Winter Foot Care for Hardworking South Africans: Keep Your Feet Healthy All Season

Winter is tough on your skin but for many hardworking South Africans, it's especially hard on your feet.

Whether you're spending long hours on a construction site, standing behind a retail counter, working in healthcare, farming, warehousing, hospitality, security, or making deliveries, your feet work just as hard as you do. Cold weather, heavy work boots, long shifts and dry winter air can quickly lead to dry skin, painful cracked heels and uncomfortable calluses.

When every step matters, healthy feet aren't a luxury they're essential.

Why Do Cracked Heels Get Worse in Winter?

During winter, humidity drops and the air becomes much drier. This causes the skin to lose moisture faster than usual. The thick skin on your heels is particularly vulnerable, especially if you spend hours on your feet every day.

Without regular care, dry skin can become:

For people whose jobs depend on standing or walking all day, cracked heels can make every shift uncomfortable and even affect productivity.

Workers Who Put Their Feet Through the Most

Some occupations place enormous daily pressure on the feet, including:

If your feet carry you through a demanding workday, they deserve the same care you give the rest of your body.

A Simple Winter Foot Care Routine

The good news is that preventing cracked heels doesn't require an expensive spa treatment. Just a few minutes each day can make a significant difference.

1. Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly

After work, wash your feet with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, to help reduce moisture-related skin problems.

2. Remove Hard Skin Before It Cracks

Use a foot file on dry, hardened skin a few times each week. Regular maintenance helps prevent calluses from becoming thick enough to split.

3. Moisturise Every Day

Hydration is the key to preventing cracked heels. Apply a rich heel balm before bed so it has time to absorb overnight.

Products containing 20% urea are particularly effective because urea helps soften thick skin while drawing moisture into the heel.

4. Wear Clean, Dry Socks

Fresh socks help reduce friction, keep feet comfortable and support overall foot hygiene throughout the day.

Why Urea Works for Dry, Cracked Heels

Urea is one of the most recommended ingredients for treating dry, rough feet. It works by attracting moisture into the skin while gently softening thickened areas.

Kroko Heel Balm contains 20% urea, making it ideal for helping to restore moisture, soften callused skin and improve the appearance of cracked heels with regular use.

When used as part of a consistent foot care routine, it can help keep hardworking feet comfortable throughout the colder months.

Healthy Feet Help You Keep Moving

Looking after your feet isn't just about comfort, it's about maintaining your mobility, confidence and ability to keep doing the work that matters.

Whether you're working long shifts, walking thousands of steps a day or spending hours in safety boots, taking just a few minutes to care for your feet can prevent weeks of discomfort.

This winter, don't wait until cracked heels become painful. A simple daily foot care routine, combined with the right moisturising heel balm, can help keep your feet healthy, comfortable and ready for whatever the workday brings.

Because when your feet feel better, every step is easier.

The Most Overlooked Part of Comrades Marathon Training

When preparing for the Comrades Marathon, most runners focus on the obvious essentials: training plans, nutrition, hydration, and recovery. But there's one critical area that often gets neglected until it's too late, foot health.

Over nearly 90 kilometres of running, your feet absorb thousands of impacts, endure constant friction, and withstand hours of pressure. A minor irritation at the start of the race can quickly develop into a painful blister, bruised toenail, or debilitating hot spot by the finish line.

For many runners, the condition of their feet can make the difference between a successful finish and a difficult race day experience.

Why Foot Care Matters for Comrades Runners

Ultra-distance events place enormous demands on the body, and your feet bear the brunt of it. Dry skin, calluses, corns, pressure points, and poorly fitting footwear can all become major issues when you're spending eight hours or more on the road.

Plant-based ultra-runner Leozette Roode knows this firsthand.

"Running back-to-back Comrades Marathons in 2024 and 2025 taught me a lot about what it takes to go the distance. One of the most unexpected lessons was the importance of looking after my feet. As I prepare for the 100th Comrades Marathon next year, foot health will be a much bigger priority for me. Looking after your feet isn't just about comfort, it's an investment in longevity as a runner."

