Norwegian speed skater Ragne Wiklund is set to chase Olympic gold in a suit that has been kept secret until the last minute. This suit incorporates 3D-printed stripes and rubber that have been strategically added to enhance performance on the ice. The refinement of this suit is the result of collaboration with Olympiatoppen, the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and has involved contributions from other sports, including alpine skiing and cycling. Several top skaters have spent hours in a wind tunnel assessing how these modifications affect their speed and aerodynamics.

The significance of these changes is underscored by comments from Petter Andersen, the sports chief who noted that the design of the suit allows the air to flow better around the legs, which are crucial for improving the overall aerodynamics of a skater's performance. The research and development of these racing suits have been conducted over the past two years, with production beginning in the Netherlands just a few months before the Olympics. The secrecy surrounding the suit was strategically planned to prevent competitors from gaining any advantage prior to the games.

This story highlights an important aspect of competitive sports where even minor enhancements can lead to significant advantages at the highest levels of competition. By actively innovating and testing the gear used by their top athletes, Norway seeks to maximize their chances of success at the Winter Olympics, showcasing how technology and scientific research are increasingly integrated into sports performance.