Rider doesn't fit the bike = it's the design's fault

I have small hands as well which is why I initially preferred SRAM hoods and levers, but I've since gone full Shimano with 6800 and 5800 and I have never had an issue panic-braking in traffic on my commutes. If anything, the fact that the levers are larger makes me feel safer because there's a lot more lever to actually grab if you need to. You've got to be doing something totally wonky if you shift when you're trying to brake.