Rocker Guards, Sliders, & Armor

When people ask gear-related questions like “What is the difference between rocker guards and side steps?” they often skip a step. First, it’s important to understand what a rocker guard is and what a side step is.

Rocker guards are what their name suggests. They’re plates of metal that protect a Jeep’s rockers against tumbling rocks and rogue tree branches, along with other unexpected obstacles you might encounter on a trail. Rocker guards for Jeeps are made from steel, usually with a heavy-duty black powder coating. This material serves as a highly durable, fortified shield against damage. To install rocker guards, it’s typically a fairly simple process. It mainly involves drilling into the body and securing the guards with nut inserts. Bear in mind that rocker guards are typically a more permanent modification, meant for those who plan on doing some serious off-roading.

Rocker guards are the first line of defense for a vehicle’s rockers. They’re crucial for protecting your vehicle’s underbelly when rock crawling and off-roading on jagged terrains.

Heavy-duty Protection for Off-roading:
If you’re new to 4x4s and off-roading, you might wonder, “Do Jeep rocker panels need protection? My Jeep is a rugged beast; it can handle it.” But if this ain’t your first rodeo, then you know: they’re pretty important. A vehicle’s rockers are the structural reinforcements that prevent the whole vehicle from collapsing. You definitely don’t want your Jeep collapsing when you’re out at a remote destination. This would be a 4×4 enthusiast’s worst nightmare. If you’ve made many modifications to your Jeep or Bronco, you’ll want to preserve it at all costs.

Rocker guards are a sound solution to keeping those rockers intact. They also function to offer some residual protection to the sill plate. With all the climbing in and out and jumping on and off your Jeep, the exterior sill plate could use a bit of protection from dents and dings. For maximum ruggedness, consider Fab Fours rocker guards, which are made highly durable with their tubular steel and fully welded construction.

Some Added Accessibility:
Rocker guards can also be used as steps to get into a tall vehicle easier, but they weren’t specifically designed for this purpose. Due to their material and construction, rocker guards may not be as comfortable or as grippy and secure to use as steps. If accessibility to your Jeep or Bronco is what you’re after, you’re going to want to look into side steps.

Rock sliders, also known as “rocker guards” are accessories that weld or bolt onto the underbelly of a vehicle to protect the rocker panels. This modification is essential to guard your vehicle against rocks, debris, branches, and other obstacles while off-roading. Rocker guards prevent damage, helping to preserve your 4×4 vehicle longer, so you can get the most use out of it. Rock sliders can also provide a surface to step on in some instances, making it easier to get in and out of your vehicle. Rocker guards are usually constructed from either steel or aluminum, each with their advantages. Steel is more durable and offers more protection. Aluminum is more corrosion-resistant and lightweight, making it a sound option for those who want to keep the weight of their vehicle down. N-fab and Go Rhino rock sliders are known and trusted by off-roaders and 4×4 enthusiasts everywhere.