Debating Between My Current Running Boards vs Upgrading to Rock Sliders – RCI, C4, or Westcott?

TRD JON · 2025-05-16T15:59:44+00:00

Toyota just revealed the new TRD Pro color for 2026, and it’s a bold one—Wave Maker. This bright, icy blue is made to stand out and brings a fresh, adventurous vibe to the already aggressive 2026 Tundra TRD Pro. The color was created by Toyota’s CALTY Design team and is meant to inspire the spirit of adventure. After a few years of earthy tones like Terra and Mudbath, Wave Maker is a big shift—meant to capture the look and feel of unexplored places, like icy landscapes and even space. Wave Maker continues the TRD Pro color tradition that started with Inferno in 2015. It’s exclusive to 2026 TRD Pro models and will be available on the Tundra, along with the 4Runner, Tacoma, and Sequoia. Expect them at dealerships in fall 2025. So—what do you think of Wave Maker on the Tundra? Love it or leaving it? No info yet on price or extra features added for 2026 at this time.

TRDLEGACY

Member

May 6, 2025

What’s up everyone – I’m currently running the standard factory-style steps (aka running boards) on my 3rd Gen Tundra. They’ve been decent for basic day-to-day use, mainly helping the family (especially the kids) get in and out of the truck. But I’ve started doing more trails and light off-roading, so I’m thinking about upgrading to a set of rock sliders for better protection and utility.

Here’s what I’m wrestling with:

Rock sliders offer way more protection for the rocker panels and underbody, especially if things get tight or technical on the trail.
They also just look a lot better – cleaner, tougher, and way more off-road ready.
But my concern is step functionality – I still need something that my family can use as a reliable and safe step.

I’ve been looking at three brands in particular:

RCI Sliders: Great reputation, love that they offer sliders with top plates which help with footing. They have the option of angled or flat sliders – the angled look sleek, but flat might be more functional as steps.
C4 Fabrication: High quality and heavy-duty. They’re known for their craftsmanship, and their sliders with top plates are super grippy. My only hesitation is that they tend to sit a bit higher and tighter to the body, which may be tougher for kids to use as a step.
Westcott Designs: I already run their preload collar lift, so I’ve had a good experience with them. Their sliders seem solid, and I like that they design with both function and finish in mind. Still debating if their step access is as user-friendly as the others.

Has anyone run any of these on a 3rd Gen and can speak to how family-friendly they are? I’m trying to strike that balance between off-road protection and daily usability for the wife and kids. Would love to hear real-world feedback or see install pics if you’ve got any.

Appreciate any insight!