10 Best Live-Action Superhero Suits

8. V – V For Vendetta (2005)

Is V a superhero? It’s up for debate. Some would describe his anarchy an act of heroism, while others would write it off as theatrical terrorism. But he does stand against corruption, which would put him more in the hero camp – which is good enough to include him on this list.

There are many elements of the character’s design that back this up. For example, his wide-brimmed hat and black cape create a distinct silhouette akin to Batman. The cape also serves a practical purpose, allowing V to conceal weapons and tools while adding to his imposing, almost supernatural aura. In the world of V For Vendetta, this deliberate theatricality instils fear and awe in his enemies and the public. 

The most recognisable part of V’s costume is the Guy Fawkes mask. It features a stylized, smiling face with a neatly trimmed moustache, thin beard, and arched eyebrows. It is both eerie and charismatic, hiding V’s identity while also allowing him to become a symbol rather than a person.

Unlike other entries on this list, the mask has transcended the film to become a global symbol of resistance and protest. The Guy Fawkes mask has been adopted by various activist groups and has become synonymous with the fight against oppression and the demand for justice. This also adds a layer of timelessness to the costume as it blends elements from different historical periods to create a look that is both ancient and modern. It reinforces the idea that V’s struggle is universal, applicable to any era in which tyranny exists. This is a costume worthy of Alan Moore’s original comic. 

Recommended for you: The 10 Greatest Moments of Gun Powder, Treason and Plot in ‘V for Vendetta’

7. Iron Man Mark III – Iron Man (2008)

Tony Stark has had no shortage of suits in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. From the fearsome Hulkbuster to one that can morph into a suitcase, it seems like he has one for every occasion.

Our pick takes us back to his first appearance in John Favreau’s Iron Man (2008). The Mark III armour is Stark’s first fully realised superhero costume, not only establishing Iron Man’s look, but also setting the standard for the evolution of his suits throughout the MCU. The red and gold combination is now synonymous with the character, and this suit was the first to bring that to the big screen.

While Stark has had stronger and more equipped suits since, the Mark III is endearing due to the tangibility of it. By Infinity War, Stark’s suits were complete with nanotechnology and could materialise out of thin air. And while they looked sleeker, they lost some of the charm and believability of a man flying through the air in a metal suit. The Mark III still packs a punch too, being outfitted with an array of weapons and holding its own against the much bigger Iron Monger.

Designed by comic artist Adi Granov, the Mark III is perhaps the most comic book-like of all of Iron Man’s suits. 

6. Captain America Stealth Suit – Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

One of the benefits of having a decade-spanning cinematic universe is the evolution of characters’ suits – just look at how many armours Iron Man has gone through. Even the Hulk has had a change of pants.

One of the most underrated costume changes is that of Captain America’s in his second solo outing, Captain America: The Winter Soldier. This suit abandons the red from his previous costume, instead utilising primarily blue and silver/white – clearly inspired by Dale Eaglesham’s art in “Steve Rogers: Super Soldier”. The iconic white star remains on the chest, but it’s less pronounced, integrated into the suit in a more understated manner.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a film that explores espionage, trust and morality in a complex modern world. The stealth suit therefore reflects these darker, more serious themes. It captures Steve Rogers’ transition from a World War II-era symbol of hope and patriotism to a more nuanced, tactical operator in a world of grey morality. On a more practical level, the suit is perfect for the covert nature of Steve’s missions in the film, where stealth and subtlety are more important than making a bold statement.

Is it the definitive Captain America suit? No. But is it one of the MCU’s best and most interesting suits? Absolutely. Oh, and bonus points for being Chris Evans’ favourite version of the costume too. 

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