I’ll never forget the first time I swung into the saddle on a gaited horse. After years of posting trots on Quarter Horses and feeling every jolt on rocky trails, that first effortless glide felt like cheating. No bounce, no jarring—just pure, floating motion. It was a Tennessee Walker named Blue, and from that day on, I was hooked. If you’ve ever come home sore after a long ride or worried about joint issues holding you back, gaited breeds might just change everything for you.
Gaited horses are special because they perform smooth, four-beat intermediate gaits instead of (or in addition to) the standard trot. These ambling gaits—like the running walk, fox trot, or tölt—keep at least one foot on the ground at all times, eliminating the bounce you get from trotting. The result? Hours in the saddle without fatigue. They’re perfect for trail riding, endurance, or anyone who wants comfort without sacrificing style or stamina.
After riding several gaited breeds over the years and talking with trainers, breeders, and fellow trail enthusiasts, here’s my take on the 10 best gaited horse breeds for a smooth ride. I’ve ranked them loosely by overall popularity and rider feedback, but honestly, the “best” depends on what you want—flashy show presence, rugged trail ability, or a family-friendly all-rounder.
What Makes a Horse Gaited?
Gaited horses possess natural intermediate gaits beyond the usual walk, trot, and canter.
These smooth four-beat ambling gaits (like running walk or rack) come from a genetic mutation in the DMRT3 gene, often called the “gait keeper.”
This mutation allows independent leg movement, creating glide-like motion instead of bouncy trot.
Not all gaited horses perform the same way—some excel laterally, others diagonally—but all prioritize rider comfort.
Gaited Horse Breeds Comparison
Here’s a quick overview of the top 10 breeds, highlighting their signature gaits and strengths.
| Rank | Breed | Origin | Height (hands) | Signature Gait | Best For | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tennessee Walking Horse | USA | 14.3–17 | Running Walk | Trails, pleasure, show | Calm, willing |
| 2 | Icelandic Horse | Iceland | 13–14 | Tölt, Flying Pace | Trails, endurance, all terrains | Friendly, hardy |
| 3 | Paso Fino | Puerto Rico/Colombia | 13–15.2 | Classic Fino, Corto, Largo | Pleasure, show, trails | Spirited but gentle |
| 4 | Peruvian Paso | Peru | 14–15.2 | Paso Llano, Sobreandando | Long-distance trails, endurance | Elegant, proud |
| 5 | Missouri Fox Trotter | USA (Missouri) | 14–16 | Fox Trot | Trails, ranch work | Gentle, versatile |
| 6 | American Saddlebred | USA | 15–17 | Rack, Slow Gait | Show, pleasure, driving | Energetic, flashy |
| 7 | Rocky Mountain Horse | USA (Kentucky) | 14–16 | Single-Foot | Trails, family | Docile, easygoing |
| 8 | Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse | USA (Kentucky) | 11–16 | Four-beat amble | Trails, pleasure | Calm, sure-footed |
| 9 | Spotted Saddle Horse | USA | 14.3–16 | Various ambling gaits | Trails, show | Friendly, colorful |
| 10 | Mangalarga Marchador | Brazil | 14.2–16 | Marcha Batida/Picada | Ranch, trails, endurance | Docile, energetic |
1. Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse tops most lists for good reason—their running walk is legendary for smoothness.
Developed in the American South for plantation oversight, these horses cover ground effortlessly at 10–20 mph without breaking gait.
Their nodding head and overstride create a rocking-chair feel that’s addictive.
I’ve logged countless trail miles on Walkers, and even after eight hours, I step off fresh. They’re calm, people-oriented, and versatile.
2. Icelandic Horse
Don’t let their pony size fool you—Icelandics are tough, versatile horses with five gaits, including the ultra-smooth tölt.
The tölt feels like a super-fast walk with no bounce, perfect for rough terrain.
Many also have the flying pace for bursts of speed.
Hardy and long-lived (often into their 30s), they’re ideal for adventurous riders. One summer in Iceland, I tölted across lava fields and never felt a jolt.