Many runners spend months preparing their cardiovascular fitness but very little time preparing the part of their body that will carry them every step of the way.

The Hidden Cost of Neglecting Your Feet

While sore muscles and tired legs are expected after Comrades, foot problems can often catch runners by surprise.

"I was prepared for the leg soreness that comes with a Comrades Marathon, but it was the condition of my feet that caught me completely off guard," says Roode.

"By the finish line, after nearly 90 kilometres on the road, the soles of my feet felt like they were on fire. Spending just over eight hours on my feet, combined with increased body heat and water retention, caused them to swell. The pressure inside my shoes left me with a deep bruise across the top of one foot and two black toenails. It was a powerful reminder of just how much our feet endure during an ultra-marathon."

Swelling, bruising, blisters and toenail damage are common among endurance runners, yet many athletes only think about foot care after problems have already developed.

Building Foot Care Into Your Training Plan

According to foot health specialist Lynsey Hammond from Kroko, runners should approach foot care in the same way they approach strength training and recovery.

Simple habits can help reduce discomfort and prevent many common race day foot problems:

Being proactive can improve comfort during training and help minimise issues on race day.

Recovery Starts With Your Feet

Foot care shouldn't end when you cross the finish line.

After a major endurance event, it's important to inspect your feet carefully for signs of damage. Swelling, blisters, bruising and nail injuries should be treated appropriately and given time to heal.

Post-race recovery should include:

Looking after your feet after the race can support faster recovery and help prepare you for your next running goal.

Experience Speaks Volumes

For experienced Comrades runner Michelle Stemmet, who will tackle her ninth Comrades Marathon in 2026, foot care has become a non-negotiable part of her preparation.

"The wrong shoes and socks almost cost me my second Comrades finish. That's why looking after your feet should be just as much a part of your race preparation as training itself."

Kroko's Top Foot Care Tips for Comrades Runners

Before the Race

During the Race

After the Race

Every Step Counts

The Comrades Marathon tests every aspect of a runner's preparation, and your feet are no exception. By making foot care part of your training, race day strategy and recovery routine, you'll be giving yourself the best possible foundation for success.

After all, when you're covering nearly 90 kilometres, every step counts.

Why Foot Health Is the Missing Link in Full-Body Wellness

World Foot Health Awareness Month

Every May marks World Foot Health Awareness Month, an international initiative to raise awareness for the critical role feet play in overall health, mobility, and quality of life.

Feet are the foundation of human movement

The foot is one of the most complex structures in the body containing 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments and this month we are encouraged to look at preventative care as well as early intervention and the link between foot health, posture, movement, and long-term physical wellbeing.

We spoke to Liani Potgieter, Physiotherapist, for her insights into foot care and overall health and wellbeing. She says, “our body is one unit, and we cannot treat it in isolation. Imagine your body as a car. If one tyre is even slightly off, the entire system compensates. Over time, that imbalance creates friction and strain elsewhere. The same applies to your body. A small issue in your foot, whether it’s a corn, callus, cracked heel or even a minor ankle injury, changes the way you walk, often without you noticing. You may still move freely, but another part of your body will compensate for that discomfort. Over time, this leads to misalignment and strain in areas far removed from the original issue, like your knees, hips, or lower back.”

Early warning signs

Understanding the early warning signs of this connection is key. If you notice discomfort elsewhere in your body, it may be worth looking down first. Here are some indicators:

Preventative home footcare


Preventative care remains the most effective approach. Simple, consistent habits and at home footcare can significantly reduce the risk of long-term imbalance:

Foot health a critical component of total wellness
As awareness grows, there is an opportunity to reframe foot health in South Africa, not as an afterthought, but as a critical component of total wellness. At Kroko, we believe it is important to educate about foot care, not only to avoid discomfort, but to help protect your mobility, your posture, and your overall quality of life.

Kroko’s trusted foot care range is available at leading pharmacies, including Dis-Chem Pharmacies and Clicks nationwide, as well as in Botswana and Namibia.

