Runningboards: how effective are they?

[dron]

I am wondering how much protection do they provide against a) chip stones and debris while off-roading b) against slush while driving highways?

I would not mind to get rid of them (sell) if they are useless in that respect. I don't care about easy get in or load/off-load to/from roof-rack.

Thanks to all responded.

 

[adio3x]

I don't have running boards, but I've heard they'll just get ripped off if you're offroading. I'd just get sliders.

 

[RyanE]

They definitely help keep road crap off the doors, but they would only be a hindrance when off-roading.

I installed mine because both my pregnant 5' 2" wife and our 5 year old were having trouble getting in/out of the vehicle. I'd take them off in a second if they weren't needed for that reason.