Tops boats are constantly changing lower shroud tension between upwind legs. Remember 50 tiny improvements make a small difference to boatspeed so when you optimize your boat this winter be realistic about what you want to achieve next season. For the Etchells Qualifiers and Worlds this year, set yourself a target position within your capabilities when you are sailing at your best. Anything better than that is a bonus. Go with fast gear.
All hulls are virtually the same as terms of quality and boatspeed.
Keep the deck layout simple but effective. Go with proven equipment like Proctor Spars and North Sails. It does make a difference. Downwind legs are just as important as upwind legs. Charlie Pitcher has been involved with keelboats for many years and currently crews aboard one of the fastest boats in the UK fleet, Mike Law's Intruder , GBR123.