Changing the suit circumference by +2 cm increased the lift area (𝐶𝑙𝐴) by ∼5% and the drag area (𝐶𝑑𝐴) by ∼4%. This was simulated to change the jump length by 5.8 m, which corresponds to an increase of 2.8 m/cm in suit tolerance, for a reference jump of 130 m
2.8 meters for every increase in a single centimeter of circumference.
What’s going on is that in the Olympics the difference between Gold and nothing can literally be centimeters.
If there is something an athlete in the Olympics can do to give themselves another 3 centimeters they will do it.
Every additional centimeter of circumference on your suit gives you almost ten extra feet of distance. It’s insane.
Aerodynamics are obviously very important in the sport, but I doubt it’s that extreme.
There are studies. Hence the multiple cheating scandals, because we know how small of a change can massively affect your flight. Here’s one:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12611860/
2.8 meters for every increase in a single centimeter of circumference.