I was fortunate to see both running boards and side steps side by side at one of the dealers I went to. To me, the decision between running boards and side step took more contemplation than deciding between Touring or Base model.
As several members have stated, both board and step do emit an image; sporty vs. tame. I opted for sporty. The next question I pondered was Acura vs. After Market.
IMO, I liked the Acura sides steps because they are broader than the after market tubes like Manik. I believe they are oval and about 4 inches across as compared to the round 3" Maniks. The cheapest Acura side step I found in the Southern California area is $549. They only come in Black, but I guess you can get them powder coated for a few hundred dollars more. (Tim at hondacuraworld has them cheaper...)
I ended up getting the Manik's in stainless steel because they looked so good on the MDX!!! If fact, it looks like it was made for the X. The way it compliments and matches the wheels, chrome handles, and anything else that's silver of the exterior...
The practical purpose for me is two fold. First a 5 year old boy no longer needs a "butt-boost" to get in. Second, once you learn the
"side-step shuffle" you are in the seat instead of sliding into the seat using the center console as an anchor... BTW, I'm 5'7" and the tallest in my family.
The Side Step Shuffle:
1. Open door.
2. Face the car.
3. (Here's the tricky part) Place the foot that is pointing to the
front of the car, on the black plastic step.
4. Step up and sit down.
* If you use the wrong foot to start, your butt will be on the steering wheel or glove compartment depending on which side you are entering.