I understand it's trying to be durable and look "professional". I figured I'd save space by buying short cords, but that's counterintuitive because you can't tie excess to it because the thick shielding and braided cord mean they won't flex. They also don't rotate cleanly at right angles, resulting in the broad tip of the "Racing Line" cable protruding from the device. I'm sure the longer versions will be more useful as the extra length allows you to loop neatly.