This likely happens in every sport that relies on gear, apparel, or some level of mechanical variable. Swimming -> buoyant suits; Basketball -> Lighter, stiffe

This likely happens in every sport that relies on gear, apparel, or some level of mechanical variable. Swimming -> buoyant suits; Basketball -> Lighter, stiffer shoes; Soccer -> Cleats, Uniforms; Running -> Carbon fiber plates; Sports that depend on some mechanical variable seem to trend toward improving/tuning that variable in whatever ways allowed by that sport (car/bike/boat racing).