IMO, the ol' superhero costume standbys (spandex, boots, gloves, cape, etc) reflect an earlier, simpler time which seems (sorry) often silly in the modern, cynical world. The newer heroes--which sport (eg) combat pants, vests, laced-up boots, and so on--seem much more realistic, especially when translated to live-action on the big screen. Many of Marvel's Ultimates adopt this more modern approach (or at least, more of it than the traditional look).
There are notable exceptions, some of which are:
1. The Hulk. Torn, ripped pants. Period. Wonderfully simple, a real 'nuff said' approach.
2. Silver Surfer. There is no costume. He is true to his nature, again wonderfully simple, and truly cosmic-looking. Like Hulk, he is a superhero w/o obviously looking like one.
3. Some versions of Thor. Hey, the guy's a god; you expect some fancy-shmancy attire. For him, it works.
4. Iron Man, again especially the newer versions. Tech-driven, functional-looking, very much in synch with today's hi-tech world.
5. Original Namor. C'mon: swimming trunks, he needs nothing else. Simple, logical. Like Hulk and Surfer, less is more.
