Fortnite has released hundreds of skins since its launch in 2017, ranging from original Epic Games creations to blockbuster crossovers. While “best” can be subjective—depending on whether you prefer flashy, rare, or nostalgic—some skins have become legendary due to their design, rarity, cultural impact, or fan demand. Skins have become a major part of the game’s culture since its release. Players love showing off their favorite character outfits while battling for Victory Royales. These cosmetic items range from simple recolors to elaborate character designs based on original concepts or popular franchises.
Finding the best Fortnite skins often depends on personal preference, but some outfits stand out due to their design, rarity, or popularity within the community. According to player ratings, skins like Lara Croft, Midas, and Travis Scott rank among the most highly rated cosmetics by the player base. Some players prefer clean and simple designs while others enjoy more detailed or animated outfits that make a statement on the battlefield.
Here’s a breakdown of the best Fortnite skins ever released:
1. Renegade Raider
- Why It’s Iconic: One of the rarest skins in Fortnite history.
- First Appearance: Season 1 (Chapter 1) – Item Shop.
- What Makes It Special: Only available during the first season of Fortnite Battle Royale, Renegade Raider has become a symbol of OG status. Its scarcity and old-school military design make it one of the most coveted skins of all time.
2. Drift
- Why It’s Iconic: A Battle Pass favorite with an evolving look.
- First Appearance: Season 5 – Battle Pass.
- What Makes It Special: Drift starts off as a streetwear-clad character and evolves into a glowing, masked kitsune warrior. It perfectly captured the excitement of Fortnite’s expanding story and style in 2018.
3. Midas
Midas is one of Fortnite’s most iconic characters. His golden touch ability and sleek design have made him a fan favorite since his introduction. The original Midas skin debuted in Chapter 2, Season 2, as part of the Battle Pass. Players were drawn to his stylish suit and the unique ability that turned weapons gold. Epic Games has released several variants of Midas over time, with each version bringing something new while maintaining his signature style. Ascendant Midas ranks among the most popular versions, according to many players.
The Shadow Midas variant offers a darker interpretation of the character, swapping gold accents for shadow elements and providing a more mysterious look. For a summer vibe, Midsummer Midas presents a beach-ready version, adding a fun twist to the normally serious businessman aesthetic. Icebound Midas introduces a frosty feel, replacing his golden touch with ice effects. Midas Rex provides a more armored, battle-ready version that imagines what Midas might look like as a full-fledged warrior instead of a corporate boss.
The newest addition, Outlaw Midas, appeared in Chapter 6, Season 2. This Wild West-themed version gives the character a completely different feel while still retaining his core identity. What makes Midas skins so popular is their attention to detail. With reactive features and unique animations, these skins offer more than just visual appeal. Players often debate which version of Midas reigns supreme. While some favor the original for its classic appeal, others prefer the newer variants with updated effects and designs. Regardless of your preference, Midas remains one of the most recognizable and sought-after characters in the Fortnite universe.
- Why It’s Iconic: He turns everything to gold—literally.
- First Appearance: Chapter 2, Season 2 – Battle Pass.
- What Makes It Special: Midas was the leader of the Agency and a central figure in Fortnite’s lore. His sleek, gold-suit look and unique ability to “goldenize” any weapon made him a fan favorite.
4. Galaxy Skin
- Why It’s Iconic: It was literally out of this world—and extremely rare.
- First Appearance: Released as a Samsung Galaxy Note 9 & Tab S4 promotion.
- What Makes It Special: You could only get this skin by buying specific Samsung devices, which made it both expensive and rare. Its cosmic, animated design remains one of the most visually stunning skins ever.
5. Spider-Man (No Way Home & Classic Versions)
- Why It’s Iconic: Marvel + Fortnite = instant classic.
- First Appearance: Chapter 3, Season 1 – Battle Pass & Item Shop.
- What Makes It Special: Spider-Man’s appearance was a long time coming and it didn’t disappoint. With both the classic red-and-blue suit and Tom Holland’s MCU look, this skin checked every box for Marvel fans.
6. John Wick / The Reaper
- Why It’s Iconic: The Reaper was Fortnite’s unofficial “John Wick” before the real one arrived.
