As kids gear up for a new school year, parents are busy ticking off items on the back-to-school checklist... stationery, uniforms, backpacks. But what about foot care? It’s easy to overlook, but keeping those little feet healthy is crucial, not just for comfort but for long-term well-being.

Here’s a fun and easy guide to Kroko’s ABCs of foot hygiene for kids.

A: Always Choose the Right Footwear and Socks

Shoes that don’t fit properly can lead to blisters, discomfort, or even long-term foot issues. When it comes to school shoes and socks:

• Make sure there’s enough room for toes to wiggle but that the shoes also provide adequate support.
• Opt for socks made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials to keep feet dry and comfortable.
• Pack an extra pair of socks for those unexpected spills or wet weather days.

B: Be Proactive About Foot Health

Regular foot care can help prevent common issues like ingrown toenails and infections. Here’s how:

• Trim toenails straight across to avoid painful ingrown nails.
• Let kids go barefoot sometimes - it’s great for strengthening foot muscles and natural development. Just ensure it’s in clean, safe environments.

C: Care for Warts and Athlete’s Foot

It’s important to address foot health concerns early to avoid spreading or worsening the problem:

• Athlete’s Foot: Look out for redness, peeling, or itching between the toes. If you spot these symptoms, treat them promptly and remind your child to keep their shoes on at school to prevent spreading the infection.
• Warts: If you notice warts, use a treatment that effectively tackles the virus and stops it from spreading. Shared spaces like locker rooms are hotspots for these issues, so regular checks are essential.

Must-Have Products for Foot Health

Kroko has the perfect lineup to keep your child’s feet in top shape:

• Kroko Foot Powder: Keeps feet dry and prevents odour caused by moisture.
• Kroko Foot Spray: Refreshes and protects feet with antifungal and antibacterial properties.
• Wart Fix by Kroko: A targeted solution for treating warts quickly and safely.

By making foot care a part of your back-to-school routine, you’re setting your child up for a year of comfort and activity - and a lifetime of healthy feet. After all, happy feet mean happy kids ready to take on the world. Your child’s future self will thank you!

For more information, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.

Stay one step ahead of fungal infections with these smart footcare habits.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects far more than just athletes. Symptoms include itching, flaking skin, redness, and even blisters. The good news is that it’s preventable!

As the weather heats up and we spend more time in closed shoes or public spaces like swimming pools and gyms, it’s essential to adopt good foot hygiene. Avoiding a few key mistakes can go a long way in keeping your feet healthy and fungus-free.

Here are nine common footcare mistakes that increase your risk of athlete’s foot and how to fix them:

1. Wearing the Wrong Socks

Synthetic socks may seem harmless, but they trap moisture and heat — the perfect breeding ground for fungal infections. Instead, opt for socks made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, which are breathable and help regulate moisture and temperature.

2. Not Airing Out Shoes

Wearing the same pair of shoes every day doesn’t give them time to dry out properly. Damp, warm interiors create an ideal environment for fungi to flourish. Rotate your shoes regularly and let them air out completely between wears.

3. Failing to Disinfect Shoes After Infection

If you’ve had athlete’s foot, don’t forget that the fungus can linger in your footwear. Use a disinfecting foot spray such as Kroko's Foot and Shoe Spray on the inside of your shoes to kill any remaining fungi. Make sure to let the shoes dry fully before wearing them again.

4. Skipping Daily Foot Hygiene

Neglecting to wash your feet — especially between the toes — allows sweat, dirt, and fungi to accumulate. Wash your feet thoroughly with warm water and mild soap every day, and dry them completely before putting on socks or shoes.

5. Not Keeping Feet Dry

Even if you wash your feet daily, moisture buildup from sweat can still cause problems, especially when wearing closed shoes for long periods. Change your socks if they become damp, and consider using a foot powder to absorb moisture and reduce bacteria.

6. Walking Barefoot in Public Areas

Going barefoot may feel freeing, but it’s a risky move in public areas like communal showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. These wet environments are hotspots for fungal infections. Always wear sandals or flip-flops in these spaces and dry your feet thoroughly afterward.

7. Not Letting Feet Breathe at Home

While it’s important to protect your feet in public, it’s equally important to give them time to breathe when you're at home. Take off your shoes and socks to allow air to circulate — this helps prevent moisture buildup and promotes overall foot health.

