All 15 Superman suits ranked from worst to best

The Man of Steel has donned multiple different suits over the years, but they are all part of his legacy. Which ones inspire the most hope, and which fell flat?

Superman & Lois -- “Of Sound Mind” -- Image Number: SML306a_0489r -- Pictured: Tyler Hoechlin as Superman
Superman & Lois -- “Of Sound Mind” -- Image Number: SML306a_0489r -- Pictured: Tyler Hoechlin as Superman
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Kirk Alyn Playing "Superman" in Columbia Superman Serial
Kirk Alyn Playing "Superman" in Columbia Superman Serial | George Rinhart/GettyImages

14. Superman (1948) / Atom Man vs. Superman

Worn by: Kirk Alyn

Kirk Alyn was the very first actor to ever play the Man of Steel on any screen, appearing in two black-and-white movie serials between 1948 and 1950. He certainly looked the part for each of them, showing off that iconic hair curl that Superman is known for while striking all of the signature poses.

Being that the first serial was the first time the suit ever appeared on-screen, it had to look good. Thankfully, it did, bringing the traditional Man of Steel look to life. It's interesting that it didn't opt for the classic Fleischer suit design (which had become incredibly popular due to the animated specials at the time) as it too would have looked great. Nevertheless, given the limitations of the time, the suit looked awesome.

Yes, it's not exactly up to today's standards - particularly because the woollen top had ribbed cuffs, making it look more like a jumper instead of a superhero uniform - but it has aged a bit better than most of the original wave of superhero suits, and we're not going to waste words talking about that on every one of the Man of Steel's early costumes.

This was a very strong, comic-accurate start for Superman.