Built for HYROX: Why Your Feet Might Be Your Weakest Link and How to Fix It

If you’ve ever pushed through a HYROX race or even a brutal training session, you already know it’s not just your lungs and legs that take a beating.

It’s your feet.

From sled pushes to burpee broad jumps, wall balls to running laps, HYROX is relentless. And while most athletes obsess over shoes, recovery, and nutrition, foot care is often the overlooked performance edge.

Let’s change that.

The Reality: HYROX Is Tough on Feet

HYROX isn’t a single discipline sport. It’s a hybrid grind:

That combination creates the perfect storm for:

Ignore these, and they don’t just hurt, they affect your training, preparation and performance.

Small Problems = Big Performance Loss

A small corn or callus might seem harmless, until:

That’s when inefficiency creeps in and in HYROX, seconds matter.

The HYROX Foot Care Routine that actually works

1. Stay Ahead of Calluses

Calluses are normal but unmanaged ones become painful pressure points.

A product like KROKO CornFix works well here:

Tip: Don’t wait for pain. treat early.

2. Reduce Pressure on Hotspots

During training blocks, repeated stress can turn into corns.

Using KROKO Corn Protectors:

3. Fix Cracked Heels Before They Split

Dry, cracked heels are more than cosmetic:

Use KROKO Heel Balm:

For deeper cracks, KROKO HeelFix:

4. Control Sweat & Odour (Yes, It Matters)

HYROX = sweat. And sweaty feet = friction.

KROKO Foot Powder:

KROKO Foot & Shoe Odour Spray:

5. Protect Small Cuts Before They Become Big Problems

A tiny cut can quickly become painful under race conditions.

KROKO SkinFilm:

Think Like an Athlete

Elite HYROX athletes don’t just train hard they manage the details and are disciplined with their personal care.

Foot care should be:

You can have the engine, the strength, and the mindset, but if your feet are compromised, everything suffers.

Take care of them, and they’ll carry you through every sled push, every run, and every finish line.

Travel and Foot Health: The Do’s and Don’ts

When planning a trip, we think about flights, packing lists, and itineraries but our feet are often forgotten. Yet they do the bulk of the work when we travel. From mountain trails to airport terminals, your feet take thousands of steps every day.

Different types of travel activities place different stresses on your feet, so knowing how to care for them can make a huge difference to your comfort. Here are some simple do’s and don’ts to keep your feet happy on your next adventure.

Hiking

Long hikes over uneven terrain, especially while carrying a backpack, can place significant pressure on your feet. The constant friction inside boots and repetitive impact from walking can lead to blisters, calluses, black toenails, and cracked heels if your feet are not properly supported.

Do:
Choose the right hiking shoes. This means not only the correct style but also the correct size. Many hikers prefer boots that are about a size bigger to allow for swelling and thicker socks. Wearing thick, cushioned hiking socks can also reduce friction and provide extra padding, particularly in colder climates.

Don’t:
Start a hike wearing brand-new boots that haven’t been broken in. Ill-fitting shoes whether too tight or too loose can quickly cause painful friction. Socks should also fit properly to avoid bunching.

Walking (Urban Travel and Sightseeing)

When exploring a new city, it’s surprisingly easy to walk 20 000 steps or more in a single day. Constant walking on hard pavements often in stylish rather than supportive footwear can lead to foot fatigue, swelling, corns, and dry cracked skin.

Do:
Wear breathable, well-fitting walking shoes. In warmer destinations, lighter or thinner socks can help keep your feet cool while still providing comfort. After a long day of sightseeing, moisturising your feet, especially the heels, can help prevent dryness and cracking. Products like Kroko’s Heel Balm are designed to keep heels soft and hydrated.

Don’t:
Ignore pressure points or early callus formation. Small irritations can become painful problems after several days of constant walking if they’re left untreated.

Running (Travel Training and Events)

Whether you’re travelling for a race or simply keeping up your fitness routine while away, running places repetitive stress on the feet. Blisters, plantar strain, toenail trauma, and excessive sweating are all common issues for runners.