8. Sharing Personal Items

Sharing may be caring in many situations, but not when it comes to towels, socks, or shoes. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can easily spread through shared items, especially among children at school or sports facilities.

9. Ignoring the Warning Signs

Redness, itching, and flaking are often the first signs of athlete’s foot. Don’t ignore them. Early treatment can prevent the infection from spreading to others or to other areas of your body. Seek appropriate medical care or use over-the-counter antifungal treatments as soon as symptoms appear.

Prevention Is the Best Cure

Avoiding athlete’s foot starts with awareness and good daily habits. Incorporating antifungal products into your routine can offer extra protection, especially if you’re prone to sweaty feet or spend time in high-risk environments.

Kroko, a trusted South African manufacturer of skincare and footcare products, offers a range of solutions to help keep your feet fresh and fungus-free. Their Kroko Foot and Shoe Spray disinfects shoes effectively, while Kroko's Foot Powder helps absorb sweat and prevent the spread of bacteria.

To find out more about Kroko products, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.

For many South Africans, walking long distances is a daily necessity, whether it’s commuting to work, school, or the local market. While walking is great exercise, it can take a toll on your feet if you don’t give them the care and attention they deserve.

Long-term Foot Conditions

Walking is an excellent way to stay active, but long-term walkers often face specific foot health challenges that require attention. Here are some of the most common conditions that can develop:

• Stress Fractures: Repeated strain on the bones in the foot can lead to tiny cracks, increasing the risk of osteoporosis over time.
• Tendonitis: Overuse of tendons, like the Achilles, can result in painful inflammation and limited mobility.
• Plantar Fasciitis: This condition affects the tissue connecting the heel to the toes, causing discomfort with every step.
• Heel Pad Atrophy: The natural cushioning in the heel can shrink, leading to soreness and reduced shock absorption.
• Neuromas: These are painful enlargements of nerve tissue in the foot, often triggered by pressure or irritation.

3 Steps to Keep Your Feet Healthy

Here’s Kroko’s guide to keeping your feet healthy and happy – no matter the distance you walk!

Step 1: Wear the Right Shoes

The foundation of foot health starts with choosing the right shoes. Ill-fitting or inappropriate footwear can cause more harm than you might think. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Support and Protection: Properly fitted shoes support your feet and help prevent pain in your back, hips, and knees caused by poor posture or an uneven gait.
• Comfort Matters: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to blisters, chafing, corns, and calluses. Always try on both shoes (since most people have slightly different-sized feet) and make sure they fit snugly but allow room to wiggle your toes.
• Breathability: Opt for natural, breathable materials to keep your feet fresh and dry. This reduces the risk of fungal infections like athlete’s foot, which thrive in moist, enclosed spaces.

Step 2: Address Foot Issues Early

Long-distance walking can lead to common foot problems, but addressing them early can make all the difference.

• Corns and Calluses: These develop from repeated friction or pressure. Use Kroko Corn and Callus Remover, Kroko Corn Protectors, or Kroko Corn Plasters to relieve discomfort and promote healing.
• Cracked Heels: Walking barefoot or wearing open shoes can dry out your heels, leading to painful cracks. Moisturize regularly or use Kroko HeelFix or Kroko Heel Balm for effective treatment.
• Fungal Infections: Long walks in closed shoes can create the perfect environment for fungi to thrive. Keep your feet fresh with Kroko Foot Powder or Kroko Foot Spray, which also provide antifungal protection and reduce odour.

Step 3: Practice Daily Foot Care

Daily foot care is key to staying comfortable and avoiding long-term issues. Here are some simple tips:

• Wash and Dry: Make sure to clean your feet properly, especially between the toes, and dry them well to prevent fungal infections.
• Change Damp Socks: Keep your feet dry by changing socks if they get wet or sweaty. Choose natural fabric socks for better breathability.
• Trim Toenails: Keep toenails trimmed straight across to avoid painful ingrown nails, especially if you spend a lot of time in closed shoes.

Healthy Feet, Happy Life

Proper foot care isn’t just about avoiding discomfort; it’s about setting yourself up for a healthier future. Neglecting your feet can lead to serious issues like bunions, plantar fasciitis, and deformed toes.

