The idea of capes being extremely impractical is something that has been discussed jokingly time and time again. After all, the idea of a hero or some other character having an annoying piece of clothing plaguing them at every step of the way does sound pretty grating. However, the purpose of a cape was never to be practical — it was only ever meant to add to the allure of a character by appearing dazzling, impressive, or anything else along the same lines.
This applies in anime as well, where a wealth of characters have worn capes with varying degrees of effectiveness. Out of all the people who have experimented with this attire, the following have really rocked this look and become all the more memorable as a result. Here are some of the best anime characters that absolutely nail their caped look.
7 All Might – My Hero Academia
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All Might has been depicted with and without a cape several times, so it's even more impressive this character's caped look has become so iconic in its own right. Part of this is definitely because of the parallels drawn between this powerful hero and Superman, whose look is also iconic because of these capes.
Of course, with All Might's current status as an ex-hero, it seems that this getup won't be witnessed in My Hero Academia anytime soon. It's a shame since All Might's appearances were the highlight of My Hero Academia. That being said, the show doesn't really need to worry about this since the direction it's heading towards is already pretty exciting as is.
6 Clare – Claymore
Claymore is a highly underrated anime that more people need to check out. It has a riveting setting and excellent characters, with its visceral combat also bringing the quality of the show to a whole new level. It's a shame that the anime veered off course instead of following the events of the manga, but that still doesn't take away from its engrossing run.
The main character of the series, Clare, is an apparently weak Claymore who shows time and time again that her rank doesn't reflect how powerful she is in the slightest. All Claymores weak a cape, so it might be unfair to only mention Clare here. However, it's a given that the protagonist of a tale is going to get the most attention, and this applies to Clare as well.
5 Lelouch Vi Britannia – Code Geass
Code Geass is one of the greatest anime of all time, with Lelouch serving as a great protagonist whose Geass finally gives him the power to take the throne he rightfully deserves. The anime is full of unexpected twists and turns, ending on a brilliant note that fans will remember long after they're done with this legendary series.
Lelouch has a habit of wearing a cape in this series, either as himself or as the alter ego Zero. He rocks this look every single time, genuinely looking like royalty. The fact that he can look like an unassuming student and a menacing ruler at the same time shows just how brilliant he's designed, with the show's sharp writing further strengthening this notion.
4 Saitama – One-Punch Man
The One-Punch Man anime is a brilliant series that needs a third season to come as soon as possible. The humorous nature of this show coupled with its brilliant setting makes it a highly engaging series.
The protagonist of this show, Saitama, is one of the funniest and strongest anime protagonists of all time. His humorous contributions to each scene he's featured in make him a major highlight of the series, with his amazing power making him a highlight every single time he decides to get even remotely serious.
3 Piccolo – Dragon Ball
The Dragon Ball series is filled to the brim with iconic characters who have donned a cape at some point. However, none of these characters boast the longevity and consistency of Piccolo when it comes to rocking this look. His white cape has pretty much become synonymous with his character.
After starting out as a villain, Piccolo became a mainstay in the series who veered on the side of good after developing a close bond with Gohan. The only time Piccolo removes his cape is during battle, with certain instances showing that this equipment was weighted to increase his power as well!
2 Kyojuro Rengoku – Demon Slayer
The Demon Slayer anime is a show full to the brim with characters who are designed immaculately. Each character looks distinct and alive, with Kyojuro Rengoku being one such character who is instantly recognizable due to his unique look. He played a major role during the Demon Train arc and showed why he was deserving of the Flame Hashira title.
Unfortunately, fans didn't get to enjoy Kyojuro's caped look for long. After laying waste to Enmu, Akaza suddenly appeared on the scene and engaged in a vicious battle with the Flame Hashira. Even after putting his body on the line, Kyojuro was fatally wounded by Akaza and ended up breathing his last after witnessing his final sunrise.
1 Shiroe – Log Horizon
Log Horizon is one of the best isekai anime around, serving as a great way to get into this populated subgenre of anime. The lead of this series is Shiroe, an intelligent character who looks quite smart and imposing with his white cape.
He might not be the most memorable protagonist around, but he gets the job done regardless. He can be both gentle and menacing when the need arises, making him the central point from which all main players bounce off in the series.