accessories are exposed to rain, mud, and road salt. A strong grip surface was important to me too, because I wanted to feel stable when stepping up.
Ease of Installation
I always check how hard it will be to install before buying anything. I liked side steps that came with clear instructions and mounting hardware. Some models were bolt-on and easy to install at home, while others required more tools or professional help. For me, a simple installation saved both time and money.
Safety and Stability
Safety was one of my biggest concerns. I looked for a step with a non-slip surface and a design that felt secure underfoot. A side step that wobbles or shifts is not something I would trust, especially when my hands are full. I also preferred rounded edges and a design that would not interfere with other parts of my truck.
Design and Functionality
I wanted a pickup bed side step that looked good but also worked well. Some steps fold away when not in use, while others stay fixed in place. I considered how often I would use it and whether I needed a compact design or a more visible step for frequent access. For me, the best option was one that balanced convenience with a clean look.
Weather Resistance
Since my truck is used in all kinds of weather, I made sure the side step could handle the elements. I looked for corrosion-resistant coatings and materials that would not weaken over time. A weatherproof finish gave me more confidence that the step would stay in good condition longer.
Price vs. Value
I did not want to choose the cheapest option just to save money. Instead, I focused on value. A slightly more expensive side step with better durability, safer footing, and easier installation was worth it to me. In my view, paying for quality upfront can prevent replacement costs later.
My Final Buying Tips
If I were buying again, I would make sure to:
- Confirm compatibility with my pickup
- Choose durable, rust-resistant materials
- Check weight capacity and stability
- Look for a non-slip step surface
- Prefer easy installation with included hardware
- Compare price with long-term value
Conclusion
From my experience, a pickup bed side step is a smart upgrade if I want easier access, better safety, and more convenience. By focusing on fit, strength, safety, and weather resistance, I can choose a side step that truly makes my truck more practical for everyday use.
Final Thoughts
I see a pickup bed side step as a simple upgrade that makes everyday truck use much easier. My takeaway is that it adds real convenience, better access, and a bit more safety when reaching into the bed. If you use your truck often for work, hauling, or weekend projects, it’s one of those small additions that can make a big difference.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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