Reefing may occur by rolling the sail around its luff or foot, either on a rotating stay or within a spar.
Pulling these points down to the boom forms a new tack and clew, reducing the sail's area.
[2][1] Slab or jiffy reefing allows for the quick establishment of a new tack and clew, while the halyard is partially lowered and then raised.
[3][4] Roller reefing rolls or wraps the sail around a wire, foil, or spar to reduce its exposure to the wind.
Furling systems controlled with lines led to the cockpit allow reefing without crew having to go on deck in heavy weather.