Marvel vs DC: The Best Bearded Comic Book Heroes - Part 2

Superheroes are often a fresh-faced bunch. Think of Batman and Superman or Spider-Man and Captain America, and you won't see so much of a whisker in sight. Sure, there's the occasional parallel universe where Superman grows a beard. But in the day-to-day world of Marvel and DC, beards aren't as popular as they should be.

There are, however, a brave and courageous few who not only fight the villains plaguing their universe but also grow superhuman beards. The real question is, Marvel or DC: who's got the best-bearded superheroes? 

In Part 1, we delved into the two comic book titans' heavy hitters – from Wolverine to Thor. Now, we are exploring deeper into superhero mythology to once again decide which superhero has the greatest beard of them all. 

Aquaman (Arthur Curry) – DC

Like most of the members of the Justice League, Aquaman was initially portrayed as a clean-shaven titan of the seas. However, the man who can speak to fish isn't as much of a laughingstock as he used to be. Regardless, several incarnations give him a beard to make it clear: Aquaman is no joke.

In the '90s TV show, Aquaman had long flowing hair, a bold blonde goatee, and was completely bare-chested. It was a stark reversal from his usual, youthful comic book appearance. Then came Jason Momoa. Looking distinctly Polynesian, Momoa's pointed full beard (sort of akin to a Ducktail) provided a healthy dose of epicness to the Ruler of the Seven Seas. 

Now, it's not uncommon to see Arthur Curry sporting a long, thick beard alongside his golden trident. We think it makes him look badass.

Kraven the Hunter – Marvel

Technically, Kraven is usually a villain, a popular adversary of Spiderman and Black Panther. However, at times, he's depicted as an antihero, even teaming up with Spidey and Squirrel Girl.

Unlike the clean-cut heroes who dominate the pages of comic books, Kraven embraces a rugged, almost wild appearance, with his thick, untamed beard being a hallmark of his distinct look. Kraven is every bit as wild as the animals and heroes he goes after. His beard, paired with his long flowing hair and preference for animal skins, paints the picture of a man who is not just a hunter but a creature of nature himself.

Indeed, Kraven's beard isn't just facial hair; it's fur. 

The Wizard Shazam – DC

Billy Batson might shout "Shazam" to transform into the legendary superhero. But technically, it's not his name. Shazam is the wizard who gave him his powers. Like all the best wizards, Shazam had a long, flowing white beard and a bushy mustache. The only real difference is he's completely bald up top. I guess what they say is true: the better your beard, the more hair you'll lose.

In the Shazam film, the great wizard, played by Djimon Hounsou, has a more African appearance. Less long and flowing and instead thicker and bushier, the beard is still pretty damn wizardly. As far as the best bearded comic book heroes go, it's about as follicular-ly endowed as you can get.

Odin (All-Father of Asgard) – Marvel

You can't be a Viking god without a magnificent beard. Not to be outdone by his son Thor, Odin grows a luscious, regal full beard. Completely white, it's a testament to his kingly power and sheer badass-ry. 

Odin's beard isn't just for show; it symbolizes wisdom, strength, and authority, traits that are quintessential to his character. As the ruler of Asgard and the Norse pantheon, Odin's beard adds to his majestic presence, commanding respect and admiration from gods and mortals alike. In the Marvel Universe, this aspect of his appearance is not merely aesthetic but also reflects his storied past and the immense knowledge he possesses.

The only question we have is, why did it take the fresh-faced Loki so long to realize he wasn't Odin's son? Has he not seen the facial hair in that family? 

Lobo – DC 

The Main Man – Lobo's facial hair is as wild and untamed as his personality. Sporting a thick, rugged beard that complements his long, unruly mane of hair, this intergalactic bounty hunter's look perfectly encapsulates his rebellious and fearsome nature.

Of course, Lobo doesn't really look like any other character. A cross between the band KISS and a Rastafarian biker, Lobo is the embodiment of the Rule of Cool. Big muscles? Check. Intergalactic motorcycle? Check. Big bushy mutton chops and mustache? Check.

Seriously, what more could you ask for?

With the recent news that Jason Momoa is set to play Lobo in the updated DC Universe, we're able to see the character on the big screen. We're pretty excited! Nobody could encapsulate his look better. 

Hercules – Marvel

Hercules – Marvel's rendition of the legendary Greek demigod – not only boasts god-like strength and an indomitable spirit but also a majestic beard that is worthy of mythological acclaim. Unlike, say, Thor's carefully coiffured beard, Hercules is rugged and unkempt – everything you'd expect from a brawling titan of Greek mythology. 

What does it say about him? That's he's a man who gets things done – and he's to be messed with. Indeed, it complements his brawny physique and lion-hearted demeanor, echoing the classic images of ancient warriors and heroes.

The Verdict

The last round went to Marvel. But then, last time, we included Wolverine – the greatest bearded comic book character. (Sorry, I'm biased.) This time, however, I'd say DC has clinched it. With entries like Lobo and Shazam, we don't just have a boring, standard beard, but something raw, wild, and wizened.

Don't agree? Think we've missed the best bearded comic book heroes – let us know in the comments below. We're more than happy to start a debate. 

Of course, if you want to achieve a beard like the best-bearded superheroes, then you need some legendary beard products. While we can't promise our beard oils, balms, and cream will impart the magical properties of Shazam, they will leave your beard soft and nourished.

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