Truck Accessories
- Trident Motorsports
- Jan 9
- 8 min read
Updated: Jun 1
Austin's #1 OffRoad / 4x4 Shop
Whether you’re shopping for a new truck bed cover, aftermarket bumpers, side steps, or any other truck accessories, you’ve come to the right place. Trident Motorsports is Austin’s #1 truck accessories shop.
Explore our recommended brands for each category below. When you’re ready, give us a call or Request A Quote — our Automotive Customization Experts are here to answer your questions and provide a personalized quote for your truck.
Contents
Bed Covers
(Tonneau Covers)
Here are our top recommended brands of tonneau covers. For important factors to consider when comparing bed covers, click the drop-down arrows below the brand comparison table.
Brand (click logo to visit) |  Rough Country |  BAK |  Undercover |  Retrax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Average Price | $–$$$ | $$–$$$ | $$–$$$ | $$$–$$$$ |
Style Options | Hard Roll-Up Soft-Roll-Up Tri-Fold Manual Retractable Power Retractable | Tri-Fold Hard Roll-Up | One Piece (Hinged) Hard Folding | Manual Retractable Power Retractable |
Material Options | Aluminum Vinyl | Aluminum Fiberglass-Reinforced Polymer | Aluminum ABS Composite (Paint Matched) | Aluminum Polycarbonate |
Recommended Model | Low Profile Cover Tri-Fold, Aluminum, Outstanding Value | BakFlip MX4 Tri-Fold, Aluminum, 400LB Weight Capacity | Elite LX One-Piece, ABS Composite, Paint Matched | RetraxONE Manual Retractable, Aluminum, Great Security |
Warranty |
Comparing Materials (click arrow to expand)
When choosing a truck bed cover, material is a key factor that affects durability, security, weather protection, ease of use, and cost.
Aluminum
Aluminum covers are highly durable, resistant to dents and corrosion, and offer excellent security with lockable designs. They typically feature tight seals for great weather protection and are easy to use, especially in folding or retractable styles, with mid- to high-range pricing.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass covers are also extremely durable and provide top-tier security and weather resistance thanks to their rigid, one-piece construction. However, they can be heavier and less versatile for accessing tall cargo, and are usually among the pricier options.
Polycarbonate & Composite
Polycarbonate or composite covers balance impact resistance with moderate to high security and weather protection, depending on the design. They are generally easy to use, especially in retractable or rolling styles, and fall in the mid- to high-price range.
Vinyl
Vinyl and fabric covers are the most affordable and easiest to operate, rolling up quickly for full bed access. However, they offer the least security and durability, and may not provide as much weather protection as hard covers.
Comparing Styles (click arrow to expand)
The style of bed cover also plays a major role in how well it meets your needs. Tri-Fold Tri-fold or hard folding covers are very durable, provide good security, and allow for partial or full bed access by folding the panels. They seal tightly to protect against the elements and are generally easy to use, with moderate to high pricing. Retractable Retractable covers—available in manual or power-operated versions—offer excellent durability and security, and slide fully out of the way for maximum bed access. They are extremely user-friendly, especially with power options, but tend to be the most expensive. Roll-Up
Roll-up covers (either soft or hard) are easy to use and maximize bed space, but soft versions offer lower security. Their weather protection depends on the quality of the seals, and they are typically the most budget-friendly. One-Piece One-piece (hinged) covers are extremely secure and weather-tight, but limit your ability to haul taller cargo. They are heavier and may require more effort to open, and are usually priced at the higher end.
