stock skid plate and running boards vs. optional ones

[alex_shin]

I was wondering how robust are the stock skid plate and running boards on a base LC ?
What confused me is that configurator offers upgraded skid plate and rock rails.
Do I need those?

I plan on doing some not-too-extreme off-roading.
For reference, I just ripped gas tank open on my Highlander in Owyhee Canyonlands over Memorial weekend

 

[Teebo]

The first edition comes with a steel skid plate. I'm not sure what the other trims come with. The rock rails and skid plates are a nice bit of extra protection.