Since real time is used for with and without load time, would it not be better to ignore the time freezes and just go for optimal lines even if the in game timer shows it being much worse?

Based upon my research, times slower than your current PB on the file can actually save time because the game won't save the slower time and give a PB recap screen, saving about half a second. Although in my opinion, having time with and without loads is good because the PC does not have load times, and people wanting to run the game on PC will still have to 100% the game to get the times they need.

yeah you're entirely right, I was thinking this earlier. Ignoring the time freezy things is optimal and runs in leaf sliding should focus on optimal routes.