Bumpers
Brand (click logo to visit) | Rough Country |  Ranch Hand |  Bodyguard |  Fab Fours |  Addictive Desert Designs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Average Price | $ | $$ | $$–$$$$ | $$–$$$$ | $$$–$$$$ |
Fitment | Compact Mid-Size Full-Size Jeeps SUVs | Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty SUVs Jeeps | Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty | Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeeps SUVs Sprinters | Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty SUVs Jeeps |
Application | Off-Road Sport Ranch/Utility | Commercial, Ranch/Utility | Commercial Ranch/Utility Off-Road | Baja Off-Road Ranch/Utility Show/Custom | Baja Off-Road Sport Show/Custom |
Features | Popular for affordable, versatile bumpers and accessories that offer solid off-road performance and easy installation for a wide range of trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs | Renowned for rugged, heavy-duty bumpers and grille guards designed for maximum protection and durability, proudly made in Texas | Recognized as the oldest independently owned bumper manufacturer in the US – stylish, functional, and durable heavy-duty bumpers, made in Texas | Specializes in innovative, high-strength bumpers with bold designs, using advanced engineering to deliver maximum durability and unique style –US made | Known for aggressive, high-clearance bumpers with cutting-edge styling and precision fitment, engineered for off-road performance and desert racing |
Warranty |
Comparing Fitment (click arrow to expand)
Fitment | Examples |
|---|---|
Compact | Ford Maverick |
Mid-Size | Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier |
Full-Size | Ford F-150, Chevy/GMC/RAM 1500, Toyota Tundra |
Heavy Duty | Ford F-250+, Chevy/GMC/RAM 2500+ |
Wrangler | TJ, JK, JL, JT (Gladiator) |
SUV | Chevy Tahoe, Toyota Land Cruiser |
Crossovers | Subaru Crosstrek, Honda CR-V |
Comparing Applications (click arrow to expand)
Application | Definition |
|---|---|
Baja | Inspired by desert racing; lightweight yet strong with high-clearance designs for maximum ground clearance and aggressive approach angles. Frequently includes mounts for auxiliary lighting and winches. Built for high-speed off-road and racing environments. |
Commercial | Designed for work trucks and fleet vehicles; prioritizes maximum durability, protection, and utility. Commonly features integrated grille guards, winch mounts, and provisions for towing or recovery. Ideal for construction, emergency response, and vehicles exposed to daily heavy use. |
Off-Road | Engineered for rugged terrain and trail use; maximizes approach/departure angles, allows for winch and light bar mounting, and withstands impacts from rocks, trees, and obstacles. Best for trail, overland, and expedition vehicles. |
Ranch/Utility | Built for rural, agricultural, and utility environments; offers robust front-end protection against animals, brush, and debris. Typically includes full grille guards and heavy-duty steel construction. Suited for ranchers, farmers, and anyone needing all-day protection. |
Show/Custom | Emphasizes unique styling, finishes, and custom features. While offering some protection, the main purpose is to enhance the vehicle’s appearance for shows or personal expression. May include modular or highly stylized designs. |
Sport | Focuses on style, weight savings, and a lower-profile design. Offers some protection but prioritizes aesthetics and performance, often for street trucks or vehicles that rarely see harsh conditions. Ideal for daily drivers wanting a stylish upgrade |
Exhaust
Brand (click logo to visit) | Rough Country |  AWE |  Borla |  MagnaFlow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Average Price | $–$$ | $$$–$$$$ | $$–$$$$ | $$–$$$$ |
Fitment | Full Size Trucks SUVs Jeeps | Mid-Size Trucks Full Size Trucks Jeeps Sedans Sports Cars SUVs | Mid-SizeTrucks Full Size Trucks HD Trucks Jeeps Sedans Sports Cars SUVs | Mid-Size Trucks Full Size Trucks Jeeps Sedans Sports Cars SUVs |
Type | Cat-Back (single/dual exit) Bolt-on | Cat-Back Axle-Back Downpipe-Back | Cat-Back Axle-Back Touring S-Type ATAK | Cat-Back Axle-Back Turbo-Back DPF-Back Single/Dual Exit |
Sound Signature | Moderate, aggressive truck tone | Deep, refined, drone-free, selectable (Touring/Track/SwitchPath) | Aggressive, throaty, multiple sound levels (Touring, S-Type, ATAK) | Deep, smooth, “throaty” rumble without harshness |
Brand Overview | Rough Country offers affordable, easy-to-install exhausts tuned for a moderate, aggressive sound and improved flow, specifically designed for trucks and off-road vehicles | Handcrafted in the US, AWE is known for premium performance exhausts with patented drone-canceling 180 Technology, refined sound, and direct-fit systems for high-end and enthusiast vehicles | Renowned for aggressive sound, high-flow designs, and extensive fitment; Borla’s S-Type, Touring, and ATAK lines are industry benchmarks for performance and tone | Known for deep, smooth tone sound, stainless steel construction, easy bolt-on installation, and lifetime warranty; various options for power and sound |
Warranty |
Comparing Exhaust Types (click arrow to expand)
Type | What It Replaces | Benefits | Performance Gain | Sound Change | Cost |
