Marvel: Best Captain America Costumes In The Comics

Summary

Captain America‘s costume evolved through different eras, reflecting the changing times and roles.
Alternate versions like Soldier Supreme and Captain Carter put unique spins on the classic design.
The Secret Empire costume was iconic but tainted by the character’s evil portrayal.

The character known as Captain America boasts an extensive history dating back more than eighty years within Marvel Comics. Over this period, numerous writers and artists have contributed to the development of this figure, depicting either Steve Rogers or one of his subsequent incarnations. Consequently, the iconic Avenger has donned a diverse array of costumes throughout the years.

Over the decades, Captain America’s wardrobe has undergone a remarkable transformation – from the timeless star-studded look to contemporary tactical styles. Each costume carries its unique narrative, mirroring not just the shifting times but also the diverse roles and obstacles that the Marvel superhero has encountered during their heroic odyssey.

10. Earth X

A Dark Captain For A Darker Timeline

First Appearance: Earth X
Creator: Alex Ross

Instead of a miracle, Captain America’s emergence from the ice in the Earth X storyline can be seen as a terrifying scenario where every person on Earth gains superpowers. Steve Rogers is portrayed as a survivor struggling to stay alive in this apocalyptic world, wearing a toga crafted from an American flag and what remains of his uniform as pants.

In my viewpoint, donning the Earth X design transforms Captain America into a fierce warrior brandishing a shield, with the traditional A symbol morphed into a striking scar etched upon his brow and visage. This alteration underscores the grittier, more intense atmosphere of this universe. The artwork, masterfully crafted by acclaimed illustrator Alex Ross, truly brings this transformation to life. Known for his work on various Marvel and DC projects such as Kingdom Come, Mr. Ross’s artistry adds a layer of authenticity that makes the new Captain America all the more compelling.

9. Soldier Supreme

What Happens When Doctor Strange And Captain America Fuse

First Appearance:
Creator:

Due to the Infinity Stones giving birth to a new realm called Warp World, Doctor Strange and Captain America have merged into a single character known as Soldier Supreme. The fusion combines traits from both heroes, like the cloak and robe of Doctor Strange matched with Captain America’s cowl, armor, and star-spangled attire.

The notion of merging two legendary characters is an age-old fantasy from childhood dreams, which has been brought to life in various franchises like DC and Dragon Ball. Marvel also joined the fun by introducing Soldier Supreme, a character who uses magic for his unique ability to craft signature shields and emblems.

8. Bucky Barnes

The Winter Soldier Carried The Torch With A Fury

First Appearance: Captain America Vol. 5 #34
Creator: Steve Epting

In various stories, individuals other than Steve Rogers have donned the Captain America mantle, including his close friend Bucky Barnes, who is often recognized as the Winter Soldier. After Steve Rogers’ demise in the “Civil War” narrative, Bucky tried to continue the legacy out of respect; however, he was a more aggressive version of Captain America that existed only for a short period.

Bucky’s Captain America costume aligns well with his more complex character, as it features mainly dark blue and black instead of white and bright blue, with a metallic finish. The emblem on his chest, reminiscent of the classic shield used by Steve Rogers during his initial debut, is particularly noteworthy.

7. Classic

Jack Kirby’s Original Design Remains Iconic

First Appearance: Captain America Comics #1
Creator: Jack Kirby

Since his debut until the present-day comics, Marvel consistently returns to the traditional suit for Steve Rogers. It’s a straightforward superhero outfit, yet the embellishments of stars, stripes, and wings on his hood make it distinctively Captain America, even though it may seem outdated, this classic touch is often enough to give him an iconic appearance.

In 1941, the iconic appearance of this character was introduced by Jack Kirby, aimed at boosting morale among soldiers and children during World War II. This is why the red, white, and blue costume seems so fittingly symbolic. Remarkably, more than eight decades later, it remains the quintessential image that comes to mind when people think of this character. In fact, most Captain America video games reflect this timeless design.

6. Captain Carter

Peggy Has Become A Beloved Marvel Superhero

First Appearance: Captain Carter #1
Creator: Marika Cresta

In various realities suggested by the multiverse, intriguing ideas have been delved into, such as one alternate universe where Steve’s most cherished love, Peggy Carter, takes on the role of Captain Carter, distinct from Captain America. Her uniform is a unique blend of traditional Captain America attire with elements of the British flag incorporated.

