The world of women’s cycling is currently embroiled in a bizarre scandal involving the alleged use of bra padding to increase the bust area of female competitors and modify airflow around the body. Known as “chest fairing,” the controversial practice can allegedly decrease drag and give competitors an unfair advantage during races.
According to experts, a smaller bust can favor the formation of a kind of “air pocket” at the level of the cyclist’s abdomen, which marginally increases the drag coefficient. For example, Bert Blocken, professor of aerodynamics at Heriot-Watt University (Scotland), told the British newspaper The Telegraph that chest fairing could provide a reduction of up to 3.6% in drag.
That small percentage might not sound like a lot, but in a sport where even the slightest edge can make a huge difference, chest fairing is considered an unfair advantage.
Originally reported last month by Dutch newspaper “WielerFlits,” the chest fairing trend caused quite a scandal on the women’s cycling circuit, and on August 4th, the cyclists taking part in this year’s Tour de France underwent an additional check of their clothing. It’s unclear if the checks uncovered the use of breast padding, but it’s clear that organizers aim to discourage the practice.
“Special attention will be given to compliance with article 1.3.032 of the UCI regulations, including non-essential elements and clothing or other items/accessories used by the cyclist (including, but not limited to, helmets, glasses, shoes or communication devices during the race) that may modify the cyclists’ morphology,” an official statement put out by the Tour de France read.
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