New mainsail for Maggie

The time has come to replace the existing mainsail with something a bit less blown-out, grubby and mould riddled...

I've been running the idea past some sailing buddies and gathering general advice prior to talking to the sail maker - who will be Peter Green Sails. While I'm getting a new sail I thought it also a good time to update the reefing from roller reefing to slab reefing - linky thing for wiki explanation of different reefing systems - which will help maintain a better sail shape once reefed and with all the lines led back to the cockpit, no reason to go forward to reef the main.

The general consensus has been to go for a loose footed main - so I will take that idea to the sail maker.

Other things which need considering are:

1. Reef Points: I'll probably go with 2. But has been pointed out to me - if I want to race to Cat5, I must be able to reef to 25% reduction in luff (which is the bit that runs up the mast) length.
2. Material - I'll stick with dacron, which is the standard stuff.
3. Batten - do I just go leach battens or full battens.

The other point to consider is am I going to remove the main after each use or leave it on the boat? If I am going to leave it on, do I get a sail cover also and do I install lazy jacks??

I think I will probably remove it and keep it below.

Finally, I think is the reefing system. I am probably sold on single line reefing with the lines running to the cabin top.

I'll keep the updates coming...