thatababy: why does superman wear a cape? he doesn't need it to fly. it doesn't give him any tactical advantage.
lando: he wears a cape because it looks cool!!
thatababy: thanks, lando.
Out-of-universe: because trapeze artists used to make their entrances wearing capes, which they would flamboyantly unhook and discard before starting their act. Indeed, the entire costume is based on the 30s trapeze look, including the so-called “underwear on the outside”. In the thirties, it was the sexiest thing a man could wear without being obvious about it. For the same reason, in the 50s, Supergirl was dressed (except for the cape, which had become part of the trademark) like a figure skater; it was the sexiest thing a woman could wear and still pretend that sex had absolutely nothing to do with it.
In-universe: because it has a concealed pocket where he keeps Clark Kent’s clothing, squeezed really small. (It’s also convenient for wrapping Lois Lane in, in bad weather.)
BRI-NO-MITE!! Premium Member over 11 years ago
I’d like it if capes were in style.
scrabblefiend over 11 years ago
What about Darth Vadar?
Godfreydaniel over 11 years ago
I was expecting a comment from the CAPED Crusader……..
Comic Minister Premium Member over 11 years ago
I wonder if his dad who said that?
John W Kennedy Premium Member over 11 years ago
Out-of-universe: because trapeze artists used to make their entrances wearing capes, which they would flamboyantly unhook and discard before starting their act. Indeed, the entire costume is based on the 30s trapeze look, including the so-called “underwear on the outside”. In the thirties, it was the sexiest thing a man could wear without being obvious about it. For the same reason, in the 50s, Supergirl was dressed (except for the cape, which had become part of the trademark) like a figure skater; it was the sexiest thing a woman could wear and still pretend that sex had absolutely nothing to do with it.
In-universe: because it has a concealed pocket where he keeps Clark Kent’s clothing, squeezed really small. (It’s also convenient for wrapping Lois Lane in, in bad weather.)
Nancy Murphy over 11 years ago
Thatababy doesn’t look happy about Lando’s answer…
Captain Colorado over 11 years ago
As I recall, a cape worn by Kryptonians was a sign of nobility.
water_moon over 11 years ago
I thought the cape was the baby blanket he came to earth wrapped in.
John W Kennedy Premium Member over 11 years ago
No, the entire costume was made by Ma Kent by unweaving the baby blankets and weaving them back together.
Caretaker24523 over 4 years ago
Being a nurse, I’m actually glad capes are out of style. As are white uniforms and having to wear caps. Yes, the look classy but are a royal pain!