I've been wearing Birks since 1999 and I absolutely love them.  They are very well made, suit the contours of my feet and I have high arches and are so extremely comfortable for the wide foot as well.  Whether with or without socks, they are a great fit.  They last a long time and tolerate any kind of weather conditions.  Slip out the insert and you could walk through water with them.  Love them and look forward to staying in them for years to come.