Testing out DaVinci Barefoot Primavera shoes in the historic Barrio Viejo neighborhood of Tucson

Full Review

DaVinci sent me a pair of their Primavera boots for feedback. These are “barefoot” boots, meaning they are lightweight with minimal padding to allow the foot to find its own natural footfall.

Tip: Want to hike Tucson’s best trails? Read Max’s Best Hikes in Tucson article or check out our individual Tucson Hiking Guides.

I was skeptical that DaVinci would be able to make a comfortable, barefoot leather boot, but after taking them on an evening stroll in Barrio Viejo in Tucson in 100° F+ heat, I’m a believer.

When I slid them on, I immediately noticed how light and airy they feel despite being made of full grain leather. I felt like I was wearing ballet slippers! The sole is thin but provided a surprising amount of bounce and padding with each step. After several miles I could hardly feel them.

A leather boot in soaring temps seems so unappealing, but my feet stayed incredibly cool and comfortable. I wore them over a Fox River neoprene wicking sock, which was perfect for the hot weather.

I was impressed by the high quality materials and painstaking attention to detail in the construction. The leather is buttery soft like a handmade moccasin. They remind me of a classic Frye boot but are far more malleable and easier on the feet.

Thanks DaVinci! I’ll be a barefoot convert for the rest of my life – and these shoes are so well made, they might just last that long.