);
};
// =====================================================================
// HERO COUNTER — "Every 30 Seconds" variant (landing page)
// =====================================================================
const HeroCounter = ({ onBuy }) => {
// One lower limb is lost to diabetes roughly every 30 seconds (IDF).
// Seed the counter with the real year-to-date total since 1 Jan 2026,
// then let it tick up live so visitors see an actual, moving figure.
const START_2026 = Date.UTC(2026, 0, 1, 0, 0, 0);
const calc = () => Math.max(0, Math.floor((Date.now() - START_2026) / 30000));
const [legs, setLegs] = React.useState(calc);
const [pulse, setPulse] = React.useState(true);
React.useEffect(() => {
const tick = setInterval(() => {
setLegs(calc());
setPulse(p => !p);
}, 1000);
return () => clearInterval(tick);
}, []);
return (
Live · right now, across the world
{legs.toLocaleString("en-US")}
legs lost to diabetes in 2026
— and counting, every 30 seconds.
That's the running total since 1 January 2026. Most begin with damage a neuropathic
foot can't feel — a seam, a pressure point, a pebble that becomes an ulcer before
anyone notices.
Source · International Diabetes Federation · IWGDF Guidelines
★★★★★
{" "}Claimable on medical aid · NAPPI-coded · PMB listed
The intervention
A shoe that protects.
Medical-grade. Designed, tested and certified
in South Africa for diabetic foot care.
Many medical aids reimburse the cost — we provide a NAPPI-coded invoice for your claim.
Class A Medical Device · NAPPI-coded · claimable on medical aid
);
};
const Hero = ({ onBuy }) => (
For Diabetes & Neuropathy
Made for movement.Built for confidence.Engineered for purpose.
Airstep is purpose-built to protect feet with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy
— the seam-free interior, triple-layer pressure-offloading insole, and FreeStride™
last work together to prevent the silent injuries that lead to ulcers, infection, and amputation.
Pressure offloading away from ulcer-prone metatarsal heads
Seam-free interior — critical when nerve damage masks pain
Generous fit up to 4E, extra depth, orthotic-ready
);
// =====================================================================
// DIABETES CRISIS — the big problem (lead with this on the landing page)
// =====================================================================
const DiabetesCrisis = () => (
The hidden crisis
Diabetes is taking limbs. Mostly without warning.
Peripheral neuropathy quietly switches off the warning system in your feet.
A pressure point you can't feel, a seam you can't notice, a friction blister
you never registered — that's how nearly every diabetic amputation begins.
30seconds
Somewhere in the world, a lower limb is amputated due to diabetes every 30 seconds.
More than a million people lose a leg or foot to diabetes each year — and the figures are rising.
International Diabetes Federation · IWGDF Guidelines
1 in 4
people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime.
85%
of diabetes-related amputations are preceded by a foot ulcer.
~50%
five-year mortality after a major diabetic amputation — worse than most cancers.
How it actually happens — the silent progression
01
Neuropathy
Nerve damage in the foot dulls or eliminates pain, temperature, and pressure feedback.
02
Silent injury
A normal shoe seam, a pebble, or a small blister causes damage you cannot feel.
03
Ulcer
The injury breaks the skin. Poor circulation slows healing. Infection sets in.
04
Amputation
Tissue death forces surgical removal — often the toe, foot, or lower leg.
By the time it hurts, it's already serious.
Almost every step in that chain begins where a regular shoe presses, rubs, or pinches a foot that can't feel it.
In South Africa
4.2M+
South African adults living with diabetes today.
≈50%
of major lower-limb amputations in SA public hospitals are diabetes-related.
);
const DiabetesFocus = () => (
The answer
This is why we built Airstep.
Airstep is engineered to address the weak points in that chain. Even pressure
distribution. A seam-free, friction-protected interior. Generous width and depth
for compromised feet. A geometry that supports circulation. The first medical-grade
shoe built and certified in South Africa for diabetic foot protection.
Even plantar pressure
FreeStride™ last + triple-layer insole distributes load away from ulcer-prone metatarsal heads.