3. Paso Fino
Paso Finos are the “smoothest riding horse in the world” to many fans—their rapid, even footfalls create glass-like calm.
They perform three speeds: classic fino (collected), corto (trail), and largo (extended).
Compact and refined, with incredible brio (controlled spirit), they’re show-stoppers yet gentle enough for novices.
4. Peruvian Paso
Often called the smoothest by those who’ve ridden one, Peruvians have an elegant, flowing paso llano with distinctive termino (outward leg swing).
Bred for hacienda overseers covering vast distances, they’re incredibly comfortable and proud-bearing.
Their brio makes them responsive yet mannerly.
5. Missouri Fox Trotter
The fox trot—diagonal front, sliding hind—gives a gliding motion that’s easy on the back.
Developed in the Ozarks for rugged trails, they’re sure-footed, willing workers.
Great for ranch tasks or long rides; their calm nature suits beginners.
6. American Saddlebred
Flashy and athletic, Saddlebreds perform the rack—a fast, even four-beat gait—and slow gait.
They excel in saddle seat shows but also make versatile pleasure horses.
High energy, but trainable and kind.
7. Rocky Mountain Horse
Known for chocolate coats with flaxen manes, Rockies have a gentle single-foot gait.
Bred in Kentucky Appalachians, they’re naturally calm and sure-footed—perfect family trail horses.
8. Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse
Similar to Rockies but with broader color acceptance, they offer smooth four-beat gaits and gentle dispositions.
Great for mountain trails and families.
9. Spotted Saddle Horse
Colorful pintos with gaited smoothness from Walking Horse roots.
Fun, eye-catching trail companions with friendly personalities.
10. Mangalarga Marchador
Brazil’s national horse features marcha batida or picada—super smooth and versatile.
Docile, hardy, and increasingly popular worldwide.
Pros and Cons of Gaited Breeds
Pros:
- Unmatched rider comfort on long rides
- Often calm, willing temperaments
- Sure-footed on rough terrain
- Versatile for trails, endurance, pleasure
Cons:
- Some can be harder to canter smoothly
- Higher risk of certain genetic issues (e.g., MCOA in Rockies)
- Gait quality varies—buy from reputable breeders
- Not ideal for disciplines requiring strong trot (dressage, jumping)
Where to Find Gaited Horses
Start with breed associations like TWHBEA, FEIF (Icelandic), PFHA (Paso Fino), or USMMA (Marchador).
Rescues often have gaited horses needing homes—check Horse Plus Humane Society or local gaited breed rescues.
Reputable breeders focus on natural gait and temperament. Expect $5,000–$15,000+ depending on training and bloodlines.
People Also Ask
What is the smoothest gaited horse breed?
Many say Peruvian Paso or Paso Fino, but it’s subjective—Icelandic tölt and Tennessee running walk are close contenders.
Are gaited horses good for beginners?
Yes—many like Missouri Fox Trotters or Rockies are calm and forgiving.
Do gaited horses trot?
Some can, but they prefer their ambling gait; trotting often feels rougher.
What’s the difference between Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso?
Different origins, slightly different gaits—Fino is rapid and short-strided, Peruvian more flowing.
Can gaited horses jump?
Yes, but not their specialty—many excel in trails or pleasure.
FAQ
How fast can gaited horses go in their smooth gait?
10–20 mph comfortably, depending on breed and individual.
Are gaited horses more expensive?
Not necessarily—good trail horses start around $5,000, similar to non-gaited.
Do gaited horses need special saddles?
Often yes—gaited-specific trees fit their conformation better.
Can you teach a non-gaited horse to gait?
Rarely successfully; it’s genetic.
What’s the best gaited breed for tall riders?
Tennessee Walking Horse or American Saddlebred—often taller frames.
Choosing a gaited breed opened up trail riding for me in ways I never imagined. Whether you want a flashy show partner or a bombproof weekend companion, there’s a smooth-riding breed out there waiting. Take your time, try a few rides, and find the one that makes you smile every step of the way.