In certain wave conditions you might be better off leaving the gear retracted due to the strong wave currents passing under the machine. With gears extended and the helicopter 90`to the waves the chances for capsizing "might" be greater than with gear up due to the drag they produce in the water, even though they don`t stick that far out. Top heavy machines are not helping either.
This might be the reason why the FM states leave gear up during ditching?
Anyone disagree?