About the Paso Fino Horse
The History of the Paso Fino
The Paso Fino’s journey to the
These breeds were the foundation stock for the remount stations of the Conquistadors. Bred for stamina, beauty and smooth gait these horses spread through out the Greater Antilles where centuries of selective breeding produced variations of the smooth gaited horses which became known under a variety of names.
As Americans became aware of these horses they started importing them from their countries of origin. Horses were imported from
The Paso Fino of today reflects its Spanish Heritage through its upright carriage, elegance, intelligence and stamina, but what really makes the Paso Fino special is its “natural four-beat gait”.
While Paso Finos can canter and gallop like other horses, it is this smooth, natural four-beat gait that distinguishes the Paso Fino from all other horses in the world.
To ride a Paso Fino is to experience the smoothest ride imaginable. One you can ride for hours without tiring.
If you would like to experience the amazing Paso Fino or have any questions then please contact us at. delosmejores@windstream.net
Pictured is Yocunda. Yocunda was one of the imports that Merridian Meadows brought to the US.. As can be seen from the picture she was very athletic.
The Paso Fino Gait
The gait of the Paso Fino horse is totally natural and normally exhibited from birth. It is an evenly-spaced four-beat lateral gait with each foot contacting the ground independently in a regular sequence at precise intervals creating a rapid, unbroken rhythm. Executed perfectly, the four hoof beats are absolutely even in both cadence and impact, resulting in unequaled smoothness and comfort for the rider
The Paso Fino gait is performed at three forward speeds and with varying degrees of collection. In all speeds of the gait, the rider should appear virtually motionless in the saddle, and there should be no perceptible up and down motion of the horse’s croup
Classic Fino - Full collection, with very slow forward speed. The footfall is extremely rapid while the steps and extension are exceedingly short
Paso Corto - Forward speed is moderate, with full to moderate collection. Steps are ground-covering but unhurried, executed with medium extension and stride.
Paso Largo - The fastest speed of the gait, executed with a longer extension and stride, and moderate to minimal collection. Forward speed varies with the individual horse, since each horse should attain its top speed in harmony with its own natural stride and cadence.
The Paso Fino is capable of executing all gaits that are natural to horses, including the relaxed walk and lope or canter. This ability to do such a variety of gaits allows the Paso Fino to be so versatile and why you see Paso Finos competing in a variety of classes at Paso Fino Horse Association sponsored shows, including Trail, Versatility, Costume and Pleasure Driving. You will also see Paso Finos competing and winning in competitive trail riding, endurance, cow penning and mounted shooting.
El Mejor DLM
Champion Bella Forma Stallion
Paso Fino Breed Standard
General Impression: Smooth, natural gait that is unique to the breed. Movement is balanced and in-sync.
Size: 13 to 15.2 hands with 13.3 to 14.2 being the most typical size. Weight is 700 to 1000 pounds. Full size may not be attained until the fifth year.
Color: Every equine color can be found, with or without white markings.
Disposition: The Paso Fino is an extremely willing horse that truly seems to enjoy human companionship and strives to please. It is spirited and responsive under tack while sensible and gentle at hand.
Mane, Tail, and Forelock: They are as long, full, and luxurious as nature can provide. No artificial additions are allowed.
Head: Well-shaped, alert, and intelligent face. The head is refined and in proportion to the body, with a defined, but not extreme jaw, and large, expressive eyes.
Neck: Gracefully arched, medium in length, and allowing for a high carriage.
Forehand: Shoulders slope into the withers with great depth through the hearth.
Midsection: The top line should be proportionately shorter than the underline. The back is strong and muscled.
Hindquarters: The croup is slightly sloping with rounded loins, broad hips, and strong hocks. The tail is carried gracefully when in motion.
Legs: Straight with refined bones, strong, well-defined tendons, and broad, long forearms with shorter cannons. The thigh and gaskin are strong and muscled but not exaggerated. Pasterns are sloping and medium in length.
De Los Mejores Paso Fino Horse Ranch
803-475-1136
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