Friction-free, seam-free interior
Reversed lining, padded collar, and double-walled eyelets prevent the shear that triggers ulceration in neuropathic feet.
Circulation & sensation support
Rocker geometry & flexion zones activate the foot and calf venous pumps — critical when vascular health is compromised.
Endorsed by
Diabetes SADiabetes South Africa
Diabetes AlliancePatient advocacy
SweetlifeDiabetes community
SAMEDSA Medical Tech Industry
Important: Airstep is a Class A Medical Device intended to protect
and support the foot. It is not a replacement for prescribed medication,
insulin, or any treatment plan recommended by your doctor, podiatrist, or
endocrinologist. Always continue your prescribed care — Airstep is designed
to work alongside it, not in place of it.
);
// =====================================================================
// NEWLY DIAGNOSED — foot-care starter routine for the just-diagnosed
// =====================================================================
const NewlyDiagnosed = () => {
const steps = [
{
n: "01",
t: "Check your feet every day",
b: "Look over the tops, soles, heels and between the toes for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling. Use a mirror or ask someone to help.",
},
{
n: "02",
t: "Wash and dry with care",
b: "Wash daily in warm — never hot — water, pat dry, and dry carefully between the toes. Moisturise the skin, but not between the toes.",
},
{
n: "03",
t: "Never go barefoot",
b: "Indoors or out, always keep your feet covered. A pebble, a tack or a hot surface you can't feel can break the skin before you notice.",
},
{
n: "04",
t: "Wear protective footwear",
b: "A deep, wide toe box, full coverage, cushioned soles and a seam-free interior. This is exactly what Airstep is built to give you.",
airstep: true,
},
{
n: "05",
t: "Book a foot screening",
b: "Even if your feet feel fine, ask for a baseline foot exam. Nerve or vessel damage can already be present at diagnosis without any symptoms.",
},
{
n: "06",
t: "Manage the basics",
b: "Keep blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol within your target range. Good control protects the nerves and circulation your feet depend on.",
},
];
return (
Just diagnosed?
A diagnosis is a turning point — start with your feet.
A new diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but your feet are one of the
easiest places to protect from day one. Even when they feel completely normal,
nerve and circulation changes can begin silently — so the habits you build
now matter far more than most people realise.
Guidance here is adapted from the American Diabetes Association and
international foot-care standards. It's a starting point, not a care plan — always
follow the routine set by your doctor, podiatrist or diabetes team. Airstep is designed
to support that plan, never to replace it.
);
};
const Problem = () => {
const groups = [
{
Ic: Icon.shield,
tag: "Arthritis & Joint Pain",
body: "Rocker sole absorbs impact and reduces load on inflamed joints — making movement less painful."
},
{
Ic: Icon.refresh,
tag: "Post-Surgery & Rehabilitation",
body: "Extra depth and wide fit comfortably accommodates swelling, dressings, and prescribed orthotics."
},
{
Ic: Icon.feather,
tag: "Plantar Fat Pad Atrophy",
body: "Supplementary triple-layer cushioning compensates for diminished natural padding under the foot."
},
{
Ic: Icon.cloud,
tag: "Sensitive & Tired Feet",
body: "For anyone on their feet for hours — pressure distribution reduces fatigue, swelling, and end-of-day pain."
},
];
return (
Also engineered for
Beyond diabetes — built for any foot that needs more.
Airstep is indicated for anyone whose feet need more support, space, and
protection — from arthritic joints to post-surgical recovery, structural
deformities, and the natural wear of standing all day.