Axle-Back | Muffler/tailpipe (after axle) | Easy install, more sound, affordable | Low | Moderate | $–$$ |
Muffler-Back | Muffler and tailpipe | Sound and appearance | Low | Moderate | $–$$ |
Cat-Back | Catalytic converter to tip | More power, aggressive sound | Moderate | High | $$–$$$ |
Downpipe-Back | From downpipe outlet to tip | Improved flow and sound, emissions-friendly | Moderate–High | High | $$–$$$ |
Header-Back | Headers to tip | Maximum power and flow | High | High | $$$–$$$$ |
Turbo-Back | Turbo outlet to tip (turbo cars) | Max flow for turbo engines | High | High | $$$–$$$$ |
LED LIGhting
(Headlight/Tail Light Replacements, Light Bars, Light Pods)
Brand (click logo to visit) | Rough Country |  Morimoto |  Baja Designs |  Rigid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Average Price | $–$$ | $$$–$$$$ | $$$–$$$$ | $$$–$$$$ |
Product Type | Light Bars Light Pods LED Grilles Tailgate LED Strip | Headlights Tail Lights Fog Lights LED Grilles Mirror Lights Brake Lights Light Pods Light Bars | Light Bars Light Pods Laser Lights | Light Bars Light Pods Fog Lights Rock Lights |
Lighting Type | LED Halogen | LED HID | LED HID Halogen | LED |
Brand Overview | Affordable, easy-to-install LED lighting, good fit and finish, solid warranty, ideal for budget-conscious truck and Jeep owners | Premium, OEM-plus fit and finish, plug-and-play, ultra-bright, precise beam patterns, advanced R&D, renowned for quality and design | Race-proven, industry leader in high-performance off-road and auxiliary lighting, “Scientists of Lighting,” known for innovation, durability, and brightness | Benchmark for high-performance off-road LED lighting, rugged construction, reliability, and broad range of products for harsh environments |
Warranty |
Comparing Lighting Types (click arrow to expand)
Halogen
The most common and cost-effective headlight type, halogen bulbs use a tungsten filament and halogen gas to produce light.
Pros: Affordable, widely available, easy to replace, and durable when maintained.
Cons: Lower brightness and efficiency compared to newer technologies, generates significant heat, and has a shorter lifespan (typically 450–1,000 hours).
HID (High-Intensity Discharge) / Xenon
HID bulbs use an electric arc and xenon gas to emit a bright, bluish-white light.
Pros: Much brighter than halogen, longer lifespan (2,000–10,000 hours), greater range, and more energy efficient than halogen.
Cons: More expensive, requires a ballast for operation, takes a few seconds to reach full brightness, and can cause glare if not properly aimed.
LED (Light Emitting Diode)
LEDs use semiconductors to emit light, offering instant-on performance and high efficiency.
Pros: Extremely energy efficient, very long lifespan (up to 25,000–50,000 hours), instant brightness, compact size for flexible designs, and available in a range of color temperatures.
Cons: Higher initial cost, may require special adapters or housings for retrofits, and heat management is crucial for longevity.
Side Steps
(PowerSteps, Nerf Bars, Running Boards)
Brand (click logo to visit) | Rough Country |  N-Fab | Ranch Hand |  AMP Research |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Average Price | $ - $$$ | $ - $$ | $$ | $$$ - $$$$ |
Style | Nerf Bars Running Boards Power Steps | Nerf Bars Running Boards | Nerf Bars | Power Steps |
Brand Overview | Offers affordable, tough, and practical running boards and steps with wide stepping areas and easy installation, designed for everyday truck and SUV owners seeking value and durability | Specializes in stylish, durable nerf bars, drop steps, and running boards with aggressive, modern designs and options for off-road protection; made in the USA | Recognized for rugged, American-made, heavy-duty steel steps with ranch-inspired styling, excellent durability, and functional rocker protection—perfect for work and ranch trucks | Known for innovative, power-retractable steps that offer a clean look, easy access, and premium build quality—ideal for those wanting high-tech convenience and OEM-level fit and finish |
Warranty |
Comparing Styles (click to expand)
Power Steps (Retractable Running Boards)
Power-operated steps that automatically extend when you open the door and retract out of sight when closed, offering both increased ground clearance and a modern appearance.
Running Boards
Fixed, flat, wide steps mounted close to the vehicle, providing a stable, full-length stepping surface and a factory-style appearance. Ideal for families, children, or anyone needing extra support.
Nerf Bars
Tubular side steps with individual step pads under each door, delivering a sporty, rugged look and basic stepping functionality.
Get Expert Assistance
Lift kits can be complicated. Mistakes can be costly. We highly recommend consulting an expert before purchasing or installing any kit.
Choosing the right lift kit requires careful planning and research tailored to your vehicle’s specifications and intended use. At Trident Motorsports, our experts are here to guide you through every step—from selecting the perfect kit to professional installation. Contact us today for personalized advice!
Live in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Lago Vista, Marble Falls or surrounding areas? We're happy to answer any questions and provide a quote. Request-A-Quote to have one of our Automotive Customization Experts contact you.