Loose footed main

Oct 29, 2012
353
Catalina 30 TRBS MkII Milwaukee
I know by searching the forum there are numerous thoughts on the subject of Loose footed mainsails.
And new Catalina's now come with furling mains which are loose footed.
Any thoughts out there pro or con, and why ???
I'm looking at having a new mainsail built, and the sail-maker is touting the loose-foot.....
 
Nov 26, 2012
1,654
C&C 40-2 Berkeley
My last couple of mainsail purchases have been loose footed. I like a fully battened, loose footed main. The loose foot allows quick and easy adjustment of the sail shape via the outhaul. No tapering off of the sail curve at the base. It also makes for easier reefing and easier sail removal. I am not sure what, if any, advantage there is to having the foot attached. Maybe someone can chime in on that.
 
Oct 3, 2011
835
Anam Cara Catalina 310 Hull #155 155 Lake Erie/Catawba Island
I agree with Mark, when we change our main, as we have in the past, we use Doyle sails, loose footed main with draft stripes.