Chris Evan as Captain America in Captain America: The First Avenger (Image via Paramount Pictures)
1. Captain America (The First Avenger)
Sometimes, Captain America’s costume has been a little too America, you know? This isn’t necessarily an indictment of patriotism. I mean, his name is Captain America, after all. Still, there are some versions of his costume where it looks as if Steve Rogers just kind of wrapped himself up in an American flag and called it a day.
Thankfully, the first big-budget movie version of Captain America actually got the costume just right. It’s definitely the classic suit, with the main blue color, red and white stripes on the abdomen, and that big old star in the middle of his chest.
Yet, there’s actually an element of restraint to this version of the costume. It’s definitely got color to it, but the colors aren’t incredibly bright (as you would later see in The Avengers). It’s got a few straps and gear packs here and there, but not to Rob Liefeld proportions.
In all, it’s almost reasonable, given that Steve is working in the European theater during World War II. Captain America is still in a getup that makes him stand out, but it looks far more sturdy and useful than a stretchy leotard. Overall, it strikes a good balance between the essential goofiness at the heart of any superhero franchise and the practicalities demanded by being a soldier.