Kroko’s Footcare Solutions

To keep your feet in tip-top shape, Kroko offers a range of effective products:

• Kroko Corn and Callus Remover – Targeted relief for corns and calluses.
• Kroko Corn Protectors & Kroko Medicated Corn Plasters – Extra comfort and prevention.
• Kroko HeelFix & Kroko Heel Balm – Moisturizing solutions for cracked heels.
• Kroko Foot Powder – Keeps feet dry and fresh, reducing odour and fungus.
• Kroko Foot Spray – On-the-go refreshment with antifungal protection.

For more information, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.

If you’re an athlete, or simply someone who leads an active lifestyle, chances are you’ve encountered the discomfort of corns and calluses. These common foot issues can cause pain and disrupt training, but they’re actually easily treatable with the right foot care routine and over-the-counter corn treatment.

Why Do Athletes Get Corns and Calluses?

Whether you’re pounding the pavement or lifting heavy at the gym, repetitive friction and pressure can cause thickened areas of skin to develop. Calluses usually appear on weight-bearing areas like the soles, while corns are smaller, more concentrated, and often form on toes or between them.

Sports That Increase Your Risk

Certain sports and workouts make athletes more vulnerable to these conditions:

• Running and Hiking – Repeated impact on the foot can trigger thick skin formation.
• Basketball and Dancing – Constant pivoting and quick movements lead to pressure points.
• High-Impact Workouts – Exercises like box jumps and stair climbing put strain on the ball of the foot.
• Racquet Sports – Gripping racquets can lead to hand calluses.
• Golf – Repeated gripping of clubs causes friction on palms and fingers.
• Gymnastics and Weightlifting – Bar work and heavy lifts cause skin thickening on hands and feet.

Prevention: Foot Care for Athletes

Preventing corns and calluses is all about reducing friction and pressure. Here are top tips for active individuals:

1.     Choose Proper Footwear

Poorly fitted shoes are the leading cause of corns. Invest in shoes that allow room for your toes to move and avoid tight spots that rub.

2.     Know Your Size

Your foot size can change over time – and varies across brands. Runners often go up a full size for better comfort. Always try shoes in the late afternoon when feet are most swollen.

3.     Replace Old Shoes

Worn-out soles and damaged linings don’t protect your feet properly. Swap out athletic shoes regularly – especially if you train often.

4.     Wear Quality Socks

Never skip the socks! Choose cushioned, moisture-wicking athletic socks to reduce skin-on-shoe friction.

Best Corn and Callus Treatments for Sports

When prevention isn’t enough, it’s time to treat. Kroko offers a complete range of corn treatments for runners, athletes, and anyone on their feet all day. Here’s what works:

1.     Kroko Corn and Callus Remover

Kroko Corn and Callus Remover - a tried-and-true solution since the 1930s. This salicylic acid-based ointment softens thickened skin so the corn or callus naturally falls away. Just apply, cover with a plaster, and repeat every two days.

2.     Kroko Corn Protectors

Kroko Corn Protectors - perfect for sensitive skin, these foam-ring cushions offer instant relief during sport by reducing pressure on the affected area. No medication – just comfort.

3.     Kroko Medicated Corn Plasters

Kroko Medicated Corn Plasters - a dual-action solution that combines powerful medication with a cushioned ring. Great for between-the-toe corns and even warts. These plasters stay put during intense movement.

4.     Kroko CornFix

Kroko CornFix - a targeted liquid treatment for hard-to-reach areas. Comes with an applicator and protective foam-ring plasters. Ideal for precision care after tough workouts.

Foot pain shouldn’t hold you back. Whether you're looking for corn treatment for runners, corn treatment for athletes, or just a reliable callus treatment, Kroko has you covered with effective, easy-to-use solutions trusted by South Africans for generations.

Visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za for more information. Follow @krokofootcare on Facebook or @kroko_footcare on Instagram to stay updated on the latest in foot treatment tips and products.

As we age, our feet carry the weight of a lifetime—literally! Yet, they’re often the most neglected part of our body. Without proper care, foot pain, joint stiffness, and mobility issues can creep in, affecting overall well-being. The good news? A few simple habits can help keep your feet happy and healthy well into your golden years.

Kroko, a leading South African footcare brand, has shared 5 great tips for keeping your feet in top shape as you age.

1.    Choose the Right Footwear

Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to painful foot conditions over time. Opt for well-cushioned, supportive shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure points and improve balance.

