Respectfully, I'd consider another option before you pull the trigger on those flat steps or rock sliders. Ngl, while everyone is talking about style and price, I'm more worried about the SAFETY aspect of a DIY install on a vehicle this heavy. The R1T has very specific jack points and sensitive battery shielding underneath. If you mess up the install or use hardware that isn't rated for the weight, you're looking at a massive repair bill or, worse, a step that shears off when your kids are climbing in.

I'd actually suggest looking into Hanson Off-Road R1T Rock Sliders or even the T-Max Electric Retractable Running Boards if you want to keep that ground clearance high but need a real drop for your knees.

Quick tips for staying safe:
- Honestly, unless you have a high-quality torque wrench and a buddy to help hold the weight, take it to a professional shop that handles EVs.
- Be careful with generic bolts; make sure everything is grade 8 hardware to handle the lateral stress.

Option A (Flat Steps) vs Option B (Sliders): Flat steps like the GoRhino RB20 Slim Running Boards are easier to find, but they often sit lower and can snag on curbs. Sliders are way safer for the truck's body but are usually much heavier and harder to install solo. If you really want the best balance of safety and utility, I'd go with the Hanson ones because they're built like a tank. Just my two cents, but definitely prioritize that structural integrity over saving a few bucks!! gl with the build

Sooo I actually went through this same dilemma last month lol. For your R1T, you're basically looking at EV Sportline RMaxx Running Boards vs. the RealTruck GoRhino RB20 Running Boards.

I ended up going with the RMaxx ones cuz they use the factory mounting points and honestly, they dont mess with the aerodynamics much at all. They're a flat-step style which is WAY better for kids and older knees tbh. The GoRhino ones are cool and more of a rugged rock slider vibe, but they can feel a bit narrow if youre wearing boots.

Pros for RMaxx: super sleek, keeps ground clearance, and easy to jack. Cons: a bit pricier. Pros for GoRhino: cheaper and looks tough, but installation is kinda a pain in the driveway.

If you're handy, you can DIY it in about 2 hours, but having a second person to hold the boards up is HUGE. Gl with the build! 👍

Ok so, jumping in here with a bit of a technical deep dive because I spent weeks obsessing over this for my own R1T. If you're worried about ground clearance and jack points, you honestly have to be careful with some of the cheaper universal steps. Most of the 'flat' boards actually hang lower than the frame, which can be a nightmare if you ever go off-road or even just hit a high curb.

For your situation, I'd suggest looking at the Dodge Direct Megawatt Rock Sliders. They’re basically the gold standard for maintaining that sleek R1T aesthetic while being insanely durable. They double as actual armor, so they won't bend if you bottom out, and they don't block the factory jack points at all. Another solid alternative if you want a wider step for the kids is the HansaShow Rivian R1T Running Boards. They have a really clean, OEM+ look that blends into the trim better than the GoRhinos mentioned earlier.

Quick tip: Installation is totally a DIY job if you have a socket set and a torque wrench, but definitely grab a buddy to help hold them in place while you bolt 'em up—they're heavy! It took me about two hours in my driveway. Just make sure whatever you buy uses the factory mounting holes so you aren't drilling into your frame. Personally, I think the rock slider style is the best balance because it protects the battery pack too, which is a huge plus for peace of mind. gl!

yo, so i’ve been following this thread and honestly, i totally get the struggle with the kids and the knees... my back literally screams at me every time i hop into my R1T at standard height. but i wanted to chime in from a budget-conscious perspective cuz some of these high-end rock sliders are like, crazy expensive, and you might not need to spend $1k+ just to get a step up.

for your situation, here's what i recommend if you want to save some cash but still get decent quality:

* TAC Side Steps Running Boards for Rivian R1T – i’ve seen these go for around $350-$450 and they're basically the best value for a "flat" style step that doesn't break the bank.
* Tyger Auto TG-RS2R40208 Riser Running Boards – super solid build, and i think they look pretty sleek without being too bulky, usually priced under $500.
* Ionic 5" Black Railway Running Boards – these are great if you just want a simple, no-frills step that's easy on the wallet.

in my experience over the years, doing the install yourself is totally doable in a driveway! i did mine in about 2 hours with basic tools. just make sure you have a good jack... wait no, actually you don't even need to jack it up if you put it in 'highest' mode, which is a HUGE plus for DIY. honestly, unless you're planning on doing some serious rock crawling, the flatter boards are way better for the kids cuz they have more surface area. just my two cents! gl with the build!! 👍