Sailing Article Database

Brian Bissell of North Sails puts together a short guide on some basic tests to do before a race. You will want to do some speed testing, test the course, and test the starting line. This article is geared towards opti racers, but is applicable to all.

If your sails aren't setting up right, and you're getting different results from tack to tack, be sure to read this article. This article, from Sailing World, touches on some key things to focus on when trying to fix your tune.

This is an article from Sailing World, written by top American Laser sailor Andrew Campbell. This article touches on just about everything you need to know if you want to sail a laser properly. Detailed description of the rigging is followed by some tuning suggestions.

Some great pointers applicable to all on how to get improve your upwind sailing when the wind and chop kick up.

Success in regattas comes from a combination of mental preparation and technology... surprisingly probably more of one than the other.

Two boat tuning is a great tool when done properly. This article has some nice tips.

No description needed... If you want to go faster, these are the rules for you. This is a good list to read before every regatta.

When you have a problem with speed, one of your best fix-up tools may be a methodical two-boat test.

Greg Fisher describes (with some nice pictures as well!) how to examine your mast bend and what to look for when your properly set up.

Lightning expert David Starck explains the how forestay tension relates to performance in various conditions. If you don't know what that means you need to read the article.

Some tips on tuning a J22, but also some insight into what to look for when tuning any boat. This may help you understand why/how the sailmakers come up with their guide numbers.

Here are a few tips on how to use rig tension, genoa halyard tension, and genoa lead position to get the most out of your speed in flat water.

Ever wonder why your tuning guides call for a certain amount of prebend? This article by Hall Spars will help you understand.

This is a nicely written article going over a general tuning procedure for a wide variety of mast/rig setups... Written by Hall Spars.

George Szabo presents this checklist of how to get the most out of your Star when the wind drops down a few knots. Very useful stuff!

This article by Eric Doyle touches on how to set up your jib over a range of conditions. Written for the Star boat but applicable to many.

Vince Brun describes how to get the most out of your star. There're lots of little things to consider when setting up a boat for maximal performance.

This article by Geoff Moore for the J/24 class touches on some of the reasons behind placing so much effort into shroud tension and mast tuning.