are known for their friendly nature, lively temperament, and especially for their five gaits (walk, trot, tölt, canter, and pace). They are hardy and robust. They have thick coats that protect them from the cold and allow them to spend winters outdoors.
Icelandic horses fully mature at seven years old and live long lives (35 to 40 years); they can be ridden until they are 30 years of age. Icelandic horses are considered small horses. Despite their smaller stature, they are very hardy and can easily carry an adult man, or one-third of their weight (they weigh between 300 and 400 kg, and stand 130-145 cm at the withers). The ancient Icelandic Vikings, who bred this particular horse, were relentless warriors. Even today, these horses are used for various purposes, although the Icelandic horse is primarily a sport and recreational horse.
Icelandic horses love winters – that’s when nature gives them a thick, multi-layered long coat that reliably protects them from the harshest cold. Their mane and tail are incredibly thick and full. Their strong hooves are protected by long winter hair that covers the fetlocks (horse’s ankle) and the hoof almost to the ground.
Icelandic horses live outdoors (there is no bad weather for them) and in herds. And because they live outdoors all the time, movement in nature is self-evident for them, and outdoor sounds, sights, and smells rarely disturb or frighten them; this is an important characteristic for a horse used for long rides in the wilderness, where you need a hardy, confident, reliable equine friend with an infallible sense of direction.