Wendl and Arlt clocked a combined 1min 23.695sec in tricky conditions to move to within ten points of the defending World Cup champions.

The German pair completed their two runs 0.117sec faster than Latvia's Andris Sics and Juris Sics, who won on home soil in Sigulda last week.

Robin Geueke and David Gamm of Germany finished third to seal their best result of the season.

"We noticed in the final practice session that our equipment works well in these weather conditions," said Wendl.

"We laid a solid foundation with our start time on the first run. 

"That shows we trained well over the summer. 

"We are regaining our previous form now. 

"It is nearly time for the World Championships and we are looking forward to them."

Johannes Ludwig had earlier got Germany off to the best possible start by winning the men's singles competition.

Ludwig recorded a total time of 1:28.267 to edge out Semen Pavlichenko of Russia, who was 0.164 adrift in second.

Latvia's Inars Kivlenieks earned the first podium of his career by finishing third.