Hey I apoligize for not getting back to you sooner, I didn't see the messege till this morning. Pull the rails off it looks way better and is way easier to turf! I've done it both ways and off is better and is easier to stick. Padding in the top of the foothold is just personal preference and have done it both ways. I can't really tell a difference on the top. If it were me with your footholds I wouldn't. Your running diggers, right? You have anymore questions feel free to contact me at Jeff@509freeride.com, Thanks!