Arias Pasofino
The pasofino is generally considered one of the world’s smoothest gated horses. The horse reflects the passion of its Spanish heritage with its graceful, elegant, and adrenalizing presence. The pasofino is an extremely willing horse that genuinely enjoys union companionship and strives to please. The horse is extremely responsive and sensible under saddle and is thus extremely versatile. The pasofino’s controlled spirit, natural smooth gait, and exceptional beauty has increased its popularity in the show ring as well as a pleasure horse. Pasofino horses are highly competitive in hundred mile endurance rides, sponsored by the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) and the competitive trail rides, sponsored by the North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC). The horse’s intelligence, balance, and extraordinary gait makes the crowd favorites in equestrian exhibitions, drill team exhibitions, and parades. The horse is often considered a living, moving piece of art that is also a devoted companion in source of joy in pride for his owner.
Pasofino’s Unique Gait
The pasofino can perform any gait performed by other horses, including a collective walk, canter and gallop. However, it also is born with an ability to perform several exceptional gaits unique to the breed. The gait of the pasofino is totally natural and normally exhibited from birth. When the gait is executed properly, it results in an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride. The rider appears virtually motionless in the saddle with no up and down movement. This results in an incredible ride for people of all ages, including senior riders that have experienced back injuries. There have been numerous exhibitions in which the rider is able to sip from his cup of expresso or glass of wine while riding his pasofino horse.
The pasofino gait is performed at three forward speeds with varying degrees of collection. All three gaits are smooth, rhythmic and and synchronous front to rear.
1) The Classic Fino gait is executed with a horse having very slow forward movement.
The footfall is extremely fast while the steps and extension are very short. The classic fino gait requires the most athleticism in the horse and cannot be performed by all pasofinos.
2) The Paso Corto is done at moderate forward speed with full to moderate collection.
The steps covered ground, but are not hurried.The gait is executed with medium extension and stride.
3) The Paso Largo is the fastest of the three gaits and is executed with longer extension and stride. The horse has moderate to minimal collection. The forward speed can vary from horse to horse, but should be in harmony with the individual stride and cadence