Jeep side steps are sometimes called rock sliders. The name is appropriately coined after their function, to slide or deflect off rocks or other hard/solid terrain you might encounter while on the trail. Rock sliders are often the most robust side step option. Often anchoring to the Jeep’s frame, these sturdy rails are constructed of heavy gauge steel and designed to sustain the weight of the Jeep on an obstacle. They are also rounded and set at a slight angle to allow the Jeep to slide off the obstacle or deflect any possible damage to the doors or sides.

Rock sliders can also be used as strategic contact points for spotters looking to steer drivers through a trail. Although they might sustain cosmetic damage, they are designed to absorb heavy impact with very little structural damage. A good example of a robust and angular designed rock slider is the Rugged Ridge Rocker Guards. These rails are mounted to the frame of the Jeep and are made of heavy-duty 2" x 0.120" steel tubing.

Due to placement, rock sliders are also great side steps to get in/out of your Jeep. The angular design adds a bit more vertical height to the stepping portion and since they are mainly designed for deflection. They rarely have a flat surface which could provide some traction issues in snow/muddy conditions. These are best suited for heavy trail use with extensive rock crawling.

If you find yourself doing more overlanding or camping trails with little to no hard obstructions (rocks or tree trunks) but still need a platform to get in and out of your Jeep while still maintaining some form of side protection, then a set of side steps similar to the Barricade Extreme Side Steps might be a better solution.

Side step rails offer a nice balance of protection with a nice flat sturdy surface to get in and out of your Jeep. Often constructed of steel tubing like rock rails, they can still provide a nice layer of protection to the side of the Jeep. If you feel that this layer of protection isn’t necessary and would like to brighten up the side of your Jeep, the Rugged Ridge Stainless Steel side steps will give you a nice polished finished without the fear of rust.

In some case’s all you need is a simple, sturdy step to get in and out of your Jeep. In that situation a side step like the CARR Super Hoop is a great solution. This step offers a sturdy step that attaches to the side frame of the Jeep and provides a great secure solution to climb in and out of your Jeep.