Vaseline Smooths the Way for Comrades Marathon Runners
The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is proud to announce Vaseline as the Official Skincare Provider of the world-renowned Comrades Marathon, taking place on Sunday 14 June 2026. This partnership ensures that participants in The Ultimate Human Race are supported by the original authority (OG) in skin protection – from the start in Durban to the finish in Pietermaritzburg.
OG of Skincare Meets Ultimate Human RaceFew names carry the legacy that Vaseline does. First developed in the 19th century, Vaseline Petroleum Jelly is the original skincare icon, trusted for generations to protect, heal, and prevent everyday skin concerns. Long before buzzwords and performance claims, runners were already relying on Vaseline petroleum jelly as a quiet but essential part of their race‑day kit. When it comes to chafing, friction and nipple protection, ultrarunners know that Vaseline is a must‑have!
The partnership brings together two endurance legends – the Comrades Marathon, with its unparalleled history and prestige, and Vaseline, the OG of skincare, proven through science, time, and real‑world performance. Locally, the collaboration integrates the award‑winning #VaselineVerified campaign into the event, bringing laboratory‑tested science to the road. By preventing friction and sealing in moisture, Vaseline Petroleum Jelly helps athletes stay focused on performance, not discomfort.
“We’re proud to partner with an iconic South African event like the Comrades Marathon,” says Navini Ramsamie, Vaseline Core Lead Southern Africa. “Vaseline has always stood for healthy skin for all. Through #VaselineVerified, we’re reinforcing that our science‑backed protection isn’t just trusted, it’s essential for endurance athletes who demand performance under pressure.”
Soothing Support, Every Step of the WayThe partnership comes to life ahead of race day at the Comrades Marathon Expo, where runners and supporters can experience the Vaseline Bedazzled Jar, and engage with brand ambassadors. Support continues beyond the finish line through post‑race skincare giveaways, protecting the runners’ skin recovery immediately after conquering the distance.
However, it’s along the gruelling route itself where Vaseline’s presence delivers the greatest impact. Recognising the intense physical strain of the Comrades Marathon, Vaseline has embedded its support directly into the race’s infrastructure. There will be physio stations along the route stocked with Vaseline products to help combat chafing and skin irritation, while dedicated Vaseline teams provide on‑route assistance and encouragement.
“The wellbeing of our runners is always our top priority, so having a heritage brand like Vaseline at our physio stations means the runners can rely on high‑quality, verified protection throughout the race,” says CMA General Manager Alain Dalais. “Runners know that once skin irritation sets in, every step becomes harder, so we’re confident that Vaseline will help keep our runners moving smoothly towards the finish line.”
With a shared commitment to endurance, resilience, and performance, Vaseline and the Comrades Marathon come together to prove that great performance starts with protected skin. For more information on race day activations, skincare tips, and #VaselineVerified hacks, visit their social pages: VaselineZA.
Comments