{groups.map((g, i) => (
{g.tag}
{g.body}
))}
);
};
const MadeForMovement = () => {
const fixes = [
{
n: "01",
fault: "Impaired blood flow",
faultBody: "Tight uppers and shallow toe boxes restrict circulation — dangerous for diabetic and neuropathic feet.",
fix: "Generous 2E–4E wide last with extra depth",
fixBody: "Spacious volumetric fit lets feet sit naturally; uncompromised blood flow.",
},
{
n: "02",
fault: "Narrow, tight fit",
faultBody: "Standard lasts squeeze bunions, hammer toes, and swollen forefeet — every step hurts.",
fix: "Anatomical FreeStride™ last",
fixBody: "Built around the actual shape of the human foot, not a fashion silhouette.",
},
{
n: "03",
fault: "Friction → blisters, ulcers, corns",
faultBody: "Internal seams and harsh stitching abrade insensate skin without warning.",
fix: "Seam-free interior · reversed lining",
fixBody: "Inside-out stitching, padded collar, double-walled eyelets. Nothing rubs.",
},
{
n: "04",
fault: "Incorrect flex",
faultBody: "Shoes that bend in the middle (not at the toes) fight the foot's natural mechanics.",
fix: "55° forefoot flexion · engineered toe spring",
fixBody: "Flex point aligns with the metatarsal joints. The shoe moves with you.",
},
{
n: "05",
fault: "Poor plantar pressure distribution",
faultBody: "Hot spots under the metatarsals are the #1 precursor to diabetic foot ulcers.",
fix: "Triple-layer pressure-offloading insole",
fixBody: "German pedography lab: peak plantar pressure 29 N/cm² — well within clinical tolerance.",
},
{
n: "06",
fault: "Inadvisable heel-to-toe drop",
faultBody: "High heel drops shift weight forward, overloading the forefoot and destabilising gait.",
fix: "Minimal drop · rocker sole · TPU stabiliser",
fixBody: "Even weight distribution, smooth roll-through, anti-twist protection at every step.",
},
];
return (
Made for Movement
What conventional shoes get wrong, and how we fix each one.
Six structural faults common to mass-market footwear — and the
specific engineering choices that correct them.
{fixes.map((f) => (
{f.n}
The fault
{f.fault}
{f.faultBody}
Airstep fix
{f.fix}
{f.fixBody}
))}
);
};
const Anatomy = () => {
const specs = [
{ spec: "Volumetric Fit", v: "Up to 4E width", b: "Accommodates wider feet and structural deformities without compression." },
{ spec: "Enhanced Depth", v: "Built-in extra depth", b: "Protects vulnerable dorsal toe surfaces; accepts prescription orthotics." },
{ spec: "Insole System", v: "Triple-layer removable", b: "Moulded polyurethane top layer over two open-cell foam densities." },
{ spec: "Internal Construction", v: "Reversed lining · Strobel", b: "Padded tongue, double-walled eyelets; minimal seams to prevent friction." },
{ spec: "Gait Mechanics", v: "55° forefoot flexion", b: "Engineered toe spring ensures flex matches the metatarsal joints." },
{ spec: "Stability", v: "Minimal heel-to-toe drop", b: "Rubber outsole optimises weight distribution and reduces fall risk." },
{ spec: "Lining", v: "Moisture-wicking", b: "Maintains a healthy foot microclimate all day — critical for diabetic skin." },
{ spec: "Upper Material", v: "ISO-certified cow leather", b: "Genuine leather upper, manufactured in South Africa to Class A standards." },
];
return (
FreeStride™ Technology
Built for performance. Engineered for outcomes.
The FreeStride™ anatomical last is a registered design based on
podiatric research and orthopaedic principles — reduced in-flare,
anatomically correct, and tested by pedography in a German laboratory.
Performance featureSpecificationClinical benefit
{specs.map((s, i) => (
{s.spec}
{s.v}
{s.b}
))}
);
};
const Features = () => {
const features = [
{ Ic: Icon.layers, t: "Pressure Offloading", b: "Dual-density EVA absorbs impact and redistributes plantar pressure away from ulcer-prone sites." },
{ Ic: Icon.width, t: "Wide Toe Box", b: "Eliminates compression on bunions, hammer toes, and swollen forefoot. Up to 4E width." },
{ Ic: Icon.feather, t: "Seam-Free Interior", b: "Inside-out stitching prevents friction injuries on neuropathic and fragile skin." },
{ Ic: Icon.cloud, t: "Breathable Lining", b: "Moisture-wicking lining maintains a healthy foot environment all day." },
{ Ic: Icon.refresh, t: "Rocker Sole", b: "Supports comfy gait — particularly helpful for arthritic patients." },
{ Ic: Icon.shield, t: "Genuine Cow Leather", b: "ISO-certified upper, manufactured in South Africa to Class A Medical Device standards." },
];
return (
Comfort benefits
Built around your well-being.