- First Appearance: Season 3 – Battle Pass (The Reaper), Item Shop (John Wick).
- What Makes It Special: The Reaper was the original tier 100 grind and became a badge of honor. Later, Epic released the official John Wick skin, bringing the Boogeyman into the Fortnite metaverse.
7. Meowscles
- Why It’s Iconic: A buff cat with a love for dumbbells and laser pointers.
- First Appearance: Chapter 2, Season 2 – Battle Pass.
- What Makes It Special: Meowscles became an instant meme and legend. His absurdity—a muscle-bound humanoid cat—captured the chaotic, hilarious spirit of Fortnite.
8. Peely
Peely is one of the most iconic characters in Fortnite’s history. This walking banana has captured the hearts of players since its introduction to the game. The original Peely skin first appeared during Season 8 and quickly became a fan favorite. Over time, Epic Games has created several variants of Peely for players to enjoy, including Agent Peely, Polar Peely, Unpeely, and the skeletal Peely Bone. Each version offers a unique twist on the beloved character.
The charm of Peely lies in its simple yet distinctive design. It’s literally a banana with arms and legs, managing to be both silly and cool at the same time. This combination makes Peely stand out among more serious or complex skins. While many players consider the original Peely to be the best version, Potassius Peels also receives high praise. This Roman-themed Peely provides a unique historical spin that many find appealing.
Peely’s popularity goes beyond gameplay; the character has appeared in various Fortnite promotional materials, short films, and merchandise. This widespread presence demonstrates how significant Peely has become to the Fortnite brand. Players often choose Peely when they want to have fun rather than appear threatening. The skin’s bright yellow color makes it easy to spot, which may not always be tactical, but it certainly makes a statement on the battlefield.
Some competitive players avoid using Peely due to its larger frame, which can make it harder to hide. However, casual players generally prioritize fun over strategic advantages. For those looking to collect all versions, it’s important to note that most Peely skins were available through Battle Passes or special events. As a result, some variants may not return to the Item Shop, making them relatively rare.
- Why It’s Iconic: A walking banana that grew into a Fortnite mascot.
- First Appearance: Season 8 – Battle Pass.
- What Makes It Special: Peely started as a joke skin but became a recurring character in Fortnite’s evolving lore. Variants like Agent Peely, Unpeely, and Peely Bone cemented him as an icon.
9. Travis Scott
Travis Scott is one of the most popular Icon Series skins in Fortnite. The rapper’s virtual character made a significant impact when it first debuted in the game. Players appreciate this skin for its unique style and its connection to the famous musician. According to player ratings, Travis Scott is ranked as the 4th best outfit in Fortnite, boasting an approval rating of nearly 80%.
The skin offers various style options that players can choose from, each providing a distinct look while maintaining the Travis Scott vibe that fans love. Many gamers create special outfit combinations using this skin. Content creators have produced videos showcasing different Travis Scott skin combos paired with various back blings, pickaxes, and other accessories.
However, not everyone is a fan of the skin. Some players question its appeal, finding the design less impressive than its popularity suggests. The Travis Scott skin gained additional fame from the spectacular in-game concert event hosted by Epic Games, which helped solidify the skin’s status as a highly sought-after cosmetic item.
When comparing the different versions of the skin, players often debate which style they prefer. The standard version and the reactive Astro Jack variant both have strong followings. The skin remains relatively rare, as it hasn’t returned to the item shop frequently, which adds to its allure among collectors and Travis Scott fans.
- Why It’s Iconic: More than a skin—it was part of a cultural moment.
- First Appearance: April 2020 – Astronomical Event.
- What Makes It Special: Released during the in-game Travis Scott concert, this skin became a status symbol. The event broke records, and the skin’s design with reactive lighting and signature poses made it a standout.
10. Harley Quinn (Rebirth Style)
- Why It’s Iconic: Perfect crossover appeal with clean execution.
- First Appearance: February 2020 – Item Shop.
- What Makes It Special: Harley’s Rebirth variant came from a comic book crossover and struck a balance between edgy and vibrant. A top pick for DC fans.
