Icelandic Horse Horse Breed Guide
Origin: Iceland
The Icelandic Horse is a sturdy, agile breed renowned for its unique five gaits, including the smooth tölt. They are friendly, versatile, and make excellent companions for riders of all experience levels.
| Breed | Icelandic Horse |
| Type | Gaited |
| Height | 52 - 56 hh |
| Weight | 790 - 880 lbs |
| Lifespan | 25 - 30 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, Spirited, Calm |
| Energy Level | High |
| Beginner Friendly | Yes |
| Good for Families | Yes |
| Care Level | Low |
| Disciplines | Gaited Riding, Trail Riding |
Overview
The Icelandic Horse is celebrated for its distinctive five gaits, offering an exceptionally smooth ride thanks to its unique tölt and flying pace. Despite their smaller stature, these horses are incredibly strong, hardy, and possess a calm yet spirited temperament. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of activities, from competitive gaited events to leisurely trail riding, appealing to a broad spectrum of equestrians.
History and Origin
With a history tracing back to the Viking settlements in Iceland over a thousand years ago, the Icelandic Horse is one of the purest and oldest horse breeds. Laws preventing the importation of other horses have preserved their genetic purity, preventing disease and maintaining their unique characteristics. They have played a vital role in Icelandic culture and transportation, valued for their hardiness and ability to navigate rough terrain.
Size and Appearance
Height
52 - 56 hands (hh)
Weight
790 - 880 lbs (359 - 400 kg)
Coat: Double-layered, thick winter coat offering excellent insulation against cold weather.
Temperament
For Beginners
Icelandic Horse horses are suitable for beginner riders with proper instruction.
For Families
Icelandic Horse horses can be wonderful family horses when properly trained.
Disciplines and Best Uses
Trainability: ●●●●○ Very Good
Health Problems
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Lifespan
The average Icelandic Horse lifespan is 25-30 years with good care, nutrition, and veterinary management.
Purchase Price and Annual Costs
Purchase Price
USD depending on age, training, and bloodlines
Annual Upkeep
USD per year covering board, feed, farrier, and vet care
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gaited riders
- Trail enthusiasts
- Family riders
- Suitable for beginner riders
Cons
- High-level jumpers
- Competitive speed racers
Icelandic Horse vs Other Breeds
Icelandic Horse wins at
versatility in extreme climates and rugged terrain
Tennessee Walking Horse wins at
recognized show gaits and a taller stature
Icelandic Horse wins at
possessing a full five distinct gaits
Haflinger wins at
strength for driving and light draft work
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Icelandic Horses unique?
Their primary distinguishing feature is the presence of five distinct gaits: walk, trot, canter, tölt, and the flying pace (skeið), unlike most horses which have three or four.
Are Icelandic Horses good for beginners?
Yes, their calm temperament, intelligence, and incredibly smooth gaits, particularly the tölt, often make them highly suitable and comfortable for novice riders.
Can Icelandic Horses live in cold climates?
Absolutely. Icelandic Horses are exceptionally hardy and possess a dense, double-layered winter coat that allows them to thrive in very cold and harsh weather conditions.
What are the 'tölt' and 'flying pace'?
The tölt is a four-beat lateral gait, known for its incredible smoothness, allowing a rider to sit comfortably. The flying pace is a fast, two-beat lateral gait, typically ridden at speed and often seen in racing.
Do Icelandic Horses compete?
Yes, they compete in a variety of disciplines, most notably in gaited classes where their unique gaits are judged, as well as in trail riding and endurance events.
Final Verdict
The Icelandic Horse is a solid choice for riders of all experience levels. With a lifespan of 25-30 years and high energy, it excels in Gaited Riding and Trail Riding.