Every detail is engineered to restore independence, reduce risk, and uplift daily living. Rooted in medical science, made in South Africa, driven by care.
The product of over 50 years combined
podiatry and master shoemaking.
Many people suffer from sensitive feet — whether from arthritis,
thinning of the plantar fat pad, diabetes, or simply long hours on
their feet. Conventional athleisure shoes rely on thin foam inners,
and removing those liners leaves no room for a prescription orthotic.
What was missing from the market was a generous-fitting athleisure shoe
with extra depth that combined the best of medical-grade footwear with
a sporty look, at an affordable price. Airstep is the South African
answer to that gap.
Last dimensions, shaping, and axial alignment were developed through
local podiatric research. In-shoe pressure testing — followed
by years of prototype wear-trialling by adult volunteers living with
diabetes — confirmed that Airstep reduces plantar shear stress
and vertical pressure, and promotes both venous and arterial circulation
through activation of the foot and calf muscle venous pumps.
Airstep is approved by Telmo Applied Science — an
international research group of podiatrists and scientists who contribute
to performance standards in footwear design — registered on the
global GMDN medical device register, and NAPPI-coded in South Africa.
3°
In-flare angle
vs the industry-standard 6° — relieves pressure on the 4th and 5th toes
50+ yrs
Combined expertise
Podiatric research paired with master shoemaker experience
Made in Cape Town
Since 2025
Designed, tested, and manufactured locally to medical-device standards
);
const Reviews = () => {
const reviews = [
{
tag: "Clinical perspective",
body: "As a podiatry academic with a history of plantar fasciitis, I approached Airstep with a critical, evidence-based perspective. During a recent trip to the United Kingdom, I walked approximately 20 km per day over several consecutive days while wearing Airstep shoes — without any orthotic support. Notably, I experienced no plantar fasciitis symptoms throughout this period.",
name: "Ms. Yaasirah Mohomed Choonara",
role: "MHS (Podiatry) · University of Johannesburg",
},
{
tag: "Lived experience",
body: "I've been wearing Airstep daily since October 2025. As someone living with Type 1 diabetes and a lower limb amputation, balance and mobility are constant challenges — and Airstep has made a real difference. Within the first few weeks, I noticed a tingling sensation in my left foot, which I believe was due to improved pressure distribution. Over time, it has felt as though I've regained some sensation in that foot.",
name: "Gavin van Wyk",
role: "Type 1 Diabetes · Amputee · SA Diabetes Advocate",
},
{
tag: "Type 1 Diabetes · Neuropathy",
body: "Since starting to use the Airstep, it has been an absolutely amazing journey. I quit smoking, changed my diet, and now I successfully do 20,000 steps a day in these shoes. I no longer take pain medication, and I sleep like a baby — nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. It's incredible how a shoe has completely changed my life.",
name: "Kresan Moodley",
role: "Type 1 Diabetic · Neuropathy · Previously waking nightly with severe leg pain · Now 20,000 steps/day",
},
{
tag: "Podiatrist Endorsement",
body: "Airstep reflects a deep understanding of foot mechanics, comfort, and support. The combination of breathable materials, triple layer insoles, wider toebox and rocker sole makes this shoe ideal for both everyday wear or long hours on your feet. Every element is designed to promote better foot health. It's more than footwear — it's podiatric science you can feel in every step.",
name: "Humaira Ismail",
role: "Podiatrist · Dunkeld Medical & Dental Centre, Randburg",
},
{
tag: "Practice Endorsement",
body: "We prescribe Airstep shoes for their superior comfort, cushioning, and clinical support. Designed to enhance pressure offloading and reduce risk, they are particularly well-suited for diabetic patients. A trusted choice for protecting foot health while maintaining everyday comfort.",
name: "Podiatry Africa",
role: "Gaborone, Botswana · podiatryafrica.com",
},
];
return (
Built on podiatric research and real-world wear testing, Airstep is engineered
specifically for diabetic, neuropathic, arthritic, and sensitive feet —
not adapted from a regular sneaker last.
