Science is helping set new records but still we are far behind the quickest and strongest animals on the planet. Engineers have began turning to nature for inspiration, this is an approach known as Biomimetics.
During the 2008 Olympics the sharkskin inspired swimsuit worn by Micheal Phelps received a lot of attention. Sharkskin is made up of countless overlapping scales known as dermal denticles or little skin teeth. The denticles have grooves that align with water flow and disrupt the formation of eddies (turbulent swirls of slower water) allowing the water to pass by faster.
Scientists have developed a material that increases adhesive strength while in motion. Just like the feet of a gecko. So keep your eyes open for gecko-inspired nonskid grip and climbing shoes!
Insight Replay has a great interest in the intersection between technology and athletic performance.
