Ski jumping requires a daunting mix of courage and athleticism.
They had been wearing and competing in the same gear at the Beijing Games.
So what changed overnight?
Officials were concerned that the loose fit to their suits would have helped the jumpers gain better airtime.
Due to the sport’s aerodynamics, ski jumping has exacting rules about attire.
Longer-haired jumpers are also restricted from tucking their hair into the suits.
According toThe Guardian, Althaus wore her disqualified suit in an individual event at the Beijing Games.
At the mixed team event, Stroem claimed officials had measured her suit differently than previous events.
She also believedimproper eatingdue to the imposed quarantine restrictions may have led to a change in fit.
Women’s ski jumpsuits have come under criticism before.
Previously, women’s suits were required to have added hip panels.
The International Ski Federation claimed the panels created a better fit.
The hip panel rule was removed in 2020 (perNPR).
