Tailgate steps are a useful addition to any truck or SUV that requires frequent loading and unloading of cargo. These steps are designed to provide a sturdy and secure platform for stepping onto the tailgate of a vehicle, making it easier to access the cargo area. They come in various shapes and sizes, with different features and materials, to suit different needs.
The critical thing to consider when purchasing a tailgate step is compatibility with your vehicle. Some models are designed to fit specific makes and models, while others are universal and can be adjusted to fit different vehicles. It’s essential to check the product specifications carefully to ensure that the step will fit your vehicle and provide a secure and stable platform.
At our testing lab, we spent several weeks researching and testing various tailgate steps to identify the ones that offer the best combination of durability, functionality, and ease of use. We evaluated each product based on factors such as build quality, weight capacity, ease of installation, and user-friendliness.
After extensive testing, we have identified the top three tailgate steps that offer the best value for money and performance. These steps are designed to meet the needs of different users, from occasional users to heavy-duty users who require a robust and reliable step. In the following sections, we will review each product in detail, highlighting its features and benefits, and providing our expert opinion on its performance.
Best Tailgate Steps
We know that getting in and out of a truck bed can be a hassle, especially when you’re carrying heavy items or have limited mobility. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best tailgate steps on the market to make your life easier. These steps are designed to fit most trucks and SUVs, and they provide a sturdy platform for you to step on when you need to access your cargo. We’ve researched and tested these products to ensure that they are safe, durable, and easy to use. Check out our top picks below.
Traxion Tailgate Ladder
If you’re looking for an easy-to-install tailgate ladder that provides a nearly universal fit for pick-up truck owners, the Traxion Tailgate Ladder is an excellent choice. It deploys in just a couple of seconds, making it easy to use and saving you time and effort. It significantly reduces the physical strain on your body as you enter and exit your truck bed, making it an excellent choice for those with back, knee, or mobility issues.
Pros
- Fits most trucks with tailgate heights ranging from 28″ to 42″, providing a nearly universal fit for pick-up truck owners.
- Deploys in just a couple of seconds, making it easy to use and saving you time and effort.
- Significantly reduces the physical strain on your body as you enter and exit your truck bed, making it an excellent choice for those with back, knee, or mobility issues.
Cons
- This part will not work with Dodge Ram Box, Chevrolet Avalanche, or Cadillac Escalade Trucks. We do not support installation on these vehicles.
- Only half of the holes in the mounting plate will be used. Based on the model of the truck or tailgate, the screw hole locations will vary.
- The optimum screw locations are the front and back sides of the mounting plate instead of the interior holes. Drill six holes in optimal locations using a 0.14-inch drill.
We recently installed the Traxion Tailgate Ladder on our truck, and we’re very satisfied with its performance. The ladder is easy to install and provides a secure and stable platform for entering and exiting the truck bed. We appreciate that it folds neatly against the tailgate and stays out of the way of our valuable cargo space when not in use, maximizing the space in our truck bed.
One thing to note is that the installation process can be a bit tricky, especially if you have a newer truck with a backup camera or other features that may interfere with the ladder’s mounting plate. However, with a little patience and some careful planning, we were able to get the ladder installed without any major issues.
Overall, we highly recommend the Traxion Tailgate Ladder for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and durable tailgate ladder that provides a nearly universal fit for pick-up truck owners.
Beech Lane Pickup Truck Tailgate Ladder
If you’re tired of struggling to get in and out of your pickup truck bed, the Beech Lane Pickup Truck Tailgate Ladder is the perfect solution. With its universal fit and durable construction, this ladder makes it easy to access your truck bed, no matter how high off the ground it is.
Pros
- Universal fit makes it compatible with most pickup trucks
- Aluminum step grip plates provide extra traction for safety
- Sturdy rubber ladder feet ensure a secure footing on the ground
Cons
- Does not fit Dodge RamBox, Chevrolet Avalanche or Cadillac Escalade Trucks
- Installation may require some drilling
- Strap that comes with the ladder may not be very useful
We were impressed with the Beech Lane Pickup Truck Tailgate Ladder’s sturdiness and ease of use. The ladder’s aluminum step grip plates provide a secure footing, even in wet or slippery conditions, while the rubber ladder feet ensure a solid base on the ground. Installation was straightforward, although we did have to do some drilling to get the ladder securely attached to our truck’s tailgate.
One minor downside is that the ladder is not compatible with Dodge RamBox, Chevrolet Avalanche or Cadillac Escalade Trucks. Additionally, while the ladder comes with a strap, we found that it didn’t really serve much of a purpose. However, these minor issues didn’t detract from the overall usefulness and convenience of the Beech Lane Pickup Truck Tailgate Ladder.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Beech Lane Pickup Truck Tailgate Ladder to anyone who wants an easy and safe way to access their truck bed. With its universal fit, durable construction, and lifetime warranty, this ladder is a smart investment for any pickup truck owner.
