Milanese Loop Apple Watch Strap

I purchased my Apple watch in the fall of 2017. I purchased the Milanese loop strap with it. I wanted a silver/stainless steel look. I researched the strap carefully before purchasing it to ensure that it wouldn't just fall off if the magnetic clasp was somehow disrupted. The safety of the strap was that it could open up, but that the other end of the strap would not pass through the opening on the watch. It is too big.

Some of the loops on my strap have since broken and it catches on my skin and clothing. Therefore, purchased a new one directly from Apple and received it yesterday. The primary safety feature of the original strap is now apparently useless as the end of the strap passes easily through the opening. Did Apple change this safety feature for some reason? Did I receive a defective one? Why would this feature be changed?

Thank you.