The Gravis² paraglider by ICARO is positioned as the “heart of the B-class,” designed to blend above-average performance with high passive safety and user-friendliness. It caters to a broad range of pilots, from hike-and-fly enthusiasts seeking lightweight gear to newcomers to cross-country (XC) flying and experienced pilots preferring mid-B safety without major performance trade-offs. Additionally, it appeals to flatland pilots as an all-rounder and is paramotor-certified in select sizes.
Design and Technical Features
ICARO’s Gravis² adopts a design focus balancing stability, handling, and glide efficiency. With a slightly increased cell count compared to its predecessor, a shark nose profile, and revised internal structure, it maintains constant internal pressure over a wide range of angles of attack. This design enhances stability, particularly in turbulence, making it a stress-free and forgiving wing. Brake inputs provide precision and direct feedback, facilitating efficient thermal centering and agile yet controlled handling.
Technical specifications are consistent across all sizes (XS to L), featuring a flat aspect ratio of 5.4 and a projected aspect ratio of 3.9. The wing’s flat surface area ranges between 22 to 30 m², with projected areas from approximately 18.75 to 25.57 m². The flat span extends from 10.9 m in the XS model to 12.72 m in the L model. Weights are lightweight (3.9–4.6 kg) thanks to modern STA15 sailcloth and optimized internal structure, suitable for walk-and-fly activities. The wing includes 42 + 40 cells, a 2-cell-bridge V-tape system, mini-ribs, and a 3+1 riser configuration with a speed system. It does not have trimmers but supports winch towing.
Performance and Certification
The Gravis² offers a performance envelope typical of a modern mid-B wing: a trim speed around 39 km/h and a maximum accelerated speed exceeding 50 km/h. Speedbar travel ranges from 135 mm in smaller sizes to 150 mm in the L size. All sizes hold EN-B certification under EN 926-1:2015 and EN 926-2:2014 standards, with additional motor certification (DGAC) for sizes M, M/L, and L. The extended weight range concept allows pilots to select a more relaxed feel within the recommended range or a dynamic, faster character in the extended range, tailoring flight characteristics to pilot preference.
Customer Reviews and Pilot Feedback
Overall Impression
Pilot feedback is predominantly positive, applauding the Gravis² as a well-balanced EN-B wing with more performance than typical low-B models, yet retaining forgiving and confidence-inspiring characteristics. It attracts progressing pilots and those seeking comfort for thermal and leisure flights, alongside cross-country pilots wanting reliable passive safety.
Key Advantages
- Safety and Comfort: The wing is consistently described as calm and forgiving in active air, effectively absorbing turbulence and minimizing penalization for pilot errors, ideal for pilot progression and relaxed flying.
- Handling and Fun: Handling is precise and enjoyable; responsive in thermals and wingovers without nervousness. Brake pressure is moderate with good feedback, enhancing comfort for long flights. Turning is smooth and clean, aiding thermal centering.
- Performance for Class: Pilots report glide and speed on par with the upper EN-B range and close to some high-B wings. Thermal climb performance is regarded as very good, requiring less constant adjustment.
- Launch and Ground Handling: Inflation is easy and progressive with predictable takeoff behavior, favoring walk-and-fly pilots and those flying from challenging sites.
- Build Quality and Weight: Excellent finishing, stitching, and line layout. The use of modern lightweight materials achieves a good balance of durability and pack volume.
Criticisms and Considerations
- Performance Ceiling: Some advanced XC pilots find that the Gravis² does not quite reach the peak performance of the fastest high-B wings, suggesting it may not suit competition-driven pilots.
- Feedback vs. Comfort: A minority desires crisper feedback in weak or technical conditions, feeling the wing’s damped behavior mutes air reading capability somewhat.
- Weight Range Sensitivity: Reports indicate the wing performs optimally in the mid to upper weight range; flown very light, it may feel slower to react and too damp.
- Speed-Bar Feel: Although stable, some pilots note the speed system’s feel differs from other brands, a subjective preference rather than a fault.
Use Cases and Pilot Profiles
Instructors and experienced pilots recommend the Gravis² as a progression wing after an entry-level EN-A or very low-B, providing safety reserves without limiting performance. It suits as a versatile all-round EN-B wing for local soaring, thermalling, and moderate XC flights rather than a race or lightweight hike-only glider. Its lightweight and manageable launch features are also praised by hike-and-fly enthusiasts.
Visual Design and Packaging
The wing continues ICARO’s branding with the Edelweiss-inspired graphic element, available in two distinctive color schemes, enhancing visibility in the air. The purchase package includes the wing, packing belt, inner and riser bags, repair kit, and a backpack, enabling immediate readiness for flight.
Conclusion
The ICARO Gravis² stands out as a modern, lightweight mid-B paraglider offering a strong balance of safety, performance, and enjoyable handling. While it is not designed to outperform the fastest high-B wings, it excels as a reliable, fun, and comfortable "do-it-all" wing for progressing and cross-country pilots valuing predictability, security, and versatility.
For more detailed specifications, user manuals, and imagery, visit the manufacturer's website. To order the Gravis² or explore related paragliding equipment, visit Paragliding.me.