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Paso Fino
Paso Fino: The Paso is a naturally gaited light horse breed dating back to horses imported to the Caribbean from Spain. Pasos are prized for their smooth, natural, four beat, lateral ambling gait and are used in many disciplines, but are especially popular for trail riding. The Paso Fino name means 'fine step'. 
The Paso is a blend of the Barb, Spanish Jennet, and Andalusian horse and was bred by Spanish land owners in Puerto Rico and Colombia to be used on the plantations. The first Pasos in the United States were imported in the 1950's by members of the armed services who purchased the horses while stationed in Puerto Rico. This breed is very versatile and can be used in many disciplines, excelling in competitive trail and endurance rides, in dressage work, rodeo and gymkhana. The Paso is a lively horse that has a natural drive and willingness, known colloquially as "brio", and generally a good disposition. Their height ranges from 13 to 15.2 hands with around 14 hands being the most typical size and weight ranging from 700 to 1100 pounds. They can be found in most common horse colors.
The gait of the Paso is totally natural and normally exhibited from birth. It is an evenly-spaced four-beat lateral gait with each foot contacting the ground independently in a regular sequence at precise intervals creating a rapid, unbroken rhythm. The result is an extremely smooth and comfortable ride.
1.Classic Fino - Full collection, with very slow forward speed. The footfall is extremely rapid while the steps and extension are exceedingly short.
2.Paso Corto - Forward speed is moderate, with full to moderate collection. Steps are ground-covering but unhurried, executed with medium extension and stride.
3.Paso Largo - The fastest speed of the gait, executed with a longer extension and stride. Forward speed varies with the individual horse, since each horse should attain its top speed in harmony with its own natural stride and cadence. The Paso Fino is capable of executing other gaits that are natural to horses, including the relaxed walk, the canter and the gallop.
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At show the Paso gait is performed at three forward speeds, the rider should appear virtually motionless in the saddle, and there should be no perceptible up and down motion of the horse’s croup.
