i know there are strong opinions about sidesteps on here - but much as I might like to do without them SWMBO has spoken. The deployables would be my first option but there seems to be a reliability problem (not to mention the cost) the fixed OEM ones seem expensive for what they are but I have had them previously and SWMBO has been happy (well happier).
So my question is what have others fitted that look OK - pictures would be useful  Geoff

Fixed OEM from main agent - looks good, practical, suites the car, no reliability problems or issues jacking the car in a worst case scenario. Best option all round IMHO - normally would probably do without but they are invaluable for elderly relatives and youngsters and save the car from the odd car park dink. Personally I also prefer the look over the electric which are unnecessarily complicated - cost wasn't a factor in my choice - hence I picked what I thought was the better option 2021 L405 Vogue SE 4.4 V8 DIESEL ~ #17

How much do side steps affect the vehicles use off road ?

Deployable sidesteps are the way to go. I've had them on my L322 and now on my L405, no reliability problem at all and none I've heard of elsewhere.