I've had one X5 with them and one without.

Pros:
Looks
Useful for putting bikes on roof rack
Helpful for people who have a hard time stepping up to get in (my mother)
Protects against door dings

Cons:
Have to be careful about dirt on pant legs
After 2 years starting to have uneven stain on Aluminum

I would get them again because of the door ding protection, the appearance and for putting my bikes on the roof. However, I agree that for many they may have limited functionality.

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2012 F10 550xi Carbon black/oyster
2011 E92 M3 SSII/black
2012 W166 ML63 Steel grey/porcelain
2007 E93 monaco blue/beige (retired)
2010 E70 35d Space grey/saddle brown (retired)