Exciting news for Batman fans: DC Comics is set to relaunch its flagship Batman series in September, introducing a fresh look for Bruce Wayne, courtesy of artist Jorge Jiménez. This new Batsuit reintroduces the classic blue cape and cowl, marking another evolution in the Dark Knight’s iconic costume after nearly 90 years.
With this upcoming change, it's the perfect time to revisit and rank the greatest Batman costumes of all time. From the original Golden Age suit to modern takes like Batman Incorporated and Batman Rebirth, we've curated a list of our top 10 favorite Batsuits. Scroll down to explore the evolution and diversity of Batman's iconic attire.
For fans of the cinematic Dark Knight, don't miss out on our ranked list of all the movie Batsuits.
The 10 Greatest Batman Costumes of All Time
12 Images
10. ‘90s Batman
Introduced in the 1989 Batman movie, the all-black Batsuit became an iconic symbol of the Dark Knight. While DC Comics didn't fully adopt this look in the comics (except for actual Burton-Verse tie-ins like Batman ‘89), they were inspired by it for the 1995 "Troika" storyline. This Batsuit combined the movie's all-black body with a traditional blue cape and cowl, adding intimidating spikes on the boots. It became the definitive look for Batman throughout the '90s, emphasizing stealth and intimidation.
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 brought back the classic yellow oval Bat emblem and removed the black trunks, offering a more functional and visually cohesive look compared to the later New 52 suit. The Batman Inc. design suggested a suit of armor rather than spandex, providing a clear distinction between Bruce and Dick Grayson, who was also Batman at the time. The only critique is the somewhat peculiar armored codpiece.
Absolute Batman
Absolute Batman, a recent addition to this list, showcases a formidable and imposing Batsuit. Set in a rebooted DCU, this Batman, despite lacking traditional resources, crafts an arsenal where nearly every part of the suit is a weapon—from ear daggers to a battle-axe Bat emblem. The redesigned cape with flexible, arm-like tendrils adds to its menacing presence. The sheer size of this Batman, humorously dubbed "the Batman who lifts" by writer Scott Snyder, makes the Absolute suit truly stand out.
Flashpoint Batman
In the alternate Flashpoint timeline, Thomas Wayne becomes Batman after young Bruce's murder. This darker version sports a Batsuit with bold red accents, replacing the traditional yellow with deep crimson on the emblem, utility belt, and leg holsters. The dramatic shoulder spikes and the use of guns and swords contribute to a visually arresting alternate universe Batman.
Lee Bermejo’s Armored Batman
Lee Bermejo's distinctive take on the Batsuit emphasizes armor over spandex, reflecting both function and a haunting, Gothic aesthetic. Bermejo's Batman, seen in works like the Batman/Deathblow crossover and infamous Batman: Damned, inspired the look of Robert Pattinson's Dark Knight in 2022's The Batman, showcasing its lasting impact.
Gotham by Gaslight Batman
In the steampunk Victorian setting of Gotham by Gaslight, Batman's costume trades spandex for stitched leather and a billowing cloak. Illustrated by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, this Batman is iconic and shadowy, fitting perfectly into the world of follow-up stories like Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age.
Golden Age Batman
Designed by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, the original Golden Age Batsuit has remained largely unchanged for nearly 90 years, featuring curved ears, purple gloves, and bat-wing-like cape. This design's longevity and unique features make it a cornerstone of Batman's iconic look.
Batman Rebirth
Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's Batman Rebirth costume improved upon the New 52 suit by retaining a tactical look while simplifying and adding color, including a yellow outline around the Bat emblem and a purple inner cape lining reminiscent of the Golden Age. Though short-lived, this redesign stands out among modern takes.
Bronze Age Batman
During the late '60s and '70s, Batman's costume evolved to match the shift from campy to more serious storytelling. Artists like Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, and José Luis García-López redefined Batman's look, emphasizing a leaner, more agile figure that fit the ninja-like superhero persona. This era's design remains a benchmark for many fans.
Batman: Hush
Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's Hush storyline introduced a sleek redesign that became the standard for Batman. The removal of the yellow oval and the emphasis on a powerful, dynamic physique made this Batsuit iconic. It set a model for future artists and was eventually reinstated after the New 52 and DC Rebirth eras, proving its enduring appeal.
How the New Batsuit Compares
Jorge Jiménez's new Batsuit for the kick off of DC’s relaunched Batman series in September 2025 brings back the blue cape and cowl, adding shading to the cape reminiscent of Bruce Timm’s Batman: The Animated Series. The blue Bat emblem is larger and more angular, offering a fresh take while maintaining a connection to Batman's storied past. Whether this new design will endure like its predecessors remains to be seen.