Do:
Keep your toenails neatly trimmed and wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction. Pay attention to early signs of pressure or callus build-up so you can address them before they become painful. Using a Kroko Corn Protector can help cushion sensitive areas and reduce pressure from tight shoes.

Don’t:
Push through discomfort caused by tight footwear or rubbing. What starts as a minor irritation can quickly become a painful blister when you’re running longer distances.

Travelling by Plane or Boat

Long-haul flights and extended boat trips often mean limited movement, which can affect circulation. This may lead to swollen ankles, fluid retention, and dry skin, especially when feet remain confined in shoes for long periods.

Do:
Keep your feet dry and fresh by using a foot powder, such as Kroko’s Foot Powder, in your shoes before and after travelling. Wearing compression socks can also help support circulation and reduce swelling during long journeys.

Don’t:
Keep your feet completely still for the entire trip. Whenever possible, stretch your legs, rotate your ankles, and move around to improve circulation.

Give Your Feet a Little Extra Care

Travel often means spending far more time on your feet than usual, so small signs of discomfort shouldn’t be ignored. Treat pressure points early, keep heels moisturised, and give your feet a little extra care after long days of exploring.

With the right footwear, supportive socks, and a few simple footcare habits, your feet will stay comfortable enough to carry you through every step of the journey from mountain trails to city streets.

Wart Season Is Here; This is What to Look Out For

As schools reopen across the country, health professionals and footcare experts are urging parents to be vigilant: February often marks the beginning of “wart season,” a time when children are more likely to develop warts due to increased interaction with classmates, sports fields, playgrounds, and communal areas.

Common warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), are benign skin growths that thrive in warm, moist environments. While these are usually harmless, they’re easily spread and can be stubborn to treat.

Warts are among the most common skin conditions in childhood, particularly affecting school-aged children and adolescents. Research indicates that viral warts accounted for around 11% of skin disorders among children evaluated in dermatology studies, making them one of the top-diagnosed skin issues alongside eczema, impetigo, and dermatitis.

“Warts affect an estimated 10–50% of children worldwide, particularly during the school years when exposure is higher and immune systems are still developing,” says Lynsey Hammond, MD at KROKO. “Skin warts can appear anywhere on the body, but parents most often spot them on hands, knees, elbows, and the soles of feet - called plantar warts - which can be very uncomfortable, especially for active kids”. She adds.

What to look out for:

“Children are particularly susceptible to the wart virus because their immune systems are still maturing,” explains Hammond. “Schools, sports activities, and shared spaces increase the chance of skin-to-skin or surface transmission of HPV. The more exposure, the more likely a child may develop warts,” she adds.

“It’s not just about treating them when they appear, it’s about preventing the spread of warts. It’s important to teach children the importance of a good routine. That, combined with early detection, can prevent them from spreading,” says Hammond.

Prevention Tips That Work:

  1. Feet: Encourage kids to wear flip-flops or sandals in public showers, around pools, and changerooms. This is also important for families who enjoy camping!
  2. Hands: Wash and thoroughly dry hands and feet daily, especially after sports practice or swimming.
  3. No sharing: Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes.
  4. No picking: Teach kids not to touch or pick at warts, which can spread the virus to other

When to See a Healthcare Professional:

In most cases, warts are not serious and respond to over-the-counter or at-home treatments such as Kroko’s WartFix. However, consult a healthcare provider if:

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Notes to editor:

About Kroko

A trusted South African footcare brand since 1936, Kroko offers a range of safe and effective treatments for common foot concerns, including warts, corns, cracked heels, and more. Their products are available nationwide at pharmacies.

The 3 Hidden Risks of Summer Sandals - and How to Prevent Them!

With summer around the corner, it’s tempting to swap out heavy, closed shoes for lightweight sandals and flip-flops. While these warm-weather favourites feel airy and comfortable, they can also cause unexpected foot problems if worn too often. From arch strain to painful calluses, your go-to summer shoes might be putting more pressure on your feet than you realise.

