I don't get the hate on retractable leads. Sure, there are people who don't use them appropriately, but that goes for bicycles, cars and strollers too. I can reel in a dog faster and more securely on a retractable lead than I could on a 4' fixed lead (AND still have my other hand free for carrying something, holding a child's hand, or walking another dog) - which, 4' of fixed lead is more than long enough to cause problems for cyclists and runners. I surely don't expect people on the MUPs to be walking their dogs on show leads.