Batman Is Getting a New Costume: These Are the Greatest Batsuits of All Time

In case you missed it, Bruce Wayne is getting a stylish upgrade this September when DC Comics relaunches its flagship Batman series. Artist Jorge Jiménez has crafted a new Batsuit, bringing the classic blue cape and cowl back into the spotlight. After nearly 90 years, DC continues to refine the Dark Knight's iconic look.

But how does this new suit stack up against the greats? What are the best Batman costumes of all time? We've chosen our top 10, from the original Golden Age suit to modern interpretations like Batman Incorporated and Batman Rebirth. Let's dive in!

And for those who prefer the silver screen, be sure to check out our ranking of all the movie Batsuits.

The 10 Greatest Batman Costumes of All Time

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10. '90s Batman

1989's Batman film introduced a revolutionary all-black suit, instantly iconic. While DC didn't fully translate this to the comics (except for Batman '89 tie-ins), a movie-inspired suit debuted in the 1995 "Troika" storyline. This version maintained the all-black body but kept the traditional blue cape and cowl, adding spikes to the boots (later toned down). The result? A stealthier, more intimidating look that defined Batman throughout the '90s.

9. Batman Incorporated

Bruce Wayne's return after Final Crisis (2008) launched Batman Incorporated, along with a new David Finch-designed suit. This suit notably revived the classic yellow oval Bat emblem and eliminated the black trunks. It felt like a refined version of the New 52 suit, offering a more functional, armored look without cluttering the design. The visual distinction between Bruce and Dick Grayson (also Batman at the time) was a welcome bonus. The only minor drawback? A slightly awkward armored codpiece.

8. Absolute Batman

This recent addition makes a powerful statement. This Batman is imposing. In a rebooted DCU where Bruce lacks his usual advantages, he still creates an impressive arsenal. Every inch of this suit is a weapon—razor-sharp ear daggers, a removable Bat emblem doubling as a battle-axe, and a redesigned cape with flexible tendrils. But the sheer size and imposing physique of this Batman truly sets this suit apart.

7. Flashpoint Batman

In the Flashpoint timeline, Thomas Wayne becomes Batman after Joe Chill kills young Bruce. This darker Batman needed a darker suit—bold red accents replace the traditional yellow. The crimson Bat emblem, utility belt, and leg holsters create a unique look. Combined with dramatic shoulder spikes and the fact that this Batman uses guns and a sword, it's a visually striking alternate-universe design.

6. Lee Bermejo's Armored Batman

Lee Bermejo's distinctive Batsuit is far from the typical spandex look. This is pure armor, prioritizing function over form, yet maintaining a haunting, Gothic quality. It's a far cry from spandex and heavily influenced the look of Robert Pattinson's Dark Knight in 2022's The Batman.

5. Gotham by Gaslight Batman

The DC multiverse is vast, but Gotham by Gaslight's Batman stands out. This steampunk Victorian design trades spandex for stitched leather and a billowing cloak. Mike Mignola's art gives Batman a truly iconic, granite-like presence. This design continues to influence subsequent stories like Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age.

4. Golden Age Batman

The original Bob Kane/Bill Finger design's longevity speaks volumes. It's the foundation for every Batsuit since. Notable features include curved cowl ears, purple gloves, and a cape resembling actual bat wings—elements that continue to inspire modern interpretations.

3. Batman Rebirth

Greg Capullo's Rebirth redesign improves upon the New 52 suit. It retains the tactical look while simplifying details. The yellow outline around the Bat emblem and purple cape lining (a Golden Age nod) add welcome color. It's a shame this design was short-lived; it's a high point of modern redesigns.

2. Bronze Age Batman

The late '60s and '70s saw a shift towards more serious stories. Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, and José Luis García-López defined Batman's look during this era. While the basic elements remained, these artists emphasized a leaner, more athletic physique, reflecting Batman's ninja-like skills. García-López's art, in particular, remains incredibly influential.

1. Batman: Hush

Jim Lee's Hush suit is often considered the start of the modern Batman era. Its elegant simplicity—a sleek, black emblem replacing the yellow oval—and Lee's powerful depiction of Batman's physique made it instantly iconic. This design became the standard, influencing subsequent artists and eventually becoming the default look once again after the New 52 and Rebirth eras.

How the New Batsuit Compares

Jorge Jiménez's new suit, debuting in September 2025, isn't a drastic departure from the Hush suit but adds interesting touches. It brings back the blue cape and cowl, with heavy shading creating contrast reminiscent of Batman: The Animated Series. The Bat emblem is also blue and more angular. Time will tell if this new design achieves the same lasting impact as Batman's most iconic suits.

For more Batman adventures, check out IGN's top 27 Batman comics and graphic novels.