The Visual Evolution Of Superman

The Man of Steel has one of the most - if not the most - recognizable costumes in comic books. And while it may seem like his super suit hasn't changed much since 1938, its various details have actually been tweaked and revised in almost every decade.

Superman's evolution - even setting aside the wild experimentation of his 1990s outfits - has included changes to his boots, the size of his trademark "S" shield, and occasionally ditching his cape. When it comes to the Superman logo evolution, that shield has transitioned from gold to the familiar red and yellow to - following his climactic bout with Doomsday - plain metal.

Unlike Superman's movie suits, his comic uniform has enjoyed a fair bit of variety. Here's a nostalgic roundup of his most fashionable duds.

Photo: DC Comics / DC Comics / DC Comics

  • 1938: Action Comics #1

    1938: Action Comics #1
    Photo: Joe Shuster / DC Comics
  • 1940: The Small Shield

    1940: The Small Shield
    Photo: Joe Shuster / DC Comics
  • 1945: Classic Look

    1945: Classic Look
    Photo: Wayne Boring / DC Comics
  • 1958: Silver Age Supe (With Rainbow Powers)

    1958: Silver Age Supe (With Rainbow Powers)
    Photo: Curt Swan / DC Comics
  • 1960: The Family Set

    1960: The Family Set
    Photo: Curt Swan / DC Comics
  • 1963: Superman Red & Blue 1.0

    1963: Superman Red & Blue 1.0
    Photo: Curt Swan/Kurt Schaffenburger / DC Comics