Paso Fino - What for?

Usage and riding a Paso Fino The Paso Fino is a very versatile breed; their easiness, sure-footedness and smooth gaits make the Paso Fino into ideal trail horses. Small jumps over e.g. logs are also no problem. Their handy size and gentle character turn them into ideal family horses and reliable leisure time companions.

Well trained horses can even manage mid-range endurance rides without difficulties. Also Western riders will love them: Thanks to their suppleness and agility they can be used for reining and barrel race disciplines. Since Paso Finos are still frequently used as working horses on cattle farms in Latin America, they are also talented cow horses.

Due to their natural ability to collect themselves, Paso Finos can also be taught classic dressage movements by experienced riders. Their extremely smooth gaits make Paso Finos increasingly popular among people who suffer from back problems, even outside the USA. Paso Finos are often used for therapeutic riding, too. They also look very elegant in front of a light sulky or under a side saddle.

And of course the Paso Fino ist he perfect horse to shine at gaited horse shows. No matter if performing at classic fino or flying in a fast Paso Largo a Paso Fino will excite riders and spectators alike. In all classes the primary focus lies on the smooth, clear, rhythmic, cadenced, even-spaced 4-beat lateral gait – the trademark of the Paso Fino.

His unique gait and characteristics turn the Paso Fino into an ideal equine partner who will please the ambitious show rider as well as the trail rider looking for a comfortable and easy-to-ride horse. Paso Finos are suitable for all disciplines. During the basic training the focus should be on suppleness, flexibility and a rhythmic, clear, cadenced four-beat lateral gait. The traditional way of riding a Paso Fino is similar to Western riding. Light rein contact is required but no pressure. Otherwise minimal aids, primarily body aids suffice.

In training – be it basic or advanced training – the focus primarily lies on the horse’s balance, suppleness and conditioning. Most horses begin their under saddle training at the age of 3 or 4 years and are started in a bosal without using a bit. Bits are generally introduced only if the horse responds well to all rider’s aids when ridden with a bosal. The desirable collection is achieved by balance, suppleness and conditioning during the horse’s basic training years. The horse is taught to carry himself at light rein contact. The Paso Fino should gait naturally and rhythmically without any form of manipulation (such as shoes, side reins, weights etc.).

Paso Finos can be kept in open stalls without problems. Even if they originally come from warmer climates they quickly adjust to their European environment and can be kept in open stalls even in winter time. As for most southern breeds they need a protected, dry and draught-free shelter and must be fed accordingly. Generally Paso Finos are easy keepers.