One delightful feature of Peggy Carter’s appearance is that she embodies the image of a super soldier. Female characters with muscular builds are not commonly seen in comics, but Captain Carter stands out as an exception, combining strength, attractiveness, and intellect in a way that has resonated deeply with fans, leading to her widespread popularity as a beloved version of the character both in comic books and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

5. Secret Empire

A Great Suit Wasted On An Evil Captain America

First Appearance: Captain America: Steve Rogers #16
Creator: Kevin Libranda, Yıldıray Çınar, Jon Malin

It’s unfortunate that the “Secret Empire” portrayal of Captain America is entirely wicked, as the costume he donned while leading Hydra gained significant recognition. This costume combines the classic Captain America aesthetic with militaristic elements, much like what you’d expect from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The scales adorning his upper body were also given a fresh update.

In the outfit of Secret Empire, the deeper shade of blue harmoniously blends with the lively reds. The suit also reintroduced the kite shield, now featuring an innovative blue pattern that includes a star. Interestingly, the design for Secret Empire seems adaptable to portray Captain America as both a hero and a villain at once.

4. Sam Wilson

The All-New Captain America Mixes Old And New

First Appearance: All-New Captain America #1
Creator: Stuart Immonen

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Sam Wilson, who was once called Falcon, is now the sole hero to have a long-lasting tenure as Captain America. Unlike traditional super soldiers or genetically enhanced beings, he relies on his raw abilities and a high-tech suit that provides protection and flight capabilities, similar to his days as Falcon. In the movie “Captain America: Brave New World,” Sam Wilson takes center stage as Captain America.

The costume that Sam Wilson dons as Captain America is distinct from Bucky’s, sporting a predominantly white and blue color scheme adorned with wing-like patterns and the classic Stars and Stripes. This uniform represents not only homage to the past but also Sam Wilson’s unique flair as Captain America.

3. Ultimate

Steve Rogers Got A Perfect Redesign For The Ultimate Universe

First Appearance: The Ultimates #1
Creator: Bryan Hitch

In the 2000s, Marvel introduced the “Ultimate Universe” as an effort to provide fresh readers with an entirely revamped Marvel comic book history. The character of Steve Rogers underwent a transformation in appearance, keeping the general image of Captain America while incorporating additional details like military gear and a more padded bodysuit to make it seem less like spandex.

In contrast to its storyline that crumbled due to excessive shock and edgy elements, the character designs in the Ultimate Universe were generally well-received as they modernized the characters. Notably, the design of their suits was carried over into the animated Ultimate Avengers series from the early 2000s.

2. World War 2

The Ideal Uniform For A Super Soldier

First Appearance: The Ultimates #1
Creator: Bryan Hitch

Throughout the years, Marvel has chosen to depict Steve Rogers in a pre-Captain America uniform from World War 2 era. This outfit included a modified bomber jacket, goggles, and a helmet adorned with the traditional Captain America color scheme, giving him a more down-to-earth and authentic appearance.

The attire appears quite fitting for a super soldier from World War II, a look that fans have become deeply attached to and Marvel has incorporated into numerous video games and animated series. There’s even a subtle nod to it in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

1. Secret Avenger

The Blue And White Became An Iconic Look For Comics And Movies

First Appearance: Secret Avengers #1
Creator: Mike Deodato

People who admired the S.T.R.I.K.E. suit that Steve Rogers wore in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” may find it interesting to explore his character when he joins the ranks of the Secret Avengers in the comics of the same name. The all-blue tactical uniform adorned with silver Stars and Stripes gives Steve Rogers a more espionage-like appearance than a typical superhero, while still maintaining his Captain America identity.

Apart from the fresh design and hues, the Secret Avenger edition of Captain America forgoes his traditional helmet. Instead, it depicts Steve Rogers in a rougher style, sporting a stubble beard at 5 o’clock, symbolizing that he is no longer trying to uphold the image of the government’s cherished superhero.

2025-02-13 00:01