DC Comics’ Superman has been given a near-complete overhaul in the recently launched Absolute Universe, with his super-suit being the perfect balance between something old and something new, all brought together by the character’s signature “S” shield logo. In a sneak peek of an issue of Absolute Superman, the Man of Steel gets a new helmet/mask to add to his iconic costume design, one that might annoy some fans even if it does look pretty cool in context.

Reinventing, redeg, and redefining the most popular characters in DC Comics’ sprawling catalog of superheroes, the Absolute Universe is a totally new and totally different continuity where anything goes, with Absolute Superman being a far more troubled and powerful character than fans have seen before.

In a preview for Absolute Superman #9, DC shows off a slightly tweaked look for Big Blue with a cover image by Rafa Sandoval that depicts Absolute Superman standing in front of a group of gun-toting Omega Men while wearing Clark's usual Absolute Universe suit as well as something new: an Omega symbol-branded helmet/mask.

Superman Will Get an Omega Men Helmeted Redesign in an Issue of Absolute Superman

Absolute Superman #9 - July 2, 2025 (Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval)

Releasing on July 2, Absolute Superman #9’s synopsis reads, “The mysterious Omega Men have chased the Superman around the world, determined to plead their case: that only with his help and by unleashing the full scope of his terrifying power can they put an end to the Lazarus Corporation. And with anger burning in his heart, Kal is starting to listen…” Promising exciting developments that further differentiate this new Superman from his main continuity counterpart, Absolute Superman #9, if its cover image is anything to go by, will also see Superman don a helmeted look that might divide fans.

Despite this newest wardrobe addition, which objectively looks badass, the idea of Superman wearing a mask or helmet flies in the face of what the character stands for. Though he does have a secret identity in the everyman that is Clark Kent, Superman purposely doesn’t conceal his face so that his warmth, humanity, and trustworthiness can easily be conveyed to those he protects, giving them a sense of hope, calm, and safety. Furthermore, Superman himself is never seen covering his face with anything but glasses, ensuring that this new Absolute Universe look will irk some long-time fans while intriguing others.

Absolute Superman’s Reasoning for Wearing a Mask Has Not Been Officially Revealed

Absolute Superman #9 Variant Covers by Leirix and Gerald Parel, 1:25 Variant Cover by Jeff Spokes, 1:50 Variant Cover by Leirix

Given Absolute Superman #6 is the latest issue currently available, fans don’t know much about the exact implications of why Absolute Superman is wearing this Omega Men helmet outside of the official issue synopsis provided by DC. It can be assumed that Superman must at some point the group’s ranks — either forcibly, willingly, or as a ploy to get within their organization — making the wait for Absolute Superman #9 a much-anticipated one. It’s safe to assume Superman’s new masked/helmeted look won’t stick around past the arc in which it premieres, but it’s still a fun design to see.

Absolute Superman #9 will be available on July 2 from DC Comics.