Notorious Lift Radix Vs 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot

The Notorious Lift Radix and 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot are both models that I’d put into the same bucket regarding features, price points, and general performance in the gym.

Historically speaking, 1HUND and Notorious Lift have both gained their notoriety in the powerlifting space for their deadlift slippers, so it’s been fun putting their first passes at barefoot shoes head to head.

With the Aerolux Barefoot coming in at $80 and the Radix hitting $100, you’re likely wondering, “Which shoe is best, which should I go with, and which will match my training needs best?”

After testing these shoes across multiple strength and athletic-focused workouts — yes, I pushed these models for my hybrid-esque workouts, too — I’ve built a pretty good framework on which option to go with.

Aerolux vs Radix Overview

In the context of silhouette, the Radix and Aerolux both have a similar structure to them. They have flatter soles compared to other more athletic-built barefoot shoes like the Archetype 2.0 from Tolos.

This gives these shoes a flatter feel when on the feet and when training, which is why I like these models best for strength-focused contexts. I feel like this speaks to their origins in powerlifting and their roots with deadlift slippers.

The Radix is most similar to models like the Apex Power 1.5, while the Aerolux is somewhat similar to the Vivo Primus Lite III — at least regarding its upper construction and its boot.

I think what I’ve enjoyed with both of these models so far is that I didn’t expect to like either of them for daily wear, but the minimalist branding used on each shoe and the simplistic construction gives them more range that I anticipated.

Sizing and Fit

• 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot: Size up a half-size, wide feet go up a full size.
• Notorious Lift Radix: Size up a half-size.

Additional Sizing Notes: Both of these shoes run short, so sizing up should be a safe call for most. In terms of pure width, the Radix does run wider throughout and it has a more spacious upper construction.

Performance Comparison

Right out of the gate, I want to make it clear — if you’re nervous about one of these being sub-par for lifting, don’t be. They’re both stellar, and I think most recreational athletes and lifters will be on the money regarding lifting performance.

There are some subtle differences to note between these two shoes, though, and I dive much deeper into these details in my individual reviews. My advice is to peep the summary breakdown below, and once you decide on one or the other, check out my full review.

This way, you can better cross-reference a shoe’s performance across multiple verticals in more depth and ensure the price point and construction really hit your training wants.

• Aerolux vs Radix for Strength Work: Both are great, but I do have a favorite. The Notorious Lift Radix takes the slight edge here for me due to its sole, which wraps around the forefoot, midfoot, and heel, and its slightly wider toe box. The Radix grips the floor super well for heavy deadlifts, and its 3.3mm stack height gives it a super minimalist feel when the insole is out.
• Aerolux vs Radix for Deadlifts: For conventional deadlifts, both shoes are fantastic. For sumo deadlifts, the Radix takes the slight edge due to Novus Griptech rubber sole. The wrap around the lateral forefoot gives you a nice wall to brace into when you’re spreading the floor and pulling.

• Aerolux vs Radix for Cross-Training: The 1HUND Aerolux is taking the slight win for cross-training. It’s a little more breathable than the Radix and its medium-width gives it a snugger fit when jumping and being explosive. However, I’ve used both shoes for this training setting, and they’ve been fine.
• Aerolux vs Radix for Daily Wear/Walking: Notorious Lift Radix works great for more casual settings and the Aerolux is awesome for warmer climates. I’ve enjoyed both shoes for walking and day-to-day wear and find myself gravitating towards each for slightly different reasons.

Overall Winner: Notorious Lift Radix. For strength training, powerlifting, and even casual use, the Radix has been more of my go-to shoes. This one was tough, though, and I see the benefits of each shoe depending on the context of use. The one area where I think the Aerolux makes a ton of sense is if you have narrower feet and want more breathability.

How I’ve Tested These Shoes In the Gym

• Strength Tests: 505-525 lb deadlifts, 365-405 lb squats, 3-rep max walking or reverse barbell lunges
• Strength & Power Tests: Power cleans, hang cleans, dumbbell and kettlebell snatches
• Cross-Training: Broad and box jumps, skater strides, and plyometric/agility sessions
• Running: Haven’t tested these models for a ton of running.
• Walking: 2-3 mile dog walks, all-day wear comfort tests

For transparency, I typically rotate in barefoot shoes most often on my strength, hypertrophy, and athletic-focused workout days. My tests will ebb and flow depending on the shoe’s performance intent. Since these models have a powerlifting bias, I used them a lot during my barbell sessions.

Construction Specs to Know

	Radix	Aerolux
Drop	0mm	0mm
Weight	9.10 oz	8.95 oz
Insole	Yes (finished internal)	Yes (finished internal)
Width	Wide	Medium/Wide

Construction & Breathability

• Notorious Lift Radix: Boasts a heavier mesh material, providing superior durability and stability. While slightly less breathable compared to its counterpart, it offers a decent level of ventilation to keep your feet comfortable during heavier/longer lifts.
• 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot: Features a lightweight mesh material, offering enhanced breathability, making it ideal for lifters who prioritize airflow and ventilation during workouts.

Toe Box Width & Volume

• Notorious Lift Radix: Stands out with its wider toe box and increased upper volume, ensuring a snug and secure fit for lifters with broader feet or those who prefer ample room for toe splay.
• 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot: Offers a narrower toe box and lesser upper volume, catering more to individuals with narrow feet or those who prefer a snugger fit.

Sole Grip & Stability

• Notorious Lift Radix: Excels in providing exceptional grip on various surfaces, thanks to its novel tread pattern and thin rubber sole. It offers unparalleled stability, ensuring confidence and control during lifts.
• 1HUND Aerolux Barefoot: While it offers decent grip, it may not match the level of traction provided by the Notorious Lift Radics, particularly on slippery surfaces or during heavy lifts.

Closing Remarks

For being companies that got their start with deadlift slippers, I’ve been impressed with both of these barefoot shoes. I went into these models not expecting much but have since fallen in love with both of these shoes.

The Radix’s minimal stack height and super grippy outsole are fantastic for lifting, and the Aerolux’s wispy upper and narrower fit is great for a certain type of foot anatomy and training setting.

If you have additional questions about either of these shoes and which will match your training best, drop a comment below, and I will help you accordingly!