🌟 The Rhythm of Elegance: Paso Fino Gaits and Show Classes at Smooth Moves Ranch 🌟

At Smooth Moves Ranch, we celebrate the Paso Fino not just for it's beauty but for the remarkable way it moves. Known for their ultra-smooth, four-beat lateral gait, Paso Finos offer a rare combination of elegance, stamina, and spirit. Whether you're watching one in the show ring or riding one down a wooded trail, their signature gaits leave a lasting impression. If you’ve ever wondered why they’re often called “the smoothest riding horse in the world,” or how they’re showcased in competitions, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the unique gaits of the Paso Fino and the show classes that highlight their incredible talents.

Paso Finos naturally perform three distinct gaits, each with its own purpose and style. The most iconic of these is the Classic Fino, a highly collected gait with rapid footfalls and very little forward motion. It’s not a gait every Paso Fino can perform, only those with exceptional natural talent and dedicated training can truly shine in this discipline. The Paso Corto is a medium-speed gait that’s ideal for trail rides and all-around pleasure. It covers more ground than the Classic Fino while maintaining the smooth, four-beat cadence that makes Paso Finos famous. Lastly, the Paso Largo is the fastest of the gaits. It’s still smooth but demonstrates the horse’s ability to extend its stride and show off its athleticism, with each horse having a different natural top speed in this gait.

When Paso Finos step into the show ring, they’re typically entered into one of three divisions based on their natural ability and training: Fino, Performance, or Pleasure. Each class highlights different strengths within the breed.

The Fino class features horses that perform only the Classic Fino gait. Judges look for incredible precision, rhythm, and collection, with rapid footfalls and minimal forward motion. This class requires a very specific and rare natural ability, making it the most technical and refined of the divisions.

In the Performance class, horses are shown at the Paso Corto, Paso Largo, and a

collected walk. Classic Fino is not required or performed in this class. What sets Performance horses apart is their elevated leg action, brio (a spirited and animated presence), and overall energy. These horses are athletic and expressive, demonstrating collection and control while still covering ground in a smooth, rhythmic manner. It's a thrilling class to watch and showcases the power and charisma of the breed.

The Pleasure class, on the other hand, emphasizes calmness, smoothness, and rideability. Horses in this class perform the Paso Corto, Paso Largo, and a flat walk, all with minimal rein pressure and no exaggerated action. These are the trail horses and family companions—the kind you’d want to ride for miles. Judges evaluate manners, consistency, and comfort, making it a perfect class for riders who appreciate the beauty of a smooth, dependable partner.

Understanding the different gaits and show classes of the Paso Fino helps us appreciate just how diverse and talented this breed truly is. Whether you’re drawn to the technical brilliance of a Fino performer, the power and flair of a Performance horse, or the easy-going charm of a Pleasure mount, there’s a Paso Fino for everyone. At Smooth Moves Ranch, we train, love, and raise horses across all categories, and we’re proud to share their journeys with you, whether you’re visiting in person or joining us on one of our live streams.

So if you’ve ever wanted to experience a horse that moves like silk and connects with heart, we invite you to meet the Paso Finos of Smooth Moves Ranch. Because here, it’s not just about movement,

it’s about meaning. It’s not just a gait. It’s a way of life.