Honorable Mentions:
- Black Knight (Season 2 – The OG “sweat” skin)
- The Foundation (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson cameo)
- Lynx (Customizable and stylish)
- Fishstick (The meme legend)
- Goku & Naruto Skins (Broke the internet when anime hit Fortnite)
These skins aren’t just about looks—they tell a story, mark a moment, or define an era. Whether you’re into flexing rare outfits or showing off fandom pride, these are the best skins Fortnite has ever offered.
Other Great Skins
11. Lara Croft
Lara Croft brings the adventure of Tomb Raider into the Fortnite universe with multiple style options for players. She first appeared in Chapter 2, Season 6 as part of the Battle Pass released on March 16, 2021.
The original Lara Croft skin features her iconic look while offering various styles to match different eras of the character. Players can unlock her classic teal top and shorts outfit as an edit style, bringing nostalgia to longtime Tomb Raider fans.
What makes Lara stand out is the different versions available. The survivor style shows her gritty, determined look from the reboot series. There’s even a retro graphics version that mimics her polygonal appearance from the early games.
Many players prefer the “Survivor Lara” style because it includes the option to switch to her classic look. This versatility gives players two skins in one, making it a valuable Battle Pass item.
A newer version called “Lara Croft (2000s)” was later added to the Item Shop. This version captures her appearance from the middle era of Tomb Raider games, offering yet another option for fans of the character.
When choosing gear to match with Lara, players often look for items that complement her adventurous explorer theme. Backpacks, pickaxes with ancient designs, and earthy color schemes tend to work well with her outfits.
Her popularity stems from being a legendary gaming character brought faithfully into the Fortnite world. The iconic Tomb Raider herself fits perfectly into Fortnite’s action-packed gameplay.
Players who missed getting her from the Battle Pass watch for the 2000s version to return to the Item Shop. Her catchphrase in the game states, “The extraordinary is in what we do, not who we are,” capturing the essence of her character.
12. Black Knight
The Black Knight is one of the most iconic outfits in Fortnite. Players could unlock this legendary skin by reaching Tier 70 in Season 2’s Battle Pass, making it a symbol of gaming dedication.
Known as “the odious scourge of Wailing Woods,” the Black Knight features a menacing black armor design with red accents. The outfit comes with the Black Shield back bling, which many players consider one of the most versatile back blings in the game.
What makes the Black Knight special is its rarity. Since it was only available during Season 2, which ended years ago, seeing this skin in a match usually means facing an experienced player.
Recently, Epic Games created a Black Knight Remake skin, which many fans believe looks even better than the original. The remake features more detailed armor that better resembles a true knight.
The Black Knight works well with many cosmetic combinations. Players often pair it with dark-themed items to create a cohesive loadout including matching pickaxes, gliders, and weapon wraps.
This skin consistently ranks among the top knight skins in Fortnite due to its clean design, historical significance, and status symbol within the community. Its simple yet intimidating appearance has stood the test of time.
Despite newer, flashier skins being released regularly, the Black Knight maintains its place as one of the most respected outfits in the game. It represents both Fortnite’s early days and the dedication of long-term players.
13. Abstrakt
Abstrakt is an Epic Outfit in Fortnite that brings street art style to the battlefield. This graffiti-themed skin first appeared in Season 4 and has been a popular choice among players who enjoy urban aesthetics.
The skin features a male character wearing a paint-splattered hoodie and a face mask. Its most distinctive features are the vibrant colors and graffiti patterns that make it stand out from more traditional outfits.
Players can purchase Abstrakt from the Item Shop for 1,500 V-Bucks when available. It was last seen in the shop on February 1, 2025, about 46 days ago as of the current date.
Abstrakt comes with the Tag Bag Back Bling, completing the street artist look. The skin has appeared in the shop 64 times since its initial release on May 13, 2018, showing its continued popularity.
For players looking to create great outfit combinations, Abstrakt offers versatility. The Assassin Violet style provides additional options for matching with other cosmetics in your locker.
Reddit users have discussed various skin combinations for Abstrakt, showing the community’s continued interest in finding the perfect look for this character.
