I have be a fan of Birks for year , and love the support and comfort I have always have . this year I buy a pair of Birks , and buy the same size and model I have always buy , Milanos , size 45 . for some reason , the new Birks seem to be up to a inch longer than my other pair . I find myself stumble and hit the toe of the sandal if I be not careful . what be up with that ?