Superman #38 Solicitation Teases A New Suit Among Other Changes
By Steve Lam
Ever since Superman was given a new suit in the New 52 reboot, fans were divided on whether or not they liked the updates. The loss of the red trunks was one of the major changes. Even my comics knowledge-challenged mom (who still thinks that Superman can’t fly without his cape) noticed the difference when she walked past a New 52 Superman poster hanging at a store near her office. “Superman doesn’t wear his underwear outside anymore!”, she exclaimed. In defense of Superman’s honor, I replied with my best Emilio Estevez, “It’s not underwear … it’s the required uniform.”
Well, it was required no more because it truly was gone. With the absence of the red trunks, fans also saw a myriad of other changes that included: a higher collar; pointed cuffs to make his sleeves look more gauntlet-like; a red belt; a newly redesigned “S” insignia; and lines — yes, lots and lots of lines to make the statement that his suit is Kryptonian armor. Needless to say, the opinions were dramatically divided. But it didn’t matter to DC because they liked it so much that the modifications also inspired Superman’s garb in Man of Steel.
Fashion-oriented fans can now rest a bit easy (or not) because the solicitation for Superman #38 hints at a plethora of changes for the Man of Tomorrow, and one of them is a redesigned suit:
"SUPERMAN #38Written by GEOFF JOHNSArt and wraparound cover by JOHN ROMITA, JR. and KLAUS JANSONTHE FLASH 75 Variant cover by KEVIN NOWLAN1:50 Variant cover by LEE MODER1:100 Variant cover by JOHN ROMITA, JR. and KLAUS JANSONOn sale JANUARY 28 • 40 pg, FC, $4.99 US • RATED TCombo pack edition: $5.99 USRetailers: This issue will ship with five covers. Please see the order form for more information.An extra-sized special issue of the world’s greatest hero brings in the New Year with a new costume, new powers and new friends and enemies! The epic team of Geoff Johns, John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson conclude their first arc with twist after twist that will send Superman onto a new path and force Clark Kent to making a shocking decision! Plus: John Romita Jr. draws Batman!This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue."
It’s unknown as to what degree Superman’s suit will change, but if they draw from past reactions from fans, DC will be wise to keep the cape and other iconic elements (e.g. red boots, overall blue scheme, etc.). What do you think? Do you like Superman’s current New 52 suit? If it does change, what do you hope to see?