Summary
WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers for THE FLASH #15!UnlikeSuperman, theFlashdoesn’t have a single, definitive weakness. While he’s certainly beatable, there’s never been a specific thing that came to mind when I thought about what his equivalent of Kryptonite might be. However, a piece of official art just made me realize what his greatest vulnerability might be—and it’s something I think even DC has overlooked.
A more realistic approach to Wally’s speedster physiology in DC stories would be to delve into the tangible consequences of his accelerated metabolism.
On July 04, 2025, fans can grab a copy of Si Spurrier and Vasco Georgiev’sThe Flash#15. This issue continues Wally West’s speed-centric adventures, as he juggles his “new role on the Watchtower” with a family vacation, while also encountering an old foe in an unexpected place.
THE FLASH #15 (2024)
Variant Covers:
Dike Ruan & Özgür Yildirim
As the Flash moves between his new role on the Watchtower and the family vacation, he comes across an old foe in a surprising place! Also, Irey West has a hunch her father is sneaking off during the trip, and she’s going to find out just where he’s going…
Adding to the excitement is a standout variant cover by Dike Ruan, depicting The Flash demolishing an all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet. While the cover is hilarious, it also serves asa reminder of every speedster’s greatest weakness—their accelerated metabolism.
Flash Lore’s Biggest Mistake Has Officially Been Retconned (& Replaced With Something Way Cooler)
A big change to the Speed Force’s origin has retconned one of the most controversial parts of Flash lore, redefining the nature of his powers.
I’m Convinced That Flash’s Greatest Weakness Is His Accelerated Metabolism
Cover B Dike Ruan Card Stock Variant forThe Flash#15
Thanks to his speedster powers,Wally—like the other Flashes—requires immense amounts of food to fuel his body and keep up with his accelerated metabolism. DC has established this unique speedster physiology in the past, but it often seems the publisher forgets aboutthis Flash-specific weakness, as it’s rarely mentioned in the narrative or explored in-depth. Ruan’s variant cover is not only amusing but also serves as a much-needed reminder for writers to incorporate this aspect of Wally’s character into the story—Flash should be perpetually hungry.
A more realistic approach to Wally’s speedster physiology in DC stories would be to delve into the tangible consequences of his accelerated metabolism, making it a crucial narrative element. If Wally isn’t properly fueled, he could struggle to access the full extent of his powers, leaving him vulnerable at critical moments. Imagine the Flash beginning to lose steam in the midst of a high-stakes battle, not because of an external threat, but due to something as fundamental as inadequate nutrition.This vulnerability should be given the same weight as Superman’s Kryptonite—a critical weakness with potentially devastating consequences if not properly managed.
How Could Flash Overcome the Consequences of His Accelerated Metabolism? (I Propose a Costume Update)
Cover C Özgür Yildirim Card Stock Variant forThe Flash#15
With Wally’s accelerated metabolism being his greatest weakness, it’s fun to think about potential solutions, and I have more than a few ideas. It would be especially entertaining to see Batman stocking the Watchtower and his utility belt with snacks for Flash-related emergencies. A practical solution could be Wally designing a suit with built-in snack pouches, ensuring he always has emergency fuel on hand. Another creative option would be having DC’s greatest minds, like Batman and Mister Terrific, team up to synthesize supplements tailored to Wally’s speedster needs.Flash’sweakness could be a fun angle for DC to explore.
Flash’s Trippy New Costume Makes Me Desperate to See What’s Coming Next
I don’t know what’s going on with the Flash’s new costume, but I’m excited to see what it means for Flash going into the DC All In era.
The Flash #15will be released from DC Comics on August 21, 2025!
The Flash
The Flash is the superhero name given to the DC Comics character who utilizes unparalleled speed tied to a dimensional power known as the “speed force” to overwhelm their opposition. Premiering in 1939, the original Flash arrived as Jay Garrick. Still, it would be superseded by Barry Allen in popularity and featured status, but the Flash is one character that has met many of their alternate selves. The character is typically seen as a part of the Justice League in nearly all incarnations.