The skin is also available in the Aerosol Assassins Bundle for 2,500 V-Bucks, which offers better value for players who want the complete set of matching items.
Fall 2020 saw updated combo suggestions for the Abstrakt skin, demonstrating how this outfit has remained relevant through multiple seasons and years.
With its unique design and street art theme, Abstrakt remains a solid choice for players who want to express creativity on the battlefield.
14. Agent Peely
Agent Peely brings spy action to the banana-themed lineup of Fortnite skins. This suave character appeared during Chapter 2, Season 2 as part of the spy-themed Battle Pass.
What makes Agent Peely special is his James Bond-inspired look. The skin features our favorite banana dressed in a sleek black tuxedo, complete with a bow tie and formal attire. He’s ready for both combat and cocktail parties!
Agent Peely ranks as the third most used Peely variant according to usage statistics. Players seem to appreciate his sophisticated style compared to the more casual original Peely.
The skin comes with three different styles that players can unlock. These styles show Agent Peely at different “ripeness” levels, giving players options to match their mood or game strategy.
Many Fortnite fans consider Agent Peely one of the more creative takes on the character. The contrast between the silly banana concept and serious spy aesthetic creates a fun visual joke that resonates with players.
Agent Peely fits perfectly within Fortnite’s tradition of taking familiar characters and giving them unexpected makeovers. The skin represents Epic Games’ talent for balancing humor with cool design elements.
For collectors of Peely variants, Agent Peely stands as a must-have addition. While not as wild as some newer versions like Peelverine, he maintains a classic appeal that has kept him relevant in the game.
Players who missed getting Agent Peely during his initial Battle Pass release unfortunately have limited options to obtain him now, making him somewhat rare in current matches.
15. John Cena
The John Cena skin joined Fortnite’s lineup during Chapter 3, Season 3, releasing on July 29, 2022. This popular WWE superstar skin comes with the WWE Championship Title Back Bling, making it a hit among wrestling fans.
John Cena was last seen in the Fortnite Item Shop on June 23, 2024, which was about 270 days ago. Players who missed their chance to grab it will need to wait for its next rotation.
The skin perfectly captures Cena’s iconic look and has become a favorite for many players. Fans particularly appreciate the attention to detail in recreating his wrestling persona.
Players have created numerous combo options with the John Cena outfit. Creative Fortnite enthusiasts have paired it with various items to make unique loadouts that complement his wrestling theme.
Some players have even expressed interest in expanding the John Cena set with additional wrestling-themed skins like Asuka with different facepaint options or Macho Man Randy Savage. This shows the popularity of wrestling crossovers in the game.
John Cena stands among other celebrity skins like Ariana Grande and the Dragon Ball Super characters that have made their way into Fortnite. These collaborations bring real-world personalities into the battle royale experience.
For players looking to make the most of this skin, there are excellent combo suggestions available online. These combinations help create a cohesive look that enhances the John Cena experience in-game.
While some fans feel the skin could use improvements, it remains a solid choice for WWE fans who want to represent their favorite wrestler in the battle royale arena.
16. Spider Gwen
Spider Gwen stands out as one of the most popular Marvel characters in Fortnite. She arrived in Chapter 3, Season 4 as a Tier 100 Battle Pass reward, making her a prestigious skin to own.
The design stays true to her comic book appearance with a sleek white and black suit accented by pink and blue details. Her hood and mask combo gives players a distinctive silhouette that’s easily recognizable across the island.
Many players rank Spider Gwen highly among the Marvel Series outfits. In community rankings, she often appears near the top of Spider-Man skin lists, sometimes even beating out the classic Spider-Man skin.
What makes this skin special is the attention to detail. From the web patterns to the animated hood physics, Epic Games put significant effort into capturing the character’s essence from the Spider-Verse.
The skin offers good competitive advantages too. Its clean design doesn’t obstruct vision, and the white portions aren’t overly bright to give away positions during gameplay.
Spider Gwen pairs well with numerous back blings and pickaxes. Many creators have showcased excellent skin combinations that complement her unique color scheme.