Shoe diabetic Airstep cloud blue lace-up, {r.size.replace("UK ", "size ")}
))}
Provide the relevant NAPPI code, GMDN 31041, and MediKredit Z20AH07AA02 to your
medical scheme. A tax invoice is emailed with every order — see a sample invoice & claim pack, or contact info@diabeticshoes.co.za for additional documentation.
Reimbursement is not guaranteed. Medical schemes, plans and benefit options differ — some
reimburse Airstep in full, some in part, and some not at all, depending on plan rules, available
benefits and prescription. Confirm cover with the patient's scheme before ordering. Tradeshoe (Pty)
Ltd t/a Airstep cannot be held liable for any claim that is declined, short-paid or reversed.
)}
);
};
const FAQ = () => {
const [open, setOpen] = React.useState(0);
const items = [
{ q: "Who is Airstep for?",
a: "Airstep is built for anyone who needs serious foot protection. While it was engineered to medical-device standards to help prevent diabetic foot ulcers and protect feet with reduced sensation, the same clinical features benefit people living with arthritis, post-surgical recovery, structural deformities (bunions, hammer toes, claw toes), plantar fat pad atrophy, plantar fasciitis, oedema, neuropathy from any cause, and anyone on their feet for long hours. It is endorsed by Diabetes SA, Diabetes Alliance, and Sweetlife." },
{ q: "Will my medical aid cover the cost?",
a: "Airstep is NAPPI-coded and listed as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) under SARS Circular 13 of 2024. Most South African medical aid schemes can therefore reimburse the cost — ask your healthcare provider or scheme to confirm what applies to your plan. The NAPPI price is R3,200 incl. VAT. We email a NAPPI invoice with every order to make claims simple. Please note: reimbursement is never guaranteed. Schemes, plans and benefit options differ — some pay in full, some in part, and some not at all, depending on your plan rules, available benefits and whether a prescription is provided. Always confirm cover with your scheme before ordering. Tradeshoe (Pty) Ltd t/a Airstep cannot be held liable for any claim that is declined, short-paid or reversed." },
{ q: "Is Airstep registered as a medical device?",
a: "Yes. Airstep is a Class A Medical Device with Global Medical Device Numbering (GMDN) registration, NAPPI-coded in South Africa, and a member of the South African Medical Technology Industry Association (SAMED). It has been tested and approved by Telmo Applied Science, an independent footwear assessment body." },
{ q: "What sizes are available? Can I order mixed-size pairs?",
a: "Airstep is built on a generous wide-fitting last in sizes UK 2 to 13, accommodating feet up to 4E width. Mixed-size pairs are available on request for patients with significantly different left/right foot sizes — email info@diabeticshoes.co.za to arrange." },
{ q: "What styles and colours are available?",
a: "Currently the Airstep Trainer ships in unisex Midnight Navy lace-up at the NAPPI price of R3,200 incl. VAT. Additional colourways are arriving in Q2 2027, with a velcro-fastening variant to follow for patients who prefer or require easier closures." },
{ q: "Can I wear my own prescribed orthotic?",
a: "Yes. The triple-layer factory insole pops out cleanly to make room for your custom orthotic, and the shoe has extra depth specifically to accommodate orthotics and prosthetics without crowding the toe box." },
{ q: "What is the shoe made of?",
a: "Genuine ISO-certified cow leather upper, dual-density EVA midsole with a lightweight Phylon component, moisture-wicking lining, seam-free interior, TPU stabiliser for anti-twist protection, and a slip-resistant rubber outsole. Manufactured in South Africa." },
{ q: "I'm a healthcare professional — can I order at wholesale pricing?",
a: "Yes. Podiatrists, endocrinologists, orthotists, and accredited distributors can order directly from Airstep at wholesale pricing. Apply online to open a wholesale account using the link in the 'For healthcare professionals' section, or register your practice at info@diabeticshoes.co.za or call 074 906 0388." },
{ q: "What if Airstep doesn't fit?",
a: "If your Airsteps don't fit correctly, contact us within 7 days of delivery and we'll arrange a size exchange. Because Airstep is a Class A Medical Device, worn pairs cannot be resold — please try them indoors on a clean surface before deciding. For exchange queries, email info@diabeticshoes.co.za." },
];
return (
Everything flows from the FreeStride™ last & fit system.
