It doesn't seem to be a factor 99% of the time. Maybe swings a little more if anchored in fast water otherwise I cant say it matters. Some guys like them, others don't. It is what came on my used Willie and I like it.

It does protrude more in spinning and bumping situations, like Mule Creek and the Coffeepot on the Rogue. It is more likely to hit the side canyon wall while spinning and could cause the boat to broach in the very narrowest spots under some water conditions -It sticks out another 10 inches or so. I will pull mine off the next time through the coffeepot and put it right back on at the next bar.

They are otherwise easy to use and out of the way with good mechanical advantage when pulling rope. YMMV.