I can manage the 5 fret stretch without struggling (apparently, I have large hands), but don't usually make stretches like that unless there's no option. Otherwise I'll lift fingers just to save on potential wear and tear.
On that particular riff, I have no problems playing it lifting my index finger slightly to play the higher frets (this also has the advantage of stopping the note from ringing, which adds a little staccato effect)
I wish this forum had a "block user" feature. Possibly I'm not the only one......