Batman Unveils New Costume: Top Batsuits Ever

Exciting news for Batman fans: DC Comics is set to relaunch its flagship Batman series this September, featuring a new Batsuit designed by artist Jorge Jiménez. This fresh look brings back the classic blue cape and cowl, marking another evolution in the Dark Knight's iconic costume after nearly 90 years. How does this new design stack up against the legendary Batsuits of the past? Let's dive into our curated list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes from the comics, from the original Golden Age suit to modern reinterpretations like Batman Incorporated and Batman Rebirth.

For those who prefer the cinematic version of the Caped Crusader, be sure to check out our ranked list of all the movie Batsuits.

The 10 Greatest Batman Costumes of All Time

12 Images10. ‘90s Batman

Inspired by the all-black Batsuit from the 1989 Batman movie, the '90s Batsuit adopted a similar dark aesthetic but retained the traditional blue cape and cowl. Introduced in the 1995 "Troika" storyline, this costume added intimidating elements like boot spikes, which were later toned down. This suit became the go-to look for Batman throughout the decade, emphasizing stealth and intimidation.

9. Batman Incorporated

Following Bruce Wayne's return post-Final Crisis in 2008, DC launched Batman Incorporated with a new suit designed by David Finch. This costume reintroduced the classic yellow oval around the Bat emblem and eliminated the black trunks, presenting a more functional and armored appearance. It stood out for its cohesive design, distinguishing Bruce from Dick Grayson, who was also Batman at the time. The only slight drawback was the somewhat comical armored codpiece.

8. Absolute Batman

Absolute Batman's Batsuit, from a rebooted DCU where Bruce Wayne lacks his usual resources, is a marvel of weaponry. Every part of this suit, from the razor-sharp ear daggers to the detachable battle-axe Bat emblem, serves a combat purpose. The redesigned, tendril-like cape adds to its formidable appearance. Its imposing size, humorously dubbed "the Batman who lifts" by writer Scott Snyder, makes it a standout.

7. Flashpoint Batman

In the Flashpoint alternate timeline, Thomas Wayne becomes Batman after Joe Chill kills young Bruce. This darker version features bold red accents on the Bat emblem, utility belt, and leg holsters, along with dramatic shoulder spikes on the cape. Known for using guns and a sword, this Batman's costume is one of the most visually striking alternate universe designs.

6. Lee Bermejo’s Armored Batman

Lee Bermejo's Batsuit is a departure from traditional spandex, focusing on armor and functionality. His distinctive, gritty, and Gothic style inspired the look of Robert Pattinson’s Dark Knight in 2022's The Batman. Bermejo's Batman is as much about form as it is about function, embodying a haunting and realistic aesthetic.

5. Gotham by Gaslight Batman

Gotham by Gaslight's steampunk Victorian setting perfectly complements the Batsuit's stitched leather and billowing cloak, a stark contrast to the usual spandex. Illustrated by Mike Mignola, this Batman is iconic and enduring, with the character's essence beautifully captured in this unique world. This design continues to inspire through follow-up stories like Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age.

4. Golden Age Batman

Bob Kane and Bill Finger's original Batsuit design has remained remarkably consistent over 90 years. The Golden Age suit's menacing curved ears, purple gloves, and bat-wing-like cape set it apart. It's thrilling to see modern artists revisit this foundational design.

3. Batman Rebirth

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's Batman Rebirth costume enhanced the tactical look of the New 52 suit by simplifying details and reintroducing color, such as the yellow outline around the Bat emblem and a purple inner cape lining. This design, though short-lived, is a standout among modern redesigns.

2. Bronze Age Batman

During the transformative late '60s and '70s, artists like Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, and José Luis García-López redefined Batman's look. They emphasized a leaner, more agile Batman, moving away from the Silver Age's campiness. This era's design remains a benchmark for many fans, especially thanks to García-López's influential artwork.

1. Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's Hush storyline introduced a Batsuit that became the modern standard. With its sleek black emblem and elegant simplicity, this design showcased Lee's ability to create dynamic superhero physiques. The Hush costume set a lasting template for subsequent artists and has seen a resurgence after the New 52 and DC Rebirth eras.

How the New Batsuit Compares

Jorge Jiménez's new Batsuit for the relaunched Batman series in September 2025 builds on the Hush costume. It reintroduces the blue cape and cowl, with a heavily shaded cape reminiscent of Bruce Timm's Batman: The Animated Series. The Bat emblem is also blue and more angular, offering a fresh yet familiar take. While it's exciting to see Batman evolve, only time will tell if this redesign can stand alongside his most iconic looks.