THE COURSE Long-track heats involve two skaters who switch lanes every lap. Athletes race twice (starting once from each lane) and their times are added together. Klap skates allow a wider stride that keeps the blade on the ice longer and helps skaters negotiated the course’s tight curves.
THE SKATE The klap mechanism consists of a sharp, thin blade and an upper plate that attaches to a standard skate boot. There are different designs, but most have a hinge at the toe and a high-tension spring.
The blades are honed and squared so they bit on the ice.
THE STRIDE Speed skating requires sideways strides to move the athlete forward. Longer klap-skate strides end with a strong backward push.
The normal stride causes the blade to leave the ice before leg extension is complete.
The klap stride allows the foot to roll over naturally, generating a stronger push.
SOURCES: NAOC, GERARD KEMKERS, U.S. INTERNATIONAL SPEEDSKATING ASSOCIATION. RESEARCH BY VILL VOURVOULIAS
