in 1994 jacobs was granted a patent on speedwyre, a technology that enhanced race suit performance. a “trip wire” formed by a narrow seam on the surface of the legs and arms streamlined the surrounding air flow, significantly reducing wind drag by up to 40% in laboratory tests. us ski team members wearing spyder suits enhanced with speedwyre captured gold, bronze and fifth place in world championships over the next two years, including two world downhill championships by hilary lindh and picabo street. the fis banned speedwyre in 1997, claiming that it gave skiers an unfair advantage.