Do you enjoy exploring tough trails but want to keep your Jeep Wrangler JL protected? Our list of best Jeep JL rock sliders will help get the job done.
If you’re proud of your off-road rig, you’re probably like us and want it to look sharp while keeping it protected. Rock sliders not only add a touch of elegance but an additional level of protection for your body from boulders on the trail. Our off-road experts have taken the guesswork out of which are the best Jeep rock sliders for your Jeep Wrangler JL.
Jeep rock sliders are a simple way to not only add a unique look to your Wrangler JL, but they offer assistance getting in and out of your rig in addition to protecting your cab from crush damage on the trails. Just like with any Jeep accessory, there is a huge selection of aftermarket offerings for you to navigate through. You’ve got to choose from designs, strength, ease of installation and more.
For model year 2018, the Jeep Wrangler got an update to the JL, which meant that the aftermarket had to make changes to their items to accommodate. In this guide, we help you find the most reliable and well-made Jeep JL rock sliders for your vehicle. If you have an older Wrangler and want to get a set of Jeep rock sliders for it, check out one of our older guides for jeep rock sliders to see if we’ve got what you’re looking for.
Table of contents
1. Editors Choice - EAG Off-Road Tubular Round Hole Rock Sliders
If you want your Jeep rock sliders to have a simple classic look that still provides sturdy protection for your Jeep Wrangler JL, The EAG Tubular Side Step rock sliders will be the perfect bolt-on accessory you need. These dual-function Jeep JL rock sliders provide a rugged off-road appearance, and practical protection to your side and undercarriage from brush, rocks, and other hazards you might come across on the trail. In addition to protecting the rocker panels of your Jeep Wrangler JL, the EAG rock sliders also serve as a convenient step, making it easy for you and your passengers to get in and out of your lifted JL.
These rock sliders are manufactured from durable 3/16-inch steel sheets and 2 x 0.120-inch steel tubing, with a sturdy design that is far more durable than aluminum offerings, ensuring that you’re getting a long-lasting product for your rig. To ensure that these rock sliders can stand the test of time, and all that mother nature can throw at it, EAG applies a textured black powder coat finish. Easy to follow instructions for these bolt-on rock sliders make it an easy addition for all you DIY mechanics. Great looks, quality you expect from EAG and simple installation make these our editors choice for best Jeep rock sliders on your JL.
2. Second Choice - Tidal Steel Side Step Rock Sliders
It was a close call, but the Jeep JL rock sliders from Tidal came in at a close second place as a favorite amongst our staff. The Tidal Steel Side Step rock sliders have many of the same features as our top choice. Minimal manufacturing differences like a 3/16 inch steel sheet and 2” x 0.120-inch steel tubing construction and marginally higher price contribute to that factor. These Jeep rock sliders still provide ample side protection, preventing brush and other trail hazards from harming your paint.
Installation is a breeze thanks to a convenient and straightforward bolt-on design and easy-to-follow instructions. If you’ve been looking to give your ride a little more character and appeal, you’ll find Tidal Steel’s entry to provide the look you need for an easy upgrade.
3. Coolest Looking - Tyger Auto Star Armor Side Step Rock Sliders
If a unique is what you want out of your Jeep rock sliders for your Wrangler JL, the Tyger Auto Star Side Step Nerf Bars are what you’re looking for. The Tyger Auto Star Armor nerf bars come with their patented STAR step pads that are designed to lend a helping hand getting in and out of your JL, and work on Jeeps that are both factory height and lifted. You also get a dual girder system that gives you maximum wheel-to-wheel protection for your Jeep JL’s underside and rocker panels. Each side supports up to 500 pounds thanks to the heavy-duty, 2-inch, 0.120-inch wall, single-piece design and dual-stage powder-coated texture black finish that provides protection and longevity in any weather condition.
Installation is a breeze thanks to an easy bolt-on design. There’s no drilling needed, ensuring that anyone can put these on by following the simple directions that come with the kit. Tyger also includes an impressive 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects, making these some of our favorite Jeep rock sliders.
4. U-Box Tubular Side Step Rock Sliders
Another solid set, of Jeep JL rock sliders come from U-box with their Tubular Side Step Rock Sliders. These deliver an attractive and convenient option giving Jeep JL owners the opportunity to deck out their rig with a multi-functional, unique looking bolt-on accessory. Manufactured from forged carbon steel, these rock sliders are built to last. To ensure that they do last, a durable rust-fighting textured black e-coating is applied to protect from corrosion.
Installation should only take you about an hour when you follow their simple bolt-on instructions. Once installed, stand back and appreciate the fit and finish of a solid product and appreciate a 5-year warranty against corrosion to ensure that they keep looking good.
5. Rampage TrailCrawler Rock Sliders
Take your Jeep JL off-road without fear of damage when you install this durable set of Jeep rock sliders from Rampage. Manufactured from 1.75 x 0.120-inch wall steel tubing, you can bet that you’re getting excellent build quality that is designed to withstand plenty of wear and tear. Each side is a single-piece design, with welded steel steps bars, so you can look forward to a simple bolt-on installation, where you don’t have to drill into your Jeep JL.
With a style that is both rugged and appealing, off-roaders who want protection and added character will appreciate the the stylistic construction in these rock sliders.
Do I really need rock sliders for when I go off-road?
Not necessarily. If you stick to fire roads or very basic trails, you might rather spend your pennies on some kind of other accessory. If any of your travels take you on paths that require some rock crawling, you’d be wise to install a set to protect your rocker panels from unexpectedly being crushed. Additionally, if you have a lifted Jeep Wrangler JL, rock sliders can make it easier to get in and out of the cab by offering a step.
Are there any rock sliders that are better than another?
When it comes to aftermarket products for the Jeep Wrangler JL, there is an endless number of companies for you to choose from. That is why we come up with guides like this. Our staff looks at features like construction and material quality, cost, ease of installation and even more real world reviews to ensure that we suggest only the best.
Additional Resources
- Best Jeep Front Bumpers To Protect Your Wrangler
- Best Jeep Wrangler Bikini Top Options
- Favorite Jeep Wheels For Off-Roading
Recent Updates
4/14/2022: Updated OOS product links, added new product (Tidal steel rock steps), added additional resources
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