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The Paso Fino is a beautiful, naturally-gaited horse with a history dating back many centuries to Spain. The Paso Fino is a mix of the Barb, Spanish Jennet, and Andalusian and was bred by Spanish land owners Puerto Rico and Colombia to be used in the plantations because of their endurance and the comfortable ride they provided. The rise of the Paso Fino in the United States began in the 1950s and 1960s, and today, the Paso Fino Horse Association oversees and regulates registered Paso Finos there. Its aficionados claim that the Paso Fino is the smoothest riding horse in the world because of its natural, four beat gait that can be performed at varying speeds. The classic fino is a collected gait with rapid footfall that covers little ground but is showy. The paso corto is a moderate gait good for trail riding, and the paso largo is a fast gait in which the horse can reach speeds equivalent to a canter or slow gallop. Not all paso finos can perform the classic fino, but the majority perform the other gaits with ease. These horses are versatile and can be used for trail riding, endurance riding, or in the show ring. This is a lively horse that has a natural drive and willingness, known colloquially as "brio" |
