SIDE STEPS QUESTIONS

I am thinking about purchasing an Element (as soon as this week) and am trying to decide on the accessories. I like to (side steps) but have a couple of concerns:

1) Does anybody know how much they weigh? Might seem like an odd question but with such a low Load Capacity (only 675 lbs.), I do not want to add too much additional (unnecessary) weight. After all, they would basically be cosmetic.

2) Are side steps an easy target for other car doors? I am afraid that every time somebody swings open a car door in a parking lot, the side steps will get smashed. And they do not appear to have any (side) protection. There is rubber/plastic on the top but the sides are exposed.

Thanks!