Red Hood's new design utterly rejects the superhero aesthetic.
Red Hood's fresh design in The Boy Wonder offers Jason Todd the gritty anti-hero look he is due, thus boldly rejecting the conventional superhero aesthetic. Red Hood has had other recent makeovers, though. The Batman run by Chip Zdarsky has also brought a fresh design for the erstwhile Boy Wonder, begs a fascinating issue: comparing the two series, whose version of his suit reigns best?
Presenting a look more in accordance with an anti-hero than a conventional hero, this streetwise combo fits the Bat Family's self-described black sheep. The Boy Wonder #2 by Juni Ba's continuation Damian Wayne's quest to rid Gotham of the "demons" causing citywide kidnappings. With the first issue focused on Dick Grayson, this mission has also followed Ba's series with a retelling of Batman's Robins' origin stories from Damian's point of view. Issue #2 turns the emphasis to Red Hood, who joins Robin against the demons, therefore marking his series debut. This debut also presents Jason with a fresh design that deviates from the normal superhero look common in the hero community of the DC universe and embraces a design more suited with his usual Anti-hero persona.
Red Hood's anti-hero status is elevated while his streetwear wonderfully rejects the Superhero Aesthetic.
Red Hood's most recent design keeps his famous red helmet and weapons while changing his whole look. Jason now sports a faded dark grey hoodie combined with worn black cargo pants and battered black Converse sneakers instead of the normal heavy body armor. The addition of a brown leather vest covered in a scarlet "R" on the left breast marks maybe the most dramatic shift. Though it could refer to "Red Hood," it might also pay homage to Jason Todd's second Robin stint.
Presenting a look more in accordance with an Anti-hero than a conventional hero, this streetwise combo fits the Bat Family's self-described black sheep. Jason has moved further toward heroism while in mainstream continuity; Ba's series brings the character back to his roots, showing Red Hood as more of an anti-hero than a hero, therefore this appearance is especially appropriate. The story also implies Red Hood is alienated from the family, which helps to explain why he would not follow Bat-Family norms for gear and attire.
Both Batman #148 and The Boy Wonder #2 gave Jason Todd a fresh look, but which one is better?
Not only is Ba's series the latest comic run to give Red Hood a make-over. Batman #148 by Chip Zdarsky also featured Jason in a fresh outfit combining Red Hood's classic upper body gear with a brown and black cut-off jacket combo worn inside the body armor. The outfit also consists of what seem to be black and red Adidas-esque sports pants, which create an interesting but maybe divisive look.
If there is a winner between the two redesigns, Juni Ba's design most certainly takes front stage by deftly combining street-style twist with iconic Judd Winick Red Hood features. Dc Comics currently has the Boy Wonder #2 on sale!
The Boy Wonder: New Red Hood Design
The second book in Juni Ba's new series, The Boy Wonder #2, presents an original interpretation of Red Hood's outfit. The design veers from the conventional superhero image by embracing a more Streetwear-inspired vibe. Red Hood's more streetwise and accessible look from including a sweatshirt, cargo pants, and sneakers reflects his anti-hero status.
Red Hood's defiant and autonomous character is exactly captured in this fresh design. Emphasizing his own attitude to justice, it distinguishes him from Batman and the other Bat Family members. Designed with both flair and utility, the costume captures Red Hood's grit and tenacity.
Red Hood: Examining the Costume Changes
Red Hood's clothing design has changed dramatically throughout the years to mirror the character's convoluted trip and shifting DC universe tides. From his early years as Robin to his present anti-hero persona, Red Hood has changed, and each change shows in his Costume Design. The Boy Wonder's fresh Red Hood design is evidence of the character's development and his readiness to question accepted wisdom.
Red Hood's clothing designs have sometimes acted as a visual mirror of the character's inner conflicts. His new appearance in The Boy Wonder reflects his want to embrace his uniqueness and reject the limitations of conventional heroics. Red Hood's outfit has come to represent his rebellious attitude, his refusal to fit in, and his relentless dedication to justice—even if it means working outside the confines.
