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but extra lanyards laying around makes for extra work are also a hastle possibly causing a drama in itself.
Using a surfboard leash, setup well, shouldn't feel like extra work or a threat to safety.
Mine is 9' long and attached to the left of the rear aka support and when not in use, the "captain's" end velcroed around the left strap of the seat. I don't completely remove the seat, so it's always there ready to use with no additional setup time (plus I can't forget it!). All of the line is coiled up, held by a soda can cuzi.
I never wear it launching or landing. I choose to wear it when out solo, or with others when the waves get big enough to be a concern.
Notice below, that I only pull out enought "line" for the full pedal stroke so there is not a lot of out to catch on anything. With a little practice, I can put it on when it gets rough, one handed, without stopping or taking my eyes off conditions. If I were to leave the boat, the full 9' will release putting me about 2' behind the stern but within reach of anywhere on the boat. I used it once while changing a rudder pin from in the water (not recommended) and it was the prefect length to keep me at the best working distance of the transom area while treading water.
If you really want to test the effect of you being overboard with your boat sailing away (without getting wet), try deploying a drift chute and then sailing. Bet you don't make much better speed than the current, and we're all much bigger (and more drag) than a regular drift chute.
I once forgot my leash, when it was removed while changing seats, and I felt naked out in the waves not attached. I would not choose to go very far off shore without one. But, to each his own!
Kayaking Bob