While some debated whether she deserved the Tier 100 spot, most players agree that her popularity in other media and polished in-game design justified the placement. The skin represents a perfect blend of fan service and quality execution.
For collectors of Marvel cosmetics in Fortnite, Spider Gwen remains a must-have addition that continues to be used frequently even seasons after her initial release.
17. Fishstick
Fishstick has become one of the most recognizable characters in Fortnite since his debut. This quirky, orange fish-man stands out from the crowd with his bulging eyes and distinctive look.
Players love Fishstick for his uniqueness compared to the many human characters in the game. His comical appearance makes him an instant hit in matches.
The original Fishstick skin has spawned a whole family of fish-themed outfits. Some popular variations include Contract Giller, Frozen Fishstick, and Gummy Fishstick.
Gummy Fishstick has gained significant popularity among players. Many fans consider it their favorite version due to its smooth, candy-like appearance.
The skin’s popularity has made it a recurring theme in the Fortnite universe. Epic Games frequently releases new Fishstick variants during special events and seasonal updates.
Community engagement with Fishstick remains strong years after his introduction. Players often debate their favorite version on forums and social media.
Fishstick’s charm extends beyond just his appearance. His reactive animations and expressions add personality that many other skins lack.
The character has become so iconic that he’s featured in official Fortnite merchandise. From action figures to clothing, Fishstick has swum beyond the digital world.
For collectors, acquiring all Fishstick variants has become a mission. Each version offers something unique while maintaining the core fish-man design that players enjoy.
How Fortnite Skins Enhance Gameplay
Fortnite skins do more than just change how players look in the game. They can affect confidence, gameplay experience, and even how other players react during matches.
Psychological Impact on Players
Wearing a skin you like can boost your confidence in Fortnite battles. Many players report feeling more comfortable and less nervous when using their favorite character designs. This mental edge can make a real difference during high-pressure moments.
Some skins create a psychological advantage through their visual design. Darker or slimmer skins might help players feel less visible to opponents. This perceived advantage translates into more aggressive gameplay and better performance.
The “skin confidence effect” isn’t just imagination. When players feel good about their appearance, they often play more boldly. This explains why many competitive players have specific “lucky” skins they wear during tournaments.
Certain skins can also affect opponents. Rare or intimidating skins might make less experienced players hesitate during encounters, giving the wearer a split-second advantage.
Skins and Player Identity
Skins have become a core part of player identity in Fortnite. Many streamers and pro players are known for their signature skins, creating recognizable personas within the game community.
This identity connection provides psychological confidence that enhances gameplay. Players who strongly identify with their character often report feeling more invested in matches and playing more consistently.
Different skins suit different playstyles. Aggressive players might choose bold, colorful designs while strategic players might prefer more subdued options. This alignment between skin and playstyle reinforces a player’s game identity.
Some players even switch skins based on their mood or game mode. A collection of skins allows players to express themselves differently depending on whether they’re playing casually or competing seriously.
The Evolution of Cosmetic Items in Fortnite
Fortnite’s cosmetic items have transformed dramatically since the game’s launch. Starting with basic outfits, the game now features elaborate skins, emotes, and accessories that let players express themselves.
Historical Development
In 2017, when Fortnite first launched, cosmetic options were limited to a handful of basic outfits. The default character models with slight color variations made up most of what players could choose from. Season 2 marked a turning point with the introduction of the first Battle Pass, which included the iconic Black Knight skin.
Each new season brought more complex designs. Season 4 introduced superhero themes, while Season 5 expanded into different historical eras. The art style evolved from simple designs to more detailed and animated outfits.
By 2019, animated “reactive” skins appeared. These changed appearance based on player actions like eliminations or storm circle phases. Customizable styles also became common, letting players modify parts of their skins.
Collaborations and Exclusive Releases
Fortnite’s biggest cosmetic evolution came through brand partnerships. Starting with Marvel’s Thanos in 2018, collaborations have expanded to include nearly every major entertainment franchise. These highly rated cosmetics often become the most sought-after in the game.
Music artists like Travis Scott and Marshmello got their own skins tied to in-game concerts. Movie tie-ins brought characters from Star Wars, John Wick, and Stranger Things. Gaming crossovers added Kratos, Master Chief, and Lara Croft to the lineup.