1.    Arch Strain

Many sandals and flip-flops are designed with thin soles and very little cushioning. Without proper support, the arches of the feet can take strain, putting pressure on the ball of the foot and even leading to long-term back pain. Over time, thickened skin and calluses may develop in response to the added pressure, leaving feet sore and uncomfortable.

2.    Blisters, Corns, and Calluses

Unlike closed shoes, sandals are usually worn without socks, leaving the skin exposed to rubbing from straps. This friction can lead to blisters and the build-up of hardened calluses. Sweat can make the problem worse, as feet slide against the sandal surface, creating additional irritation and pressure on sensitive areas.

3.    Heel Cracks

Sandals may leave heels unprotected and vulnerable to both pressure and the elements. The result? Dry, cracked skin that can deepen into painful fissures. When left untreated, heel cracks not only cause discomfort but may also interfere with a person’s natural gait and overall foot health.

Prevention and Treatment

The good news is that you don’t need to give up your summer sandals. With the right preventative care and at-home treatments, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing foot health. Choosing footwear that offers sufficient cushioning and arch support is the first step, but consistent footcare is just as important.

Kroko’s At-Home Footcare Solutions

Kroko has developed a range of effective products to target common summer sandal concerns:

Step Into Summer Comfortably

Summer should be about enjoying the outdoors, not battling blisters or cracked heels. By paying attention to footwear choices and using targeted footcare products, you can step confidently into the season while keeping your feet healthy and pain-free.

To learn more about Kroko products, please 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.

Myths vs Facts: Understanding Warts and How to Treat Them This Summer

Summer is a time for bare feet, pool days, and light clothing – but it’s also a time when warts tend to appear or spread more easily. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts thrive in warm, moist environments like swimming pools and public showers. Although they’re usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable, contagious, and sometimes difficult to treat – especially if surrounded by misinformation.

There’s no need to feel self-conscious or overwhelmed. With the right knowledge and care, warts can be treated effectively and affordably. Here’s a breakdown of the most common myths – and the facts that help clear them up.

Myth #1: Frogs and toads cause warts

Fact: Warts have nothing to do with frogs or toads. They’re caused by HPV, a group of viruses that enter the body through tiny cuts in the skin. Public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pool areas are typical breeding grounds for the virus due to moisture and shared surfaces.

Myth #2: Warts aren’t contagious

Fact: Warts spread through direct skin contact or by sharing personal items like razors, socks, shoes, or towels. Even touching or scratching your own wart can lead to it spreading to other parts of your body.

Myth #3: Warts are rare

Fact: Warts are incredibly common, affecting between 10% and 20% of people worldwide. They’re especially prevalent in children, teens, and those with weakened immune systems.

Myth #4: All warts are the same

Fact: There are several types of warts, and they don’t all look or behave the same. These include:

Myth #5: Warts will go away on their own

Fact: Some warts do disappear naturally over time, but others persist for months or even years. Even when they do fade, the virus can remain in the body, which means warts may return. Early treatment helps stop the spread and prevents discomfort.

Myth #6: Wart treatment is painful and causes scarring

Fact: Modern treatments are far gentler and more non-invasive than many realise. Over-the-counter solutions like Kroko WartFix, containing salicylic acid, are designed to be easy to use and effective. Regular application, along with proper foot hygiene, can clear most warts within a few weeks.

Myth #7: Home remedies always work

Fact: Natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar, garlic, or duct tape may be popular, but they often lack scientific backing. They can also damage healthy skin, especially when used incorrectly or on sensitive areas. It’s safer to opt for clinically proven treatments.

Myth #8: Warts can’t be prevented

Fact: Simple hygiene habits go a long way in preventing wart infections:

Myth #9: Wart treatment is expensive

Fact: While some treatments can be costly, there are effective and affordable options readily available at pharmacies. Kroko WartFix, for example, offers excellent value with a larger bottle size and proven effectiveness for treating common warts at home.

Summer is all about feeling confident, comfortable, and free – and skin concerns like warts shouldn’t get in the way. With reliable information and accessible solutions, treating and preventing warts can be a simple part of seasonal self-care.

