“Techdoping” controversy in ski jumping
With the 2026 Winter Olympics starting today, we get to witness feats of human strength, speed and endurance across many disciplines. But how much does (or should) the sporting equipment aid these feats?
During the ski jumping world championships last year, the Norwegian team were accused of “techdoping” where their ski suits were deemed to give their competitors too much of an advantaged against competitors from other countries. Reinforced seems and extra material was illegally added to the crotches of the suits, which provided extra lift, allowing the athletes to travel further during the flight phase of their jumps. These players were suspended, and it has been ruled that such alterations are unfair as they could invalidate previous records across the board in the sport. It shows that sports equipment and technology is always evolving and becoming more sophisticated, however there are lines which are not to be crossed.
This study from Shijiazhuang Tiedao University in China looks at the physics behind ski jumping and how suit aerodynamics plays a role in the different phases of a jump. Studies such as this allow scientists to establish how to optimise the performance of sports suits and gear whilst adhering to the guidelines set within the sport in order to maintain integrity.
Please read, rate and review this paper here:
We hope to enjoy the ski jumping along with other winter sports in the coming weeks!