We've had Superman's current "New 52" look since the DC Comics relaunch in 2011. Now four years and 37 issues later, Superman is receiving some modifications to his modern costume when Superman #38 hits comic stores everywhere on Feb. 4.
Before you get too excited: no, the red underwear isn't back. In fact, this new costume still looks much the same as Superman's first New 52 suit -- with one exception.
Superman's costume now includes fingerless gloves. What use does Superman have for fingerless gloves? No idea. His boots are slightly different, and his new belt features a yellow sigil too. The cover for issue #38 doesn't reveal much...
But issue #39 spills the beans on the new look.
See, it's not too different. The boots are slightly changed, and overall the costume doesn't look to have quite as many seams as his old New 52 costume.
But let's go back to those gloves, shall we? Fingerless gloves are almost as pointless as a giant, flowing red cape. Superman's cape is iconic at this point and fans would riot were it to ever disappear, so it gets to stay. But adding yet another fashion item to the classic costume design is a little distracting. Simplicity is key here, and adding gloves just for the sake of it doesn't seem to contribute much.
As long as writer Geoff Johns and artist John Romita can continue to deliver some stellar Man of Steel adventures, fans shouldn't be too concerned. Even if Superman is wearing gloves with holes in them.