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.

Celebrating Foot Health This International Podiatry Day

On 8 October, International Podiatry Day puts the spotlight on one of the body’s most hardworking yet often-overlooked features – our feet. This day is all about raising awareness around foot health, recognising the role of podiatrists, and appreciating the many healthcare professionals and workers who spend long hours on their feet every day.

Why Foot Health Deserves Attention

Healthy feet are essential for overall wellbeing. From supporting daily movement to signalling other potential health issues, our feet do much more than carry us around. Regular care at home, combined with professional podiatry check-ups when needed, helps prevent small issues from becoming serious conditions.

Fast and Fun Foot Facts!

Feet are fascinating – and full of surprises. Here are some fun facts to celebrate International Podiatry Day:

How Kroko’s products help tackle foot concerns

  1. Kroko Heel Balm – Enriched with urea and Vitamin D, this balm delivers lasting hydration for dry, cracked heels and can also be used on elbows.
  1. Kroko Foot Powder – Keeps feet and shoes dry, odour-free, and less prone to fungal infections, particularly during hot summer months.

Stepping Into Better Foot Health

International Podiatry Day is the perfect reminder to give your feet the care they deserve. Simple daily routines, the right products, and professional attention when needed can make all the difference in keeping feet healthy, comfortable, and ready to support you every step of the way.

5 Simple Foot Care Tips for the New Season

Spring is a season of renewal and a chance to refresh, reset, and get things back in shape after the cold winter months. But before turning your attention to decluttering cupboards or re-organising wardrobes, it’s time to look down and give your feet the attention they deserve. After months spent bundled up in socks and boots, feet often need a little extra care to prepare for sandals, sunshine, and outdoor adventures. Kick off your self-care routine with a spring footcare reset with these 5 simple foot care tips for the new season.

Tips to get your feet looking and feeling their best

1.    Soak and Exfoliate

Start with a warm foot soak to soften the skin and ease tension. Add Epsom salts to a basin of water and soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. This simple step not only helps relax tired muscles but also preps the feet for exfoliation. Use a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead skin and keep your soles smooth.

2.    Moisturise to Prevent Cracks

Winter can leave feet dry and cracked, especially around the heels. Reintroducing moisture is key to restoring softness. Apply a rich moisturising cream or petroleum jelly to your feet at night, and for best results, wear socks to lock in hydration while you sleep. If you’re dealing with cracked heels, consider a specially formulated product like Kroko Heel Balm to accelerate healing.

3.    Trim and Check Toenails

Feet that have been hidden away all winter may have missed a few pedicure appointments. Now’s the time to trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails and check for any signs of fungal infections. Sprinkling Kroko Foot Powder inside shoes and on feet helps absorb excess moisture and reduce bacterial growth – a simple step for maintaining healthy, happy toes.

4.    Choose Supportive Footwear

Spring means swapping heavy winter shoes for lighter styles, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing support. Wearing properly fitting, supportive shoes can prevent calluses, corns, and discomfort. If corns and calluses have already developed, over-the-counter treatments like Kroko Corn and Callus Remover, CornFix, or Corn Plasters offer fast and effective relief.

5.    Keep Your Feet Moving

Foot health isn’t just about skin and nails – movement matters too. Gentle stretching, pointing and flexing your toes, or massaging the soles with a tennis ball can improve circulation and flexibility. After long hours on your feet, elevate them for 15 to 20 minutes to reduce swelling. Even walking barefoot on safe, natural surfaces can have both physical and mental benefits.

Bonus Tip: Apply Sunscreen

Don’t forget sun protection! As the weather warms, it’s easy to overlook your feet when applying sunscreen. Whether you’re wearing sandals or going barefoot, make sure to protect the tops of your feet from UV damage.

Regular footcare is an easy way to boost overall wellbeing. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about feeling confident and comfortable as you step into the new season.

For more product tips and solutions, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Stay up to date by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or @kroko_footcare on Instagram.

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