Superman
By Brett Smiley This quintessential superhero, who first appeared in the 1930s, is one of the most popular and recognizable. Nerdy reporter Clark Kent by day, the caped hero with the ability to fly and superhuman strength is an icon for the unassuming underdog. And, of course, one of his biggest fans, Jerry Seinfeld.
Captain America
The name says it all. The man, Steve Rogers, is decorated in red, white and blue and, as the story goes, he was turned into an impeccable physical specimen thanks to a solider serum he received during World War II. Captain America’s biggest fans are often patriotic, military men who respect authority.
Wonder Woman
One of the most well known comic heroines, Wonder Woman is not afraid to play with the boys. Measuring in at six feet tall, she possesses incredible strength. Any man who loves Wonder Woman is not intimidated by a strong woman, literally or figuratively. There’s also a good chance that this man is into role playing — and I’m not talking about action figures.
Wolverine
This hero's defining characteristics are claws that protrude from his hands, an incredible healing ability, and heightened senses. As portrayed by Hugh Jackman in the X-Men film series — back on the big screen in 2012 — the mutant hero is a confident, fierce combatant. He’s a favorite for guys impressed by stealth hand-fighting skills and toughness, which is to say, many of them.
The Incredible Hulk
"The madder Hulk gets, the stronger Hulk gets!" This condition is more of a curse than it is a power, given the complications Dr. Bruce Banner's alter ego causes him, but it obviously makes for great art and theater. Because Dr. Banner, a physicist, is a withdrawn, shy person, Hulk is in some ways an expression of his subdued emotions, like rage. Hulk's often a favorite of more introverted guys who bottle up what’s inside.
Dr. Doom
Of course, Dr. Victor Von Doom is no superhero — he’s a villain — but he has a place here to illustrate that some people root for the bad guy. Who are they? Well, men who like chaos, destruction or think the hard working man is a sucker. Avoid Dr. Doom fans in a traffic jam.
The Flash
Known as “The Fastest Man Alive” and the “Scarlet Speedster," Flash has been incarnated a few times but the constant is his incredible speed. This characteristic attracts car aficionados, hyperactive kids and athletes. Ideal profession: NASCAR driver.
Spider-Man
"With great power comes great responsibility." That maxim drives Spider-Man, a.k.a. Peter Parker, who gained his high-flying spider powers after getting bitten by a radioactive spider. Parker got bullied as teen and was somewhat of a social outcast, so those who can relate to the experience and enjoy seeing the victim prevail, has a special place in their hearts for Spidey.
Punisher
This native of New York and a Vietnam War veteran, who first appeared in the Spider-Man comics, is a harsh individual. His craft is vigilante justice and he uses any means necessary, which includes the entirety of his U.S. Marine training, as well as less wholesome means, to stomp out the scourge of the Earth. Punisher’s fans like to get the job done, no matter who gets hurt along the way.
Batman
Scarred as a boy when he witnessed his parents’ murder, he made it his quest to fight crime and rid Gotham of evil, turning to his childhood fear — bats — for his persona. Batman's a popular hero for guys who have turned to a tragic experience for inspiration. (Of course, some of his fans simply like a man who beats the crap out of bad guys.)
Robin
Who admires one of the greatest superhero sidekicks? Someone who doesn’t desire the spotlight or top billing, and is content as the less recognizable figure in an awesome pair. Robin is no slouch, mind you, but he’s still the more youthful, second banana to Batman. There’s a good chance your Robin lover is a younger brother.
Catwoman
Mention Catwoman and most men’s thoughts immediately drift to Michelle Pfeiffer or Halle Berry in tight black leather. It’s our nature. Catwoman, who makes her home in Gotham, is the city’s greatest cat burglar, the antihero to Batman and his on-again off-again love interest. A guy who loves Catwoman is a guy who can't resist a bad girl.
Iron Man
Iron Man was rebooted into the mainstream recently with a series of successful films starring Robert Downey Jr. as the scientist-turned-hero, Tony Stark. Iron Man owes his superpowers to his magnetic suit, which he created out of necessity after suffering a heart injury and being held captive. His biggest fans have a passion for science and technology, and possibly Black Sabbath too.
Daredevil
A champion for the disabled, Daredevil was blinded by radioactive waste, but the accident also enhanced his other senses so he can acrobatically navigate the dark. A successful attorney by day, Daredevil is beloved by those who have persevered over hardship. Fortunately for the city, Daredevil doesn’t bill his night hours.
