The Icelandic horse usually ranges from 12.2 to 14.1 hands. Its robust rectangular build means that most horses can easily carry adult riders. And the Icelandic horse comes in a glorious variety of colors— chestnut, black, bay, gray, silver dapple, dun, buckskin, cream, roan, pinto, and more. The Icelandic language has more than 100 names for the colors of the Icelandic horse. International Icelandic breeding standards call for a horse that is “willing, brave, happy, cheerful, confident, and offers its best with very little encouragement. The horse tries to please the rider, is sensible, easy to ride and handle.” Character is an important part of the breed’s attraction. When you first ride an Icelandic horse, you will be surprised at its smoothness and speed Because of its gaits and temperament, the Icelandic horse is wonderfully versatile. At today’s exciting sports competitions—judged by international standards—owners and breeders show off the fast, fluid gaits of their Icelandic horses. These same gaits make Icelandic horses superb trail horses: reliable, steady, and agile, yet with plenty of speed if requested. Tölting down a country lane with friends will put a smile on your face. The Icelandic horse is unique in the gaited horse world in having up to five gaits: walk, trot, canter, tölt, and flying pace. Tölt is an even four- beat gait with no suspension. Ideally, the tölt is supple and fast, with high and ground-covering leg action. The horse should be able to tölt at multiple speeds. The flying pace is a two-beat lateral gait with clear suspension; it is fast, fluid, and suitable for racing. Not all Icelandic horses can perform the flying pace. As Icelandic horses become increasingly popular, their owners are exploring the gamut of equestrian activities. Icelandic horses can trot their way to a ribbon at lower level dressage class and then tölt to a win a gaited dressage class. A few Icelandic horses have achieved 1000s of miles of long distance endurance. Other riders and their Icelandic horses are ranked nationally at trail obstacle competitions. Many Icelandics are outstanding driving horses—pulling both sleighs and carts or even a person on skis (skijoring). Icelandic owners are having a blast participating in cattle sorting, low level eventing, trick training, and other adventures. The Icelandic horse is a wonderful partner—fun, dependable, and comfortable to ride. Try riding one of these little “sports cars” of the equine world and discover the charm of the Icelandic horse for yourself. Walk Tölt Trot Canter Pace