Thanks to supercomputers, the subfield of physics that focuses on the movement of water, air, or gasses called computational fluid dynamics is indispensable to the design of anything that moves even cars, bicycles, swimsuits, oars, helmets and even human athletes. Using 3-D scanners, computers, fluid dynamics and visualization software, engineers can locate areas on the skin that have more or less friction. Using this information engineers can design a suit that positions low-friction fabric in the right locations to reduce drag.
In the last five years aerodynamic technology has become very prevalent in the development of gear and clothing for speed-based sports like competitive cycling. Bikers in competitive cycling use 90% of their power to overcome wind and even a 5% improvement in drag can make a huge difference.