Avoid:

• High heels
• Narrow or tight shoes
• Shoes with poor arch support

Do this instead:

• Invest in comfortable, orthopaedic-friendly footwear
• Use Kroko’s Corn and Callus Remover, Medicated Plasters, Corn Protectors, or CornFix to treat calluses and corns early

2.    Stretch & Strengthen Your Feet

Keeping your feet flexible and strong can prevent stiffness and pain. Try these simple exercises:

• Toe curls – Strengthens foot muscles
• Ankle circles – Improves flexibility
• Elevate your feet – Reduces swelling
• Avoid crossing legs for too long – This can restrict circulation

A little movement goes a long way in keeping your feet pain-free!

3.    Trim Nails the Right Way

Improper nail trimming can lead to ingrown toenails, which are painful and can become infected.

• Trim your nails straight across (never rounded)
• Keep them at a moderate length to prevent breakage
• If you struggle with vision or dexterity, visit a professional for nail care

4.    Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Keeping your feet clean and moisturized is key to preventing infections and cracks.

• Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap
• Dry thoroughly (especially between the toes)
• Moisturize to prevent dryness and cracking
• Prevent fungal infections with Kroko’s Foot Powder, especially if you have circulation issues

For existing cracks, try Kroko’s HeelFix or Kroko's Heel Balm to repair and protect the skin.

5.    Seek Professional Help When Needed

Persistent foot pain, changes in nail or skin health, or mobility issues shouldn’t be ignored. A podiatrist can diagnose and manage conditions before they become serious.

When to see a doctor:

• Ongoing foot pain
• Changes in nail colour or texture
• Swelling that won’t go away
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

Regular check-ups can make all the difference in preventing long-term foot problems.

Take Care of Your Feet, Take Care of Your Future

Healthy feet mean better mobility, less pain, and greater independence in later years. The best part? Footcare doesn’t have to be complicated! A few small changes today can lead to a more comfortable tomorrow.

Kroko has been helping South Africans keep their feet fresh since 1963 with tried-and-tested footcare products that deliver real results.

Want to give your feet the care they deserve? Check out www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Stay updated by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.

With the 2025 Knysna Forest Marathon just around the corner, runners are gearing up to take on one of South Africa’s most scenic and challenging races. Whether it's your first time tackling the forest trails or you're adding another medal to your collection, one thing is certain - planning for recovery is just as important as training.

After pushing your limits through misty woods and rugged terrain, your feet and muscles will need some serious TLC. That’s why Kroko is sharing five expert-backed recovery tips to help you soothe sore muscles, revive tired feet, and speed up your healing—so you can bounce back stronger, faster, and ready for your next adventure.

1.    Immediate Post-Race Care

The moments right after crossing the finish line are crucial. Keep moving with gentle walking to prevent stiffness, and make sure to replenish lost fluids. Ice baths for about 10 to 15 minutes are highly effective in reducing muscle inflammation. Elevating your legs will also improve circulation, helping to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

2.    Reduce Inflammation and Pain

Muscle soreness is inevitable after running nearly 42 kilometres. Combat stiffness with light movement like short walks or swimming. An anti-inflammatory diet—featuring turmeric, ginger, and Omega-3 fatty acids—can also help reduce swelling and aid muscle recovery.

3.    Soothe Sore Feet

Your feet have taken a beating, so they need some TLC. Start by gently washing them with lukewarm water and mild soap to prevent infection. After drying thoroughly, apply a moisturising and healing product like Kroko’s Heel Balm to soothe cracked skin and restore moisture.

4.    Treat Blisters and Calluses the Right Way

Blisters are common after long-distance races, but resist the urge to pop them! Instead, keep them clean and covered with a bandage or dressing. If a blister bursts on its own, gently wash the area, leave the skin intact, and cover it with a sterile dressing. Calluses, on the other hand, can be treated gradually using specialised footcare products like Kroko Medicated Corn Plasters, Kroko CornFix, or Kroko Corn and Callus Remover.

5.    Maintain Long-Term Foot Health

Recovery doesn’t stop after a few days—it’s an ongoing process. Regular exfoliation (once or twice a week) prevents hardened skin buildup. Pressure points should be cushioned with products like Kroko Corn Protectors to support feet during recovery walks. For deep cracks, an intensive treatment like Kroko HeelFix will provide much-needed healing.

Since 1936, Kroko has been dedicated to keeping feet healthy and pain-free with trusted footcare solutions. To explore Kroko’s full range of products and expert footcare advice, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.

Your race may be over, but your recovery journey is just beginning. Give your feet the care they deserve, and they’ll carry you to your next great adventure!