In an exciting development for Batman fans, DC Comics is set to relaunch its flagship Batman series this September, introducing a new look for Bruce Wayne. Artist Jorge Jiménez has crafted a fresh Batsuit that revives the iconic blue cape and cowl, marking a significant update to the Dark Knight’s costume after nearly 90 years of continuous evolution.
As we anticipate the new design, let's reflect on the greatest Batman costumes from the comics. We've curated a list of our top 10 Batsuits, spanning from the original Golden Age costume to modern reinterpretations like Batman Incorporated and Batman Rebirth. Dive into the gallery below to explore these legendary looks.
If you're more inclined towards the cinematic universe, don't miss out on our ranked list of all the movie Batsuits.
The 10 Greatest Batman Costumes of All Time
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10. ‘90s Batman
Introduced in the 1989 Batman movie, the all-black Batsuit became a defining look for the Dark Knight. While DC did not fully adopt this costume in the comics outside of actual Burton-Verse tie-ins like Batman ‘89, they did draw inspiration for the 1995 storyline "Troika." This suit combined the all-black body with a traditional blue cape and cowl, adding spikes to Batman's boots for an intimidating and stealthy appearance that dominated the '90s.
Batman Incorporated
Following Bruce Wayne's return after his apparent death in 2008’s Final Crisis, DC launched Batman Incorporated with a new costume designed by David Finch. This suit revived the classic yellow oval around the Bat emblem and eliminated the black trunks, presenting a more functional and armored look compared to the New 52 suit. It successfully differentiated Bruce Wayne from Dick Grayson, who was also Batman at the time, though the armored codpiece received mixed reviews.
Absolute Batman
Absolute Batman's Batsuit, one of the most recent additions to this list, stands out for its imposing design. In a rebooted DCU, Bruce Wayne, without his usual resources, creates a Batsuit that is a weapon in itself, featuring razor-sharp ear daggers and a battle-axe Bat emblem. The redesigned cape, with its flexible tendrils, and the sheer size of this Batman, humorously dubbed "the Batman who lifts" by writer Scott Snyder, make it a formidable costume.
Flashpoint Batman
In the alternate timeline of Flashpoint, Thomas Wayne becomes Batman after the murder of young Bruce Wayne. This version of Batman sports a darker costume with bold red accents on the Bat emblem, utility belt, and leg holsters, complemented by dramatic shoulder spikes and the use of guns and a sword, creating a visually striking and unique take on the character.
Lee Bermejo’s Armored Batman
Lee Bermejo's distinctive take on Batman emphasizes a functional armored look over traditional spandex, bringing a haunting, Gothic quality to the character. His designs have influenced other media, notably inspiring Robert Pattinson’s Batsuit in 2022’s The Batman, showcasing Bermejo's impact on the character's visual evolution.
Gotham by Gaslight Batman
Set in a steampunk Victorian era, Gotham by Gaslight's Batman is a perfect fit for this alternate universe. The Batsuit, redesigned with stitched leather and a billowing cloak, is brought to life by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola. This iconic incarnation has continued to captivate fans through follow-up stories like Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age.
Golden Age Batman
Bob Kane and Bill Finger's original Batsuit remains a timeless classic, serving as the foundation for all subsequent designs. Unique elements like the curved ears and purple gloves, along with a cape resembling bat wings, set it apart. Its enduring appeal is evident as modern artists continue to revisit and celebrate this iconic look.
Batman Rebirth
Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's Batman Rebirth costume refined the New 52 design, emphasizing a tactical yet streamlined aesthetic. With the return of the yellow Bat emblem and a nod to the Golden Age through the purple cape lining, this suit was a modern classic, though its use was unfortunately short-lived.
Bronze Age Batman
During the late '60s and '70s, Batman's costume was redefined by artists Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, and José Luis García-López, shifting from camp to a more serious and athletic portrayal. This period's Batsuit retained the classic elements but presented a leaner, more agile Batman, setting a standard that resonates with fans to this day.
Batman: Hush
Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's Hush storyline brought a sleek, elegant simplicity to Batman's costume, removing the yellow oval and focusing on a powerful and dynamic physique. This design became the go-to look for Batman, influencing subsequent artists and even making a comeback after the New 52 and DC Rebirth eras, proving its lasting impact.
How the New Batsuit Compares
As Jorge Jiménez and writer Matt Fraction prepare to kick off DC’s relaunched Batman series in September 2025, the new Batsuit brings back the blue cape and cowl, a nod to classic designs. The shaded cape and a larger, angular blue Bat emblem pay homage to Bruce Timm’s Batman: The Animated Series. While it maintains the essence of the Hush costume, this new look adds unique embellishments that keep Batman's iconic image fresh and evolving.
Batman's continuous evolution through different eras and artists showcases the character's versatility and enduring appeal. The new Batsuit promises to add another chapter to this rich history, but whether it will stand alongside these iconic designs remains to be seen.
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