North American Single-Footing Horse
North American Single-Footing Horse is a breed of unique, medium-sized, lightweight equines that originated in the United States. These horses, alternatively called the Single-Footing Horses, with their intermediate ambling gait, are popular among avid trail enthusiasts. Known for their surefootedness, the Single-Footers can cover grounds quickly in the open.
North American Single Footing Horse Pictures
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- North American Single Footing Horse Foal
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- North American Single Footing Horse Mare
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- North American Single Footing Horse Pictures
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- North American Single Footing Horse Running
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- North American Single Footing Horse
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- North American Single Footing Horses
Quick Information
| Temperament/Personality | Spirited, gentle, obedient, willing, kind |
| Physical Characteristics | Well-shaped head, straight profile; muscular, slightly arched neck; sloping shoulders, well-defined withers, correct conformation of legs |
| Colors | Palomino, chestnut, gray, buckskin, bay |
| Height (size) | Averaging 15-16 hands (152-163 cm, 60-64 inches) |
| Common Uses | Trail riding including competition, working, and pleasure trails |
| Health | No known breed-specific equine diseases |
| Gaited | Yes, has an intermediate 4-beat movement |
| Popular Traits | Good conformation, pleasant disposition, smooth and evenly timed gaits |
| Feeding/Diet | Grass, hay, grains, shrubs |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Ancestors | Standardbreds, American Saddlebreds, Spanish horses, and gaited breeds |
| Breed Information | Single-Footing Horse Owners’ and Breeders’ Association (SHOBA) and North American Single-Footing Horse Association (NASHA) Breed Standards |
Video: Single-Footing Horse Gait
History and Development
The exact time or year of development of North American Single-Footing Horse is unclear. Nevertheless, these horses evolved as a result of selective breeding that involved crosses from different gaited breeds exhibiting the ability to single-foot. The breeding stock included combinations of Standardbred contributing to its speed at gait, as well as the Spanish gaited horses, the Saddlebred, and other gaited stocks adding refinement, beauty, and flexibility.
Traditionally bred for riding on trails and work, the Single-Footers have remained true to their heritage. Several distinct lines have been produced through years of careful breeding. These include descendants of EZD Falcon Rowdy, the Trigger line, the Bayou-Traveler line, and horses with Paso Fino stallions in their pedigrees. Currently, two registries including the SHOBA and the NASHA maintain and promote the breed. Since its foundation, NASHA has registered over 900 horses.
Interesting Facts
- The Single-Footers are capable of performing smooth riding gaits at speeds ranging from 5 to 20 miles/hour or more.
- To maintain registration, these horses must be fitted with plain keg shoes.
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