Why Aluminum?
Material choice matters more than most people realize.
Below, we explain why ORO Racks are built from aluminum — and why it’s often the better choice for real-world truck use.
Why We Use Aluminum
Best for: Long-term ownership, camping, overland travel, daily driving
Aluminum offers an excellent balance of strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. It’s widely used in aerospace, marine, and automotive applications for a reason — it performs reliably in demanding environments without unnecessary mass.
Key advantages:
• Rust-free — ideal for wet, salty, and variable climates
• Significantly lighter than steel
• Easier on suspension, handling, and fuel economy
• Long service life with minimal maintenance
By using powder coated aluminum paired with stainless steel hardware, ORO Racks are designed to last for years without degradation.
What About Steel?
Steel is often associated with strength, and it certainly has its place — particularly in applications where extreme impact resistance is required.
However, for bed rack systems, steel introduces tradeoffs that many truck owners don’t need or want.
Common steel drawbacks:
• Heavier overall weight
• Higher risk of corrosion over time
• More maintenance in harsh environments
In many cases, the added weight of steel provides no practical benefit for camping, overland travel, or everyday use.
Strength vs Practical Strength
Real-world strength isn’t just about raw numbers — it’s about how a system performs over time. Aluminum allows us to build racks that are strong where it matters, without carrying unnecessary weight or long-term corrosion risk.
Ready to put it to use?
Still have questions? Email us — we’re happy to talk through materials, loads, and use cases.