Limited-time exclusive releases create high demand. The Travis Scott skin, available only during his Astronomical event, became one of the most coveted items. Seasonal exclusives like Halloween and Christmas skins return annually, often with new styles.
Tournament exclusives reward competitive players with unique cosmetics that can’t be purchased, adding another dimension to Fortnite’s evolving cosmetic ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players often wonder about the best skins in Fortnite and how to get them. Here are answers to common questions about top skins, rarity factors, and what makes certain outfits stand out from the rest.
What are some of the top-rated Fortnite skins as of 2025?
Based on community votes and popularity, several skins consistently rank at the top of player favorites. Midas remains one of the most beloved skins with his golden touch ability and sleek design.
The Lara Croft outfit continues to be popular for its tactical advantage. Many players find her natural coloring makes her harder to spot in certain environments.
Black Knight still commands respect as one of the original season pass ultimates. Travis Scott’s reactive features and concert tie-in keep it in high demand years after its initial release.
Peely, the banana character, maintains its cult following for its unique and humorous design. Its various versions, including the frozen and agent styles, add to its appeal.
How can you obtain rare and exclusive skins in Fortnite?
Battle Pass skins are available only during their specific season. Once a season ends, these skins typically don’t return to the item shop, making them exclusive to players who earned them.
Limited-time event skins can be obtained during special collaborations or holiday events. These usually require completing specific challenges or making purchases during the event window.
Some exclusive skins come from promotional tie-ins with other companies. These might require purchasing physical products, subscribing to services, or participating in partner promotions.
Tournament rewards offer another path to rare skins. Players who perform well in competitive events can earn exclusive cosmetics that aren’t available through other means.
Which Fortnite skins are considered the rarest in the game’s history?
The Aerial Assault Trooper and Renegade Raider from Season 1 shop are extremely rare. These were available before the Battle Pass system and required reaching specific season levels to purchase.
Galaxy skin, tied to Samsung device purchases in 2018, remains one of the rarest promotional skins. Its limited availability window and device requirements make it a true collector’s item.
Wonder Woman from early tournament exclusives ranks among the rarest skins. Few players managed to earn it through the competitive requirements.
Holiday-specific skins from the first year, like Ghoul Trooper and Skull Trooper, maintain their rare status. Although they’ve returned in later years, original owners received exclusive style options.
What criteria do players typically use to decide the best skins in Fortnite?
Visual appeal is the most obvious factor, with striking designs and color schemes often attracting players. Unique animations or reactive features can make a skin stand out.
Tactical advantage plays a surprising role in skin selection. Slimmer models or darker-colored skins may be harder to spot in certain lighting or environments.
Rarity and exclusivity factor heavily into perceived value. Skins that fewer players own often carry more prestige in the community.
Personal connection to characters from collaborations like Marvel, Star Wars, or music artists drives many purchases. These crossover skins allow players to represent their interests beyond Fortnite.
What are the most sought-after Fortnite skins during recent in-game events?
The Metallica collaboration skins broke records for event purchases. Their reactive features that change with eliminations made them instantly popular.
Spider-Verse event skins became incredibly sought-after with their cel-shaded art style. The unique visual effect set them apart from standard skins.
The recent anime crossover brought several highly desired character skins. These outfits featured special cell-shading and unique emotes that captured the essence of their source material.
Limited-time movie tie-in skins continue to drive massive interest. The recent designs feature advanced physics for clothing and hair that show off the game’s technical improvements.
How does Epic Games decide on the design and features of new Fortnite skins?
Epic Games closely monitors community feedback and trends when designing new skins. Popular themes and requests often influence upcoming releases.
Seasonal themes provide direction for many skin designs. Each Battle Pass centers around a cohesive story or visual style that shapes character appearances.
Collaborations with brands, films, or celebrities involve working with external creative teams. These partnerships must balance staying true to the original character while fitting into Fortnite’s aesthetic.
Technical considerations affect skin design choices. New features like reactive elements, custom animations, or physics-based components must work within the game’s performance requirements.
