Exciting news for Batman fans: DC Comics is set to relaunch its flagship Batman series in September, introducing a new Batsuit designed by artist Jorge Jiménez. This new suit revives the classic blue cape and cowl, marking another evolution in the Dark Knight's nearly 90-year history on the stands. But how does this new look stack up against the iconic costumes of the past? Let's explore the greatest Batman costumes of all time, from the original Golden Age design to modern interpretations like Batman Incorporated and Batman Rebirth.

For those more interested in the cinematic side of the Dark Knight, don't miss our ranked list of all the movie Batsuits.

The 10 Greatest Batman Costumes of All Time

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10. ‘90s Batman

Inspired by the 1989 Batman movie, the ‘90s Batsuit introduced an all-black body with a traditional blue cape and cowl. This design, which debuted in the 1995 storyline "Troika," added a more intimidating and stealthy look to Batman. Though initially featuring extreme elements like boot spikes, these were later toned down. This suit became the standard for Batman throughout the decade.

9. Batman Incorporated

Following Bruce Wayne's return after his apparent death in 2008's Final Crisis, DC launched Batman Incorporated with a new costume by David Finch. This suit brought back the classic yellow oval around the Bat emblem and omitted the black trunks, offering a more functional and visually cohesive look. It distinguished Bruce Wayne from Dick Grayson, who was also Batman at the time, though the armored codpiece was a slightly quirky addition.

8. Absolute Batman

Absolute Batman, from a rebooted DCU, showcases a highly imposing Batsuit. In this version, Bruce Wayne, without his usual wealth, crafts a suit where nearly every part is a weapon, from razor-sharp ear daggers to a removable Bat emblem that serves as a battle axe. The redesigned cape with flexible, arm-like tendrils and the suit's sheer size make it stand out, earning it the playful nickname "the Batman who lifts."

7. Flashpoint Batman

In the Flashpoint timeline, Thomas Wayne becomes Batman after his son's murder. This version features a dark suit with bold red accents, including the Bat emblem, utility belt, and leg holsters. With dramatic shoulder spikes and the use of guns and swords, this alternate universe Batman offers a visually arresting and unique take.

6. Lee Bermejo’s Armored Batman

Lee Bermejo's distinctive Batsuit is more armor than spandex, emphasizing function and a haunting, Gothic aesthetic. This design has inspired other versions, including Robert Pattinson's suit in the 2022 film The Batman.

5. Gotham by Gaslight Batman

Gotham by Gaslight's Batman, illustrated by Mike Mignola, perfectly fits the steampunk Victorian setting with stitched leather and a billowing cloak. This iconic look continues to influence follow-up stories like Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age.

4. Golden Age Batman

Bob Kane and Bill Finger's original Batsuit has remained iconic for nearly 90 years. Its unique features, like curved ears, purple gloves, and bat-wing-like cape, set it apart and continue to inspire modern artists.

3. Batman Rebirth

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's Batman Rebirth suit improves on the New 52 design, bringing back color with a yellow Bat emblem outline and a purple cape lining. This modern redesign, though short-lived, is considered one of the best.

2. Bronze Age Batman

During the late '60s and '70s, artists like Neal Adams, Jim Aparo, and José Luis García-López redefined Batman's look, focusing on a leaner, more agile figure. This period's Batsuit, with its blue cape and cowl and yellow oval, became the standard for many fans and appeared on various merchandise.

1. Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's Hush storyline introduced a sleek, elegant Batsuit without the yellow oval. This design became the default for Batman, influencing subsequent artists and even returning after more armored looks in later eras.

How the New Batsuit Compares

Jorge Jiménez's new Batsuit for the relaunched Batman series in September 2025 retains the Hush style but brings back the blue cape and cowl. The heavily shaded cape and the blue, angular Bat emblem echo Bruce Timm's Batman: The Animated Series. While it's exciting to see Batman evolve, only time will tell if this new look will join the ranks of the most iconic Batsuits.