Nilight Tailgate Ladder
We highly recommend the Nilight Tailgate Ladder for anyone who owns a truck and needs a safe and easy way to access the bed.
Pros
- The ladder is universal and fits all trucks with a height of 34 to 42 inches from the ground.
- The installation process is easy and foolproof, requiring only a 5/16” or 8 mm Nut Driver Drill Attachment and a 3/8” or 10 mm wrench with the Assembly Instruction.
- The ladder is sturdy and durable, with a load capacity of 300 lbs and an electroplated surface that is not prone to rusting.
Cons
- The ladder may not be suitable for trucks with a bed liner that extends over the tailgate.
- The ladder may not be suitable for trucks with a rearview camera that is mounted on the tailgate.
- The ladder may not be suitable for trucks with a tonneau cover that covers the tailgate.
We found the Nilight Tailgate Ladder to be a game changer for accessing the bed of our truck. The ladder is easy to install and feels very secure when in use. The aluminum step grip plates provide excellent traction, even in wet conditions, and the rubber ladder feet make a solid connection with the ground. We also appreciated the included tie-down straps, which help to keep the ladder in place during transport.
Overall, the Nilight Tailgate Ladder is a great investment for anyone who wants to make accessing the bed of their truck easier and safer. With its sturdy construction, easy installation, and universal fit, we think it’s a must-have accessory for any truck owner.
WeatherTech Bump Step
If you’re looking for a reliable bumper step that can handle up to 300 pounds, the WeatherTech Bump Step is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Protects against minor bumps
Cons
- May not protect bumper as claimed
- Hitch pin not included
- Plastic material may not be as durable as metal
We recently installed the WeatherTech Bump Step on our truck and found it to be a convenient addition for accessing the truck bed. It was easy to install and fit perfectly in the receiver hitch. The lightweight plastic material made it easy to maneuver and position as needed.
One of the main benefits of the WeatherTech Bump Step is that it provides protection against minor bumps. While we haven’t tested this feature yet, we appreciate the added peace of mind it provides. However, we did notice that the plastic material may not hold up as well as metal in the event of a collision.
Overall, we would recommend the WeatherTech Bump Step for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-install bumper step. It’s perfect for accessing the truck bed or roof racks and provides added protection against minor bumps. Just be aware that the plastic material may not be as durable as metal and that you will need to purchase a hitch pin separately.
AA Products Inc. Tailgate Ladder
We highly recommend purchasing the AA Products Inc. Tailgate Ladder for anyone in need of a durable and sturdy ladder for their pickup truck.
Pros
- The ladder design is very stable and provides safety and support while standing, working, and completing tasks.
- The ladder is adjustable and can fit a variety of truck heights.
- The installation process is simple and easy to use.
Cons
- The written directions for installation are lacking.
- The nylon straps may not hold up over time.
- The shorter screws included should be longer.
We were impressed with the stability and support provided by the wide pedals, sturdy steel frame, non-slip rubber feet, and metal crossbars. The ladder is also weatherproof and has a significant prevention of surface oxidation or scratch. We found the ladder easy to adjust and install, although the written directions could be improved. While the nylon straps may not hold up over time, the ladder has a load-bearing capacity of up to 660 lb.
In summary, the AA Products Inc. Tailgate Ladder is a durable and reliable ladder that provides safety and support for any task.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best tailgate step for your vehicle, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of factors to help you make an informed decision.
Weight Capacity
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a tailgate step is its weight capacity. You’ll want to make sure that the step can support your weight, as well as any equipment or gear you may be carrying. Look for products with weight capacities that meet your needs.
Compatibility
Not all tailgate steps are compatible with all vehicles. Before making a purchase, make sure that the step you’re considering is designed to fit your specific make and model of truck. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
Ease of Use
You’ll want a tailgate step that is easy to use, especially if you plan on using it frequently. Look for products that are designed with user-friendliness in mind, such as steps that fold up and out of the way when not in use.
Durability
Your tailgate step will be exposed to the elements and will likely see a lot of wear and tear over time. Look for products that are made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand heavy use.
Price
Tailgate steps can range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Consider your budget and look for products that offer the features you need at a price point that works for you.
| Feature | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | Choose a step that can support your weight and gear |
| Compatibility | Check the manufacturer’s specifications for compatibility with your vehicle |
| Ease of Use | Look for products that are easy to use and fold up when not in use |
| Durability | Choose products made from high-quality, durable materials |
| Price | Consider your budget and look for products that meet your needs at a price point that works for you |