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The Art and Science of Sails: A Guide to Modern Materials, Construction, Aerodynamics, Upkeep, and Use
 
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The Art and Science of Sails: A Guide to Modern Materials, Construction, Aerodynamics, Upkeep, and Use [Hardcover]

Tom Whidden (Author), Michael Levitt (Author)
5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)


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Book Description

July 1990
A fresh, readable guide for sail cruisers and racers! Tom Whidden discusses the latest materials and rigging methods for sailboats and shows the consumer how to choose between different cloths and designs, plus the construction and trim of sails, as well as the upkeep of a proper sail inventory.


Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

For anyone in the process of ordering a new genoa jib, this book is both timely and informative. Whidden, president of North Sails, has provided a readable volume which starts with sail material and concludes with the care thereof. In between, there is much valuable information regarding such matters as design and development, sail and rigging trim, and choice of inventory for various sailing interests. While the book is aimed at the specialist, the style is clear enough for most sailors. Highly recommended for all libraries with a literate sailing clientele. Dolphin Book Club Selection; first serial, Sailing . -- Robert E. Greenfield, formerly with Baltimore Cty. P.L.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

  • Hardcover: 371 pages
  • Publisher: St. Martin's Press; 1st edition (July 1990)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0312044178
  • ISBN-13: 978-0312044176
  • Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 7.2 x 1.4 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
  • Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
  • Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #207,901 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

8 Reviews
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Average Customer Review
5.0 out of 5 stars (8 customer reviews)
 
 
 
 
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Learn how modern sails REALLY work!, February 5, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: The Art and Science of Sails: A Guide to Modern Materials, Construction, Aerodynamics, Upkeep, and Use (Hardcover)
I am very impressed by the way the author has made a very complex subject understandable, enjoyable and relevant! The science behind it all is fluid dynamics...but to the reader this book is ALL about sailing.

The explanations of how each individual sail works are very clear. Even more vital is the knowledge of how the foresail and main interact, how that impacts on boat speed and performance and how you can use that to improve your sailing. The explanation of "the slot", how it works and why the "myths" are "myths" I found particularly revealing!

The other feature that appealed to me was the balance between the technicalities and other aspects. The practical assessment of different sail materials was great, and the history and anecdotes of how modern sail design grew up is absorbing.

It isn't for the total novice...but it will teach a great deal to anyone beyond that.

Alistair Gillanders MRIN (RYA Ocean Yachtmaster)

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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book: lots of information and smooth reading, November 7, 1998
By A Customer
This review is from: The Art and Science of Sails: A Guide to Modern Materials, Construction, Aerodynamics, Upkeep, and Use (Hardcover)
This book has managed to get the correct balance. Tom Whidden explains why (and how) sails work in a scientific way. Still there are no formulas in the book. The result is a book that is very interesting for the sailor that is interested in science. Still the absence of math and formulas makes the book a very smooth reading.

Among other thing, Tom Whidden explains why the old slot effect theory is false. He also does a wonderful job in explaining the interaction between the headsail and the mainsail. The chapters on sailcloth and new materials are great, too. Unfortunately the book was written in 1990, thus there has probably been more advances in sail cloth technology since the book was written.

Overall a really great book.

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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent explantion and information about sails., March 29, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: The Art and Science of Sails: A Guide to Modern Materials, Construction, Aerodynamics, Upkeep, and Use (Hardcover)
This book offers invaluable information on the how and why sails work. Someone with basic knowledge of sailing can use this book to understand the multiple dynamics of optimum sail selection and use. Even a seasoned sailor/racer will find information on getting that little extra from their sails
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