Actually, I have a number of leashes and each has a specific use. I have a 30 foot soft lead for when I am working in the front yard and want to let Pico have as much of the yard as possible without enough to get near the street.
I have a fancy, dress-up leash that matches his fancy harness for special occasions.
I have a short, regular leash I keep in the car "just in case".
I have a retractable that I use for shopping and for walking. When I need to keep him near, I can lock it short and when I can let him roam a bit I can let it out. The "jerk" is minor and it really doesn't impact his little body.
Like everything else with these babies, you need a full wardrobe of leashes, it seems.