Description The Ventus Speedsuit is a distance-specific track and field suit designed for the hot conditions anticipated at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. In modern track and field, speedsuits have become a standard uniform option, often recognized as form-fitting, one-piece uniforms. The Ventus Speedsuit incorporates aerodynamic technology to reduce drag while simultaneously enhancing thermoregulation through evaporative cooling.
Specifically, the Ventus Speedsuit features 3D-printed TPU vortex generators, which function like golf ball dimples, disrupting airflow around the body to reduce drag. Additionally, each Aeroblade includes a ventilation hole just upwind of the blade. This design helps to harnesses turbulent airflow caused by the blade, directing airflow onto the skin to enhance cooling. Thusly the blades not only cut drag but also act like small hands held out of a car window, pushing air onto the skin for added cooling.
By balancing aerodynamics and cooling, the Ventus Speedsuit is optimized for fast performances in the hot conditions of the LA 28 Olympics, ensuring athletes maximize speed without overheating.
Innovation The Ventus speedsuit features 3D-printed TPU vortex generators, similar to golf ball dimples, that reduce drag. First developed by Nike for the 2016 Rio Olympics, this technology emerged from 1,540 wind tunnel tests led by aerodynamicist Len Brownlie. Researchers found a chevron-shaped blade facing downwind minimized drag most effectively. Nike’s Aeroblade suits reduce drag by 4%, improving performance by 0.186%—a margin that can decide medals.
However, optimizing aerodynamics requires greater skin coverage, which raises body temperatures and leads to performance loss. A 2016 study found middle- and long-distance races above 77°F reduces elite middle- and long-distance performance by 0.550%.
The challenge, then, is balancing aerodynamics and thermoregulation to maximize performance in hot conditions.
To address this, I modified Nike’s Aeroblade design by removing the bottom platform, increasing blade width, and placing a ventilation hole just upwind of the blades. This design leverages turbulence, directing airflow onto skin to increase evaporative cooling. The blades reduce drag while acting like a hand held out a car window, pushing air onto skin.
Product Detail The Ventus is a slip-in speed suit crafted from a stretch poly-elastane woven fabric, featuring full shoulder-to-leg side panels. The suit’s design incorporates a double raglan construction and a curved lower seam line to balance the silhouette while accentuating the side panels and shoulders, which feature strategically placed contrasting white blades designed to enhance aerodynamics and thermoregulation.
For performance and comfort, the Ventus Speedsuit includes a reinforced modesty panel for support, along with a gusseted inseam to reduce chafing and maximize comfort. The back features cascading laser-cut perforations, increasing the suit’s breathability. To maintain a sleek aesthetic, all hems are finished with heat bonding for a seamless look.
With respect to color, the Ventus Speedsuit pays homage to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, drawing inspiration from the striking all-red Kappa uniforms worn during these games. Red—a color tied to Los Angeles and Hollywood—symbolizes ambition, passion, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Ultimately, the design seeks to create a visual and emotional connection between the Hollywood Dream and the Olympic Dream.
Specification While this prototype was specifically designed for men's middle- and long-distance events, the technology used in this suit can be applied to a wide range of tight-fitting track and field garments for both men and women. This includes full-length and half-length tights, women's tops, arm and leg sleeves, and even kinesio-style tape. The latter could be applied directly to the arms and legs to reduce drag on smaller, fast-moving parts of the body without hindering mobility. Additionally, it could enhance thermoregulation by providing aerodynamic benefits with minimal skin coverage.
