Athletes Can Say Goodbye to Corns and Calluses with These Footcare Tips

Corns and calluses are some of the most common foot complaints, often resulting in pain and discomfort that interferes with daily mobility. Athletes tend to experience them more than most, and while not medically serious, they can become increasingly painful if left untreated – creating an unnecessary hurdle when training and competing.

“South Africans live very active, outdoor lifestyles, however, repeated sporting activity can lead to the formation of corns and calluses,” explained Lynsey Hammond, MD for Kroko, a leading South African footcare brand. “Corns and calluses are a natural way for the body to protect itself from repeated friction, but it’s best to treat them early with over-the-counter medication as soon as they appear.”

What Are Corns and Calluses?

Calluses typically form on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet or palms, while corns are smaller, more concentrated areas of thickened skin, often forming on toes or between them. Though common, these can be painful and affect performance if untreated.

High-Risk Sports for Corns and Calluses

Athletes and active individuals are prone to corns and calluses when they engage in high-impact sports. Among these are:

• Running and Hiking: The constant impact on the heel and ball of the foot during running or trail hikes can lead to thickened skin areas.

• Basketball and Dancing: In both these sporting codes, the constant pivoting and quick direction changes can cause intense friction on pressure points.

•  High-Impact Workouts: Exercises like box jumps, plyometrics, and stair climbing place strain the ball of the foot, leading to corns.

•  Racquet Sports: Any sports that involve gripping racquets, such as tennis, squash, or Padel can lead to calluses on fingers and palms.

• Golf: Similar to racquet sports, golfers also experience calluses on their fingers and palms due to gripping golf clubs.

• Gymnastics and Weightlifting: Continuous bar work and weight gripping contribute to hardened skin on the hands.

Preventing Corns and Calluses in Sport

1.       Get the Right Shoes

Tight or poorly fitted shoes are a top cause of corns. Athletes should wear shoes that offer enough room to prevent pinching and rubbing, especially during high-impact activities.

2.       Get the Right Size

Shoe sizes can vary by brand, so it’s important to measure feet before buying new footwear. Leave about half an inch of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Runners can go up a full size for better comfort. It’s also best to shop in the late afternoon or evening when feet are most swollen.

3.       Replace Worn-Out Shoes

Athletic shoes lose their protective function over time. Worn soles reduce shock absorption, and damaged inner linings increase friction, both of which can lead to painful corns or calluses. Replace sports shoes regularly, especially during frequent training sessions.

4.       Never Skip the Socks

Socks act as a crucial buffer, preventing skin-on-shoe friction during sport. Invest in high-quality athletic socks that offer cushioning and moisture control.

Treating Corns and Calluses

Kroko’s range of corn and callus care solutions is specifically formulated for effective, at-home relief, making them ideal for active lifestyles.

1.       Kroko Corn and Callus Remover

First formulated in the 1930s, this iconic ointment with salicylic acid is still going strong. Pain-free and simple to use, it’s applied directly to the affected area and covered with a plaster. Reapplied every two days, the corn or callus will soften and fall off naturally.

2.       Kroko Corn Protectors

For athletes with sensitive skin or those needing instant relief during training, Kroko offers non-medicated foam-ring protectors that cushion the corn or callus and reduce friction and pressure, making movement more comfortable.

3.       Kroko Medicated Corn Plasters

Combining treatment and protection, these medicated plasters include the powerful Kroko Corn and Callus Remover with a soft foam ring. Ideal for interdigital corns and even warts, they stay in place and act fast, perfect for athletic endeavours.

4.       Kroko CornFix

This liquid solution offers targeted application for hard-to-reach corns and calluses caused by sports. Packaged with an applicator and six foam-ring plasters, CornFix softens and exfoliates thickened skin with ease.

“Active individuals don’t need added obstacles like painful corns or calluses,” says Hammond. “Our product range helps athletes stay focused on their goals, with trusted relief that’s simple, effective, and time-tested.”

For more information, visit www.kroko.co.za or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.