Five engineering systems work together to distribute plantar pressure
evenly and reduce friction — mitigating the primary causes of
diabetic foot ulcers and everyday foot discomfort.
{pillars.map((p) => (
{p.n}
{p.t}
{p.pts.map((pt, i) => (
{pt}
))}
))}
);
};
const EngineeredForPurpose = () => {
const items = [
{ t: "3° in-flare angle", b: "Versus the conventional 6° last — less pressure on the 4th and 5th toes." },
{ t: "Minimal heel-to-toe drop", b: "Optimised weight distribution for a stable, walking-friendly gait." },
{ t: "Strobel stitching", b: "Flexible construction that moves naturally with the foot." },
{ t: "Reversed lining", b: "Built to minimise internal seams against vulnerable skin." },
{ t: "Enhanced depth", b: "Protects vulnerable toe tops and makes room for orthotics." },
{ t: "Forefoot flexion range", b: "Anatomical flex that supports healthy gait dynamics." },
{ t: "Engineered toe-spring", b: "Promotes natural propulsion through every step." },
{ t: "Triple-layer insoles", b: "Removable layers manage shear and plantar pressure." },
{ t: "2E–4E generous width", b: "Accommodates orthotics, prosthetics and wide feet." },
{ t: "Double-walled eyelets", b: "Protect the dorsal surfaces of the foot." },
{ t: "Slip-resistant outsole", b: "Confident traction on everyday surfaces." },
{ t: "Padded tongue & laces", b: "Comfort details that reduce pressure points." },
];
return (
Engineered for purpose
Twelve deliberate decisions.
Every measurable choice in the Airstep last serves a clinical purpose —
the difference between a shoe that merely fits and one that protects.
{items.map((it, i) => (
{String(i + 1).padStart(2, "0")}
{it.t}
{it.b}
))}
);
};
// ── Gout section ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────
const GOUT_FEATURES = [
{
n: "01",
title: "Wide, deep toe box",
body: "The FreeStride™ last is podiatric-informed — wider across the forefoot and higher at the bridge than standard footwear. If a gout flare hits your big toe joint, your foot has room to swell without the shoe compressing it.",
},
{
n: "02",
title: "Triple-layer footbed",
body: "An impact-absorbing base, orthotic-grade mid-layer, and soft top surface work together to cushion the metatarsophalangeal joint — the joint most commonly struck by gout. The footbed is fully removable if you need to fit a custom orthotic.",
},
{
n: "03",
title: "Seam-free inner lining",
body: "Airstep is stitched inside-out so there are no internal seams to press against an inflamed joint. The breathable mesh upper reduces heat build-up — important, because warmth accelerates uric-acid crystal formation.",
},
{
n: "04",
title: "ISO-certified cow suede upper",
body: "Soft, breathable and durable — suede stretches with wear and doesn't stiffen after washing. Unlike synthetic materials, it won't create localised pressure points as the shoe moulds to your foot over time.",
},
];
const GoutSection = () => (
Gout & joint conditions
Built for feet that can't afford a bad shoe.
Gout attacks without warning — and the wrong shoe can turn a flare into a week of immobility.
The best shoe for gout offers three things: room to swell, cushioning at the joint, and nothing
inside the shoe pressing back. Airstep was designed with all three as non-negotiables.
{GOUT_FEATURES.map((f) => (
{f.n}
{f.title}
{f.body}
))}
Already have custom orthotics? Every Airstep comes with a removable
triple-layer footbed — swap it out and your orthotics drop straight in. The extra-depth
last is designed to accommodate